But that encounter had closed the circle on the 3x3, as I'd now seen him three straight days traveling through the same area. Hopefully, it would only be a matter of time before we met again.
As the two bucks meandered back uphill that very evening, I was there waiting for them. I couldn't have written it up any better, with this velvet-antlered buck leading the way.

Gary, congrats to both you and dale on fine animals, the story and pics were great! How far was your shot?

       

What a buck!!!!  Love the velvet too!

Congrats to you both for on a great hunt!

Great stuff Gary!  Congrats to both you and Dale - I'd been wondering how you did.  Looks like you had a heck of a trip!  
Dale's hat does help, but can't cover up those white socks and loafers!      :eek:    

After I'd shot this buck, I decided to leave him overnight because I thought the hit was a bit low and back. It turns out we found him right where I had seen him last as evening light faded away.
 I think I got maybe three hours of sleep that night worrying about and re-playing the shot over and over. While laying there, this thought occurred to me. "People that make good shots sleep better at night." Most of us have been there at one time or another, and things generally work out the way they're meant to. But in the lonely darkness on a sleepless night, that's of little consolation.
The tag-punching, photography and packing out were accomplished the next morning, with only a brief overnight visit from the coyotes.
Thanks to all for tagging along.

   

Thanks for the compliments and congratulations,everyone.
Rafael, the buck walked right into me. The shot was 14 or 15 yards and he went about 80 yards after the hit.

Awesome, nice work guys

thats awesome!! way to go brother.

Congrats

Awesome, nice work guys

Excellent hunt thanks for sharing!

Very well to you both congrats. I am bummed I could not stop by and see you both.

congrats to you both GOOD JOB !

Wow, congrats to both of you. I hope Dale was up every morning making you breakfast and had a nice hot dinner for you when you got back to camp.

Congrats, beautiful animals.

Very nice,congrats and thank for sharing.

good stuff indeed,  thanks for the story & photos.

Very nice, great hunt.

Great hunting!  Congrats on the hunt!