I went to hunt my homemade ground blind this weekend on a very windy afternoon here in Ky. I arrived about 330 and started getting all set up. While I was setting up and not paying attention I had a big doe walk in on me unknown to me. She came within 3 yds and I did not have a clue she was there. I really don't know who it scared worse when we seen each other but I did finally hear her as she ran off. It was very exciting. This is not how the story ends though. I sat there the rest of the afternoon on pins and needles really watching. It was pretty dead probably due to the roaring wind. Well with about 20 minutes of light left she came back. I'm pretty sure it was her because as soon as she stepped in the clearing she was looking right at me. I never moved and she calmed down and started eating acorns. I waited about 30 seconds and decided it was time to make my move. I picked my spot then started my draw. I got halfway through it and her head jerked up, she snorted and ran. As soon as she did another big doe ran up where she was standing and stopped and watched her. I came to full draw and picked my spot. Then it seemed like everything went in slow motion. I released and the arrow looked like it was heading perfect. Upon release this doe went from dead broadside to facing me. It was almost like she sidestepped my arrow. I could not help but laugh for she made me feel foolish for taking a shot at an alerted deer. I was just happy I didn't hit her bad. I wished her good luck this season and gathered my stuff and went home. I learned a valuable lesson about shots at alerted deer. I already knew it but I thought I'd get away with it since she wasn't the spooked deer. I am starting to see why so many of y'all like the ground game. The adrenalin rush when they are at eye level is no comparison to being in a tree. Sorry for rambling just wanted to tell my story.

I had nearly the same experience Friday evening, except mine ran off and didn't come back!
Still, it sounded like you had an exciting evening.

it really is exciting to be at ground level with them.  I enjoyed your story.  Good luck as your season progresses!

Bernie Bjorklund

NC Iowa/SW Wisconsin

Great story, and I feel your pain!

its amazing how fast they can move.

Yes it truly is. I always get a good laugh when a compound shooter tells me a deer can't get out of the way of his bow because it's so fast. I just chuckle and say to myself this guy has not got a clue just how fast these critters are.