If it's any consolation (and I know it isn't) your post made me feel a little (very little) bit better about my season so far.

I can't go into details (too painful), but I would love to have the opportunities that you have had. My opportunities are few and far between, even for small bucks... and I've messed the only two I had up... BIG TIME.

I was seriously thinking of giving up hunting altogether.

Maybe I'll go out this afternoon.

THANKS! (and better luck in the future)

Ahhhhh yes.  I too love this thread because I feel normal.  Same situations but much smaller bucks.

Wow, all up hill from here Brother. Hang on!

I know it bites when you miss opportunities, and make less than perfect shots...that really sucks, but it is part of hunting. I have always thanked God for every awesome encounter in the deer woods, be it ending with a shot or not...it is still something that non hunters will never get to do, and only hunters can understand...just be thankful for the encounter and the opportunity. you will all be rewarded for your persistence and dedication...after all, traditional hunters are the elite of the elite when it comes to hunters...always have been in my eyes, and after being a part of this forum for a couple of days, you guys are that and so much more, on so many levels! the forest seal team six! keep at it and you will get it done. never give up and you will never fail.

Wow I thought I was by myself after not seeing a little branch and then giving a heavy horned 5x5 a quick hair cut at less than ten yards. But it was one of the coolest hunts I've had. Never seen a deer come in so hard and fast during a rattling sequence. Still getting schooled after all these years.

Finally bagged a doe fawn this morning, better than watching young bucks walking by. Trying to be a trophy hunter but shooting is way too much fun.

I should move, I have not seen a decent buck in three years.

ya that's not the best vacation ever.  but, It was good hunting anyway.

I hunt Illinois and last week I missed one of the biggest bucks I have ever seen.

He was within twenty yards doing his thing around a scrape. The best I can tell is I hit a small branch where the arrow just went over his back.

I hunted him for another week solid all day long and never saw him again.

You guys make me feel better for sure, man it's tough business. I ran into a guy from New York or Pa.

He used to be a die hard trad guy, he told me that recurve is gonna break you heart.

So very true

Sounds like you are having an exciting season. Yes it's heartbreaking but also heart racing!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good hunting by the way. It seems you know your stuff