Note to self

[maineac]

Don't talk to deer before you release an arrow.  Last night I had a doe come down the trail I had my ground blind set up on.  She was walking at a steady pace, Definitely going somewhere.  She had passed through two of my three shooting lanes.  I was drawn and anchored.  She was walking through the third, but since it was only about ten inches wide I didn't want to release as she walked, thought I might follow through and hit a branch.  I gave a soft bleat. she stopped at 13 yards and looked at me as I released looking at a spot between two ribs. The arrow looked perfect.  She bolted and I could see the arrow flying beyond her.  I thought it was kind of funny how high and fast the arrow was still moving.  As I replayed the scene I realized I had not heard the sound of a hit.  When I checked 20 minutes later I could find no hair or blood.  I couldn't find the arrow, even though I saw it in the air beyond her and had a line of flight.  She must of dropped as she bolted, just as the arrow passed.  It happened so fast I barely saw it.

It was beautiful night and great to have had a plan I formulated in March when I picked the spot pan out in the first sit.  After she went by her two little ones followed.  They were still pretty small, so I am actually glad I missed.   September will have to be bucks only to let the lambs get a bit bigger.

[Bernie B.]

Some of those fawns still are pretty small.  Probably not a bad idea to let some of the does walk.  It's a special moment when you're hunting from the ground and a shot presents itself.  Good luck with the rest of your season!    

Bernie Bjorklund

NC Iowa/SW Wisconsin

[CoilSpring]

Great story Micheal,
And thanks for the advice...I still have a month before ours opens.  I missed a 4pt last year at a mere 8 yards (over the back ) - the only shot I got last fall.

I wish you many more oportunities this season.
God Bless,

[joe ashton]

I have heard that you can stop a deer with a burp.. but then I think you now have an alert, edgy deer looking for something.  Not a good combo for a "slow" longbow.... IMO