I really don't give much of a rip if I kill a big buck ( not really, but sorta).
Hate to say it, but I feel the same way. If I do it will be with a bow, but if I don’t it’s ok too. I do love getting pics though. Just seeing what’s out there. I killed what I consider a very nice buck a few years ago and it’s like ok, I’m done. Shot a management buck and “need” to shoot some more, but I’m just no longer “obsessed” with it. The thrill of seeing them and then learning them is enough it seems. Like Swamp mentioned in a post, our season opened September 14 and I’ve sat maybe 2 mornings and about 3 evenings. In previous years it would be all day every weekend and about 3-4 evenings during the week.
Instead of wanting “bigger” after what I consider my once in a lifetime buck, I’m satisfied. I’ll still go, and if one of the bigger bucks show up and present a shot I’ll send an arrow, but I’d almost rather put someone who’s put in the time for a big buck on one of the ones I’ve patterned. We’ve got a 6pt that is 225 or more and I’ll definitely need help dragging and loading that joker if I shoot. Got a 9pt that’s almost as heavy as he is. Then I’ve got a couple that “may” hit the 150” mark. I’m afraid if the Split buck isn’t killed this year, next years rack will not be anywhere close if he even lives. He takes the rut seriously and looks rough at the end of season. Heck even though my son just shot a huge buck, I’ve tried to get him to come shoot one of them just to say he’s shot over 300” in a season…he’s like me. Let’s put Zac, CJ, or Kayla on one of them.
I know some don’t understand trail cams and think we have tame deer and that’s ok too. Not everyone understands the actual work that goes into following a particular deer through the years. Killing “a” deer down here is about like shooting squirrels, anyone can do it, even on public land. But, finding that “one” buck that has potential and learning him is a whole different level of hunting. It takes a little skill almost everyone possesses, but what most lack is patience on that release or trigger, lol.
Great pics and deer man, keep posting them!!