Hunter: Mike Jones
Points: 9 (4L, 5R)
County: Gordon
Season: 2015-2016
Hunt Story
This hunt represents a lot of "first" for me! The first hunt on our newly purchased property. The first hunt of 2015 without my hunting partner, my Dad. It was a misty, rainy, wind blowing kind of evening. I got to my stand a little after four o’clock and shortly thereafter saw seven or so does feeding on acorns. After about an hour of watching, I decided to take a doe at 30 yards. About 30 minutes later, I notice a nice buck at 60 yards heading in the opposite direction through the hardwoods. Continuing my focus on this buck I said a quick prayer, "Lord, please send me a buck." Before I could even say Amen I heard a twig snap directly under my stand. I tilted my head down to find another buck standing directly under me. My adrenaline was up as I simply could not believe it! Quickly, I drew back my Hoyt and released in a direct downward motion as he was raising his head. Boy was my heart racing! I had pictures of this deer in another area for two years and was shocked to see him. Afterwards, I waited about an hour before tracking him and called up my buddies Harold and Joan to assist. We didn't have to look far before finding him. I could not have been more thrilled! After my Dad’s unexpectedly passing in May, I have had hesitations about experiencing a lot of first, hunting, being one of them. As I sat in the woods on this Saturday, hunting memories of my dad and brothers came flooding in. Our Dad introduced us to hunting at a very early age and our love for the sport has never wavered. Although a bittersweet "first” without my partner, knowing Dad was with me in spirit the entire hunt — is priceless! I could not be more honored and thrilled to say this one is for you Dad! I love you!
