Hunter: Chance Smith
Points: 11 (5L, 6R)
County: Warren
Season: 2018-2019
Hunt Story
We were trying to sneak in a Friday afternoon hunt. The plan was to meet up with the guys at hunting camp for supper. It worked out that we were able to get our gear loaded and headed toward camp. We had just enough time to squeeze in a hunt on the way and decided on the "Tripod Stand" near camp. We parked the truck at the gate, crossed the dirt road, and snuck in the back way to our stand. This stand was recently placed and had not been hunted in this season. We climbed into the stand around 5:40 p.m. As we settled in, we were thinking that this was going to be a good evening to see some deer move. We had been in the stand for a little more than 10 minutes when a deer was spotted coming toward us on the left. We could see horns, and we immediately knew this was a shooter. After waiting for the deer to clear some brush and cedar trees, the buck stopped in front of us at 60 yards. He was looking the other way while a discussion in the stand took place deciding on if a clear shot could be made. When we decided that a good shot could be taken, the O.K. was given. "Shoot when ready." A loud crack sent the buck racing across the clearcut to the edge butting up to some short planted pines. The large buck was looking in our direction trying to determine where the shot was fired. The direction was given to shoot again, and another shot rang out. The buck whirled to his left into the planted pines breaking limbs. We waited about 10 minutes and headed to the truck to get some backup and track down the buck. Camp was called, and our friend and family came to help us track the deer. No blood or hair was located at the initial shooting site. Also, none where found where the buck was standing on the edge of the clearcut. Walking into the pine thicket doubts started creeping in. Talk of a tracking dog started and the lack of blood was causing concern. Leaning down looking through the pines revealed the buck laying 15 yards from where he entered. What a great day! The buck of a lifetime. The statement "What a pig" rang out and some explaining had to take place to the younger brother as to the meaning. The first shot on the deer was perfectly placed through the vitals on the right side. The second shot hit high in the neck near the head as the deer was facing us. Calm under pressure. Well at least Chance was. We are blessed.
