Jonny’s Northwoods Nine Point
Whitetail hunting isn’t just a pastime—it’s a tradition, a challenge, and often, a profound personal experience. On November 2nd, Jonny out for his first hunt of the season, hoping to connect with a mature buck. The hunt became a test of patience, skill, and determination, culminating in a recovery story that highlights the resilience of both him and the buck.
A Promising Start
It was early November, a prime time for whitetail hunting as the rut began to heat up. Bucks were starting to chase does, making for an exciting evening in the stand. With reports of a few decent bucks frequenting the area, expectations were high. Set up in a tree stand, armed with a bow, and self-filming the entire hunt (for the first time ever!), Jonny was ready for whatever the evening had to offer.
As the evening progressed, the woods came alive with activity. A young six-pointer hung around, keeping does and fawns on edge. But the real action began just before dusk, when the target buck made his appearance.
The Shot and the Wait
The buck stepped out, moving in broadside at a range perfect for an ethical shot. Jonny waited for the right moment, aware of the many eyes and ears in the surrounding woods. When the opportunity came, he drew back, accounted for the buck's likely reaction to the shot, and released. The arrow struck true, but something felt slightly off.
Despite a good blood trail, Jonny didn’t hear the telltale crash of a mortally wounded deer. He backed out, giving the buck time.
A Sleepless Night and a Second Effort
That evening, the decision to leave the blood trail weighed heavily. Reviewing the footage revealed a low hit, possibly a one-lung shot—lethal but not immediately fatal. Backing out was the right call, but it was a restless night for Jonny.
The next morning, the tracking resumed. Blood sign was solid at first but soon became faint. Hours passed as they followed the trail through challenging terrain, determined to find the buck. The search took them to a river crossing, a point where hope wavered. Was the deer lost, or had he crossed?
Recovery and Reflection
Persistence paid off. On the far bank, not far from the crossing, the buck lay in his final resting place. Relief and gratitude replaced the anxiety of the long pursuit. Jonny’s Dad was there for the recovery, making the moment even more special—a reminder of the bonds created and strengthened through shared hunting experience.
Reflecting on the hunt, Jonny acknowledged how close it all was. A few inches higher, and the story would’ve ended quickly. But hunting, like life, often comes down to inches. The experience reaffirmed the importance of patience, preparation, and respect for the animals pursued.
A Lesson for Every Hunter
This hunt was more than a notch in the tag—it was a story of persistence, respect, and the deep connection hunters have with the natural world. For whitetail hunters, moments like these are why we return to the woods, season after season.
