21/10/2026
Lessons from a successful 7 yard whitetail hunt and shot:
1. Cover surrounding this elevated set up saved my hunt. I was only elevated 6 feet, yet the autumn olive brush in front of me enabled me to get into position for a weak side shot.
2. Micro-thermals made a difference. The gentle slope of the landscape and a small pond below + behind me allowed my scent to drift behind me to secure a close shot opportunity.
3. Don’t quit! I started to check out in the last few minutes of legal light because the deer were held up feeding at 40 yards, but the shot opportunity came in the last minute of legal shooting light.
4. This was the latest shot opportunity I’ve ever taken. With minimal visibility, I found there was an instinctive component to my shooting - relying on controlled mechanics and feel built through practice and time with a traditional bow.
5. Choose the spot, not the tree. The “X” I needed to be on only offered a leaning poplar tree, but I made it work with my saddle and it rewarded a 7 yard shot. No other tree or ground set up would have provided this opportunity.
6. I’m grateful I practiced shooting through gaps in the brush during pre-season. My shot opportunity was through a small window in the autumn olive brush.
7. The true test for me as an archery hunter is how close I can get.
8. Last and most importantly, I need to pursue the Creator more intensely than I pursue the creation. God teaches, molds, and leads if I’m willing to listen and follow.