2009.10.28
Wild Life regular Ralph Barton scores with his bow
I've been preaching since I launched this blog that I wanted any and all hero shots -- not just of trophy bucks. A hunt isn't just defined by antler inches, but what goes into the hunt and what the hunter gets out of it -- beyond the actual animal. It's why I post shots of myself with does and I'm always glad when others submit the same.
Anyway, regular Ralph Barton came through with this shot of his great doe from a recent hunt on public land. After Ralph smacked the doe at 18 yards it ran just 40 yards before crashing. It's a long walk out but he had stashed a game cart in there so it wasn't as bad as it could have been.
I wish I could post a shot of me with a nice doe but I haven't been hunting since the first week of the season. Tonight wouldn't be a bad night but I have an assignment. But, looking at my schedule, my non-hunting streak might end tomorrow. It's a little warmer than I'd prefer but I've got to take the opening when I get it. I hope I get some openings next week because it looks like a nice cold front is coming.
Any deer on public land is a trophy. I remember from the story Mark did prior to the bow opener that you hunt off the parkway, I spring and fall turkey hunt it alot and if you hunt some of the places I do it's all uphill when you come out. Congrats!
Comment by Jim Basham — October 28, 2009 @ 1:21 pm
Great doe Ralph, she has a long snout on her! Congrats on a great hunt!
Comment by Jason — October 28, 2009 @ 3:12 pm
Well done Ralph. The prize that comes at the end of a hunt in an area that is tough to access is usually that much sweeter. Not to mention, think about all that character you built getting your trophy back to a vehicle. I've had a few such hunts in my experience and there is a great sense of pride when the task is done, but of course I will never turn down a nice downhill drag on a clear path
Good luck on the rest of your season.
Comment by bird_dog07 — October 28, 2009 @ 3:43 pm
That's what I'm talking about Ralph!
Way to go buddy and looking forward to putting the advice you have given me on National Forest deer to work soon. Congradulations and be safe.
Comment by J.R. — October 28, 2009 @ 7:50 pm
Thanks for the comments guys.
I love hunting those mountain areas, it's very peaceful there without people around. And the solitude is a great get-a-way from the hassles of life. Also this last week the fall foilage in the mountains has been very beautiful. I feel so fortunate and blessed to be able to live and hunt in this gorgeous area.
The hunting has been kind of tough this season! There is a lot of mast and the deer aren't moving much to feed. However I did see something VERY encouraging on Monday.... a nice 8 point buck chasing a doe! Yep, he was all over her! That's the first rut activity I have witnessed but it's a good sign. If those bucks are already out looking for love the sightings are definitely going to increase. I'm excited! I'll be back out there again tomorrow looking for old mossy Horns!
Wishing Safe and successful hunting to all of you guys !
Comment by Ralph Barton — October 29, 2009 @ 5:16 am
Way to go Ralph! I have been hesitant to go out hunting since the killings in Jefferson National Forest but I am going to it a try in the coming weeks.
Comment by Static Lines — October 30, 2009 @ 1:56 am