In years past I have never shied away from preseason preparation. I turned it up a notch this summer, putting out my Moultrie cameras in the first week of June, and giving my herd a steady diet of corn and Big and J feed supplements. From that first 2 week period I noticed two bucks that had potential. I never had bucks on trail cameras worth naming before, so my names are a result of lack of experience as opposed to lack of creativity. A 9 point 3 1/2 year old became "The 9", and a 6 point 4 1/2 year old 8 point became "G2". For the next 90 days I went back and forth on which buck I wanted to put my antlered deer tag on. The 9 may score better, but could really be a stud if he can make it till next season. The problem with that strategy is where I live and hunt. Southeastern Pennsylvania receives a ton of hunting pressure. Combined with population density and major highways close by, these deer have a lot pitfalls to navigate from year to year. The land I hunt is a 8.5 acre rectangle with neighboring tree stands not far from it's boundaries. The 9 would have to beat the odds to see his fourth birthday for sure.
G2 started as a 6 point, growing a set of matching crab claws to complete his mainframe 8 status. The one feature that always stood out was his large G2's that rise well above his rack. He is definitely an older buck, fat bellied with loose skin hanging from his neck. The two bucks bachelor grouped up, appearing in numerous trail cam pictures together. By the time the calendar reached mid September I decided that the first buck that walked into range would receive a dirt nap courtesy of yours truly.
That mindset changed at 7:11pm tonight. With twenty minutes of shooting light left I was glassing in the distance and noticed a lone tine. As the buck continued his assault on various brush and an unlucky pin oak, I realized it was him. G2 was 115 yards to my right, directly down wind. I watched him until the sun faded into the horizon as he thrashed his way violently through the 4' high cover. Never before has the sight of an individual buck consumed me like G2. His high reaching G2's, perfectly symmetrical crab claws, aged white face, and his dominate persona. I was in his woodlot, not mine. I knew than no other deer will satisfy me. For this season to be a success, I have to put my hands on that rack. He never got closer than 100 yards, but I have time. PA's season runs until the end of January. I accept G2's challenge. To out wit a mature buck on his turf on his terms is no easy feat, but believe me, no victory is more rewarding. So take it easy tomorrow and enjoy your Sunday G2, I'll see you Monday night, your place, not mine.
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