Nov 6th Archery buck IL public land

[JoeRE]

Wow, what are the odds. That is a rough hand you got dealt that day!

[rizzo999]

I did speak with one of the COs in that area the next day. He told me the best way to have gotten the other buck (the one I friggin shot!) is if I could have proved that I shot it. Basically, I would have had to present evidence of a blood trail from where I shot it on public ground to the gut pile and subsequent drag marks in the leaves leading to the private land. I also used my buddy's Skypoint cam that day which would have provided visual evidence that I shot the buck. Unfortunately, the CO did end the conversation stating that it possibly would have been my word against theirs if they did not have the buck in their possession.

Good news is that I know know where numerous buck beds are located in this rather hilly terrain. Can't wait to get back out there next year!

Thanks for the kind words everyone! Mike

[365buckin]

I've never heard a story like that before. WTF! Bad thing is that even if you got the warden to go check things out, their clients were probably already on their way back to whatever state they came from. I can't tell you when, or where, but it seems like I have heard other negative stories about this outfitter before too. Keep an eye on their website. Maybe they will eventually post the 2014 success pictures. But there is a good chance that it was their clients who pulled the switcheroo and they may not have had anything to do with it. I just dont get it, even if my buck was smaller, I would still want my buck. Its a pride thing. I cant be proud of a buck that someone else shot. Why would they do that? Sorry man. Now you have one conversation rack that for sure. Cant wait to tell my buddies about this outfitter that ryhmes with "Sadly Weak." Hahahaha

[Lockdown]

WHOA... I think I would have came unglued. You definitely handled yourself well in an extremely tough situation! I can't imagine... ... all I can say is I hope you shoot a stomper next year as soon as he jumps the fence off their property!

[Florida]

You did the noble thing. Definitely worth it in the long run. Maddening though.

[ Post made via Android ]

[Brett]

Thats crazy. Either way nice work!

[keb]

wow, sorry to hear that.

My hats off to you for taking that buck and the meat and it did not go to waste.

[ Post made via iPad ]

[SRWbowhunter]

Man I hate people that do things like that. I would have been so mad if somebody took my buck like that. Hunting should be about having fun if that hunter wasn't happy with the 8 point he shouldn't have shot it not ruin someone else's day by taking their deer.

[ Post made via iPhone ]

[TJS]

Some people's kids....