My First Archery Buck

By Trevor Speaker - 10/31/2024

The night before the hunt on October 29th, my cousin Mike and I were deep in discussion about which stands we'd sit in for the next morning. Initially, I was planning to sit in a newer stand while Mike was set on hunting from one we call the Double Decker. As we finalized our plans, Mike turned to me and said, "You know what? I think you should take the Double Decker tomorrow, and I'll sit in the Northwestern." His offer took me by surprise. "Are you sure?" I asked. But he insisted, and that small decision would set the stage for an unforgettable hunt.

The morning of October 30th began like any other hunting day, with a quick scent-free shower and a big cup of coffee...thanks to Mike, who always has the coffee ready. We loaded up the truck and drove to our hunting property, quietly preparing for the day ahead.

After gearing up, we parted ways in the woods, me heading to the Double Decker and Mike setting up about 80 yards away to my left in a stand called the Northwestern.

The forest was calm and still as the first light broke. A heavy fog blanketed the ground, giving the woods an ethereal feel. The deer movement was slow that morning, with only a couple of young bucks spotted in the distance, chasing does. It was nearing 8:00 a.m. when I heard something to my right - a faint rustle that made me slowly turn my head.

Out of the fog emerged a magnificent deer, moving steadily in my direction. As it approached, I realized it wasn't just any deer...it was a striking piebald buck with a beautiful rack. My heart raced as I prepared for the shot. I pulled back my bow, but to my horror, my safety strap got in the way. Thinking quickly, I ducked beneath the strap, repositioning myself just as the buck moved behind a tree.

The moment the buck stepped into an opening, I released my arrow. My adrenaline was through the roof, and as I watched the Annihilator Broadhead fly true, the buck dropped in its tracks. I was shaking so hard I could barely believe what had just happened.

I immediately texted Mike, who called me in pure disbelief. He quickly made his way over, and we celebrated together - a shared moment of pure joy and excitement. That morning, I harvested my first archery buck, a piebald beauty, and solidified one of my favorite hunting memories of all time.

This hunt wouldn't have been possible without the right gear, a bit of luck, and, most importantly, the support of Mike, Sean, and Janet for making it all come together. Thank you to Annihilator Broadheads for their incredible performance and to everyone who played a part in this milestone.

What a day! One I'll never forget.