Well it had been a few years coming but we were able to draw a couple archery antelope tags this year. It seemed as though the antelope felt the effects of a delayed spring green-up as we had a tough time locating the giants that the unit we had was known for producing. We did find and watch a buck that was in the low to mid 90s. He was a very habitual buck never seeming to stray from his daily routine. That was until the late July rains hit. With all that rain, who didn't change their daily habit when those storms hit. Matter of fact, I couldn't even make it out this buck's stomping grounds for several weeks because the roads were impassible. Believe me, I'm not one to be run off by a little mud or running water but after having running water roll over my hood, I tucked my tail between my legs and was forced to scout closer to pavement. Once we were able to return, this buck was not to be found. The hunt itself seem to only have minimal rutting activity. We were able to chase many bucks each day while continuing to look for giant bulls. Of all years, this was the only year I'd been waiting for a chance to sit a waterhole so that my kids could be with me. However, with all the water out there this year, we never honed in on a very active tank so we continued our spot and stalk tactics. Our persistence finally paid off when Joe was able to decoy a buck into me and a 63 yard shot brought down my second archery goat. Not my biggest buck but the one thing I like about archery antelope is any legal buck is a trophy to me!! (He's not picking his nose)
A few days and a few missing arrows later, Joe was able to put his tag on another great goat. Jay and his dad Dick watched this buck chasing does around and they were able to get a hold of us. About 45 minutes later, we arrived and relocated this herd. Fortunately this buck was in lala land with his does and Joe was able to close the gap quick. His 73 yard heart shot brought his goat down after a 30 yard dash.
We were sure grateful to be able to hunt goats together and with several great friends and best of all, we were able to replenish the meat supply in the freezer. Antelope meat does not last long around our house. Now we begin the wait for our next tag, who knows, maybe we'll be back out there next year!!
Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention that during this hunt and while scouting, my boys learned to open the gates on their own. This is a nice treat for mom and dad but it does come with a considerable time delay. Oh well, no arguments here!!
