Went hunting on our new property for opening day of modern gun season. We’ve leased the property for many years but finally got the option to buy and we jumped because we’ve worked and watched the deer herd all year every year and know what kind of deer it keeps year after year. Lots of giant squirrels to go after also. I’m actually watching a buck on another permission so I went out with the intent of hopefully shooting a doe and spending opening day hunting with my dad. He just retired this year and is getting to hunt more than ever. I normally hunt deer with my powerhouse bulldog but decided to give my new to me aea hp max .357 a shot. I walked in from behind the stand I’d chosen for the day and climbed in to get ready for the challenge of staying awake while watching the tree lines and field for deer. The only thing I dislike about opening weekend for modern gun season is that squirrel are off limits for those two days and of course I see a gazillion both days each year. Pretty sure they have the schedule. As I sit in my stand and play with my phone constantly scanning the areas I’ve seen deer before I see a lone doe walking in front of the tree line to my right at the edge of the field. She’s about 90 yards out when I spot her so I slowly gather up my rifle and get into position while hoping she continues towards me for a sub 50 yard shot. I get my wish but she’s staying just tight enough to the trees to keep me from having an easy shot. I look ahead on her path and see a nice wide shooting lane to take my shot. It’s about 35 yards and downhill 15-20 feet plus the height of the stand. I know where to aim and anxiously wait for my moment. As she steps into the lane I confidently squeeze the trigger and hear the rifle first immediately followed by the unmistakable sound of soft lead on meat impact. I see her front legs go straight and know by her reaction along with the sound of impact that I’d hit my mark. I’m watching her as I cock my rifle for a follow up shot if needed. She slowly walked 8-10 yards before stopping and falling backwards. The excitement and adrenaline all hit at once as I sat in the stand giving time to make sure she’s done. Goal accomplished. Another season with another deer taken by air rifle. I’m lucky in so many ways. 
And now to go after the buck I’ve been studying (dreaming about) with my bulldog. I’ve got two weekends to get it done. A little less stress when you’ve already got meat in the freezer though
And now to go after the buck I’ve been studying (dreaming about) with my bulldog. I’ve got two weekends to get it done. A little less stress when you’ve already got meat in the freezer though
