After months of preparation, scouting, and anticipation, the 2025 hunting season has been nothing short of exciting. With the second big buck down, the hunt is far from over. As the final days of the season approach, my team and I are strategizing our moves for the last 11 days of hunting, determined to finish strong.
The first big buck we took down early in the season was a massive 10-point that I’ll never forget. But it wasn’t long before I set my sights on another mature buck—a giant 8-point with a heavy rack that had been showing up regularly on my trail cameras. This second buck proved to be an incredible challenge. He was elusive and smart, often moving at night or during the early morning hours. I knew I needed a new approach if I wanted to harvest him.
After reviewing the data from the cameras and scouting the land, I realized this buck was spending most of his time near a ridge with thick cover that provided perfect concealment. With that information, I set up a stand in an area with clear shooting lanes, while making sure to take advantage of the wind and remain undetected.
It wasn’t long before I spotted him. The buck came in at just the right time, moving steadily through the timber and heading toward my stand. At 30 yards, I drew my bow, steadying my shot. The arrow flew true, and the impact was solid. After a brief sprint, he dropped in sight. My second big buck of the season was down, and the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming.
But the season isn’t over yet. With just 11 days left, we’re refining our tactics. The rut is still in full swing, and the cold weather is pushing the deer to feed heavily before the winter sets in. We’re taking advantage of this prime time, focusing on food sources and funnel areas where bucks are likely to be moving.
We’re hunting with a heightened sense of urgency. The final days are crucial, and we’re using every tool at our disposal—scouting, rattling, and setting up in strategic locations. As we push forward into these last 11 days, we’re more determined than ever to end the season with another successful harvest. The thrill of the chase and the challenge of the hunt never gets old, and we’re ready for whatever the final stretch of the season brings.
