In the world of big-game hunting, few experiences compare to the heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping moment of having a giant mule deer step within arm’s reach. In L2H S08E09 “Face to Face,” viewers were treated to an unforgettable moment as a 200-inch archery mule deer stepped to just 6 yards away from the hunter—a truly rare and exhilarating encounter.
The episode begins with the team preparing for what would be one of their most intense hunts of the season. Mule deer, known for their cautious nature and keen senses, can be incredibly difficult to hunt, especially with a bow. The hunt was set in the vast, rugged terrain of the western United States, where dense brush and high, open plains create a challenging environment for even the most experienced hunters. The team had been tracking this giant buck for days, carefully observing its movements and habits, trying to predict where it would appear.
After hours of patience and strategy, the hunter found himself in a perfect position. The wind was in his favor, and the deer had moved into a clearing. Then, as if time slowed down, the massive 200-inch mule deer appeared. The hunter’s heart raced as the deer slowly approached, unaware of the hunter’s presence. At just 6 yards, the buck was in the hunter’s ideal range, but the situation was also a test of nerves and control.
The hunter had to remain still and composed, knowing that one wrong move could alert the deer and end the hunt. The 200-inch mule deer stood there, a giant in full view, its massive antlers towering above the surrounding brush. The encounter was intense, with the hunter barely able to breathe, focusing all his energy on the task at hand.

With a smooth draw and steady hand, the hunter released the arrow. The shot was true, and the massive mule deer took off into the brush. After a tense tracking session, the team found the deer—its trophy-sized antlers and sheer size were a testament to the hunter’s patience, skill, and the thrilling nature of bowhunting.
The hunt for the 200-inch mule deer at just 6 yards in L2H S08E09 “Face to Face” will go down as one of the most memorable moments in the series. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, the best moments in hunting come when you least expect them—when the deer are right in front of you, and the thrill of the chase reaches its peak.
