The 2023 hunting season in Iowa became a legendary chapter for one dedicated bowhunter who not only bagged a massive 161-inch buck but also captured the entire hunt on film. This self-filmed bow kill on Iowa’s public land proved to be an unforgettable experience—combining skill, strategy, and technology in a way that made this achievement even more rewarding.
The hunter, a seasoned bowhunter, had spent years hunting Iowa’s public land, learning its intricacies and tracking its deer population. The state’s renowned whitetail deer population, with its massive racks and challenging terrain, made it a dream destination for hunters looking to test their mettle. The hunter had scouted the area extensively in the months leading up to the season, studying the land’s deer trails, bedding areas, and feeding grounds to pinpoint where the biggest bucks were likely to be. The anticipation was high as the rut approached.
As the season kicked off, the hunter set up his self-filming equipment—a GoPro, a DSLR camera, and a steady hand to ensure that every moment would be captured in detail. It’s one thing to hunt a trophy buck, but the added challenge of filming your own hunt adds a unique layer of difficulty. Despite the early season’s slow start, the hunter remained patient, knowing that when the rut hit, the action would increase, and big bucks would start moving.
On a crisp autumn morning, that moment finally arrived. The hunter settled into his stand and began to wait for the day’s action. After a few hours of seeing smaller bucks and does, he heard the unmistakable sound of antlers rubbing against trees and the gentle rustle of leaves. Looking to his left, the hunter spotted a massive 161-inch buck coming in from the timber. The sheer size of the buck’s antlers, its broad spread, and thick tines left the hunter in awe. This was the moment he had been preparing for.
With the self-filming camera rolling, the hunter carefully drew his bow, keeping his movements slow and deliberate. The buck moved closer, stopping just 20 yards away. The hunter released the arrow, and the shot was perfect. The arrow found its mark, and the massive buck bolted off into the woods, only to collapse within sight.
The thrill of landing such a trophy buck on public land was made even more special by the fact that the entire hunt had been captured on film. The 161-inch Iowa giant became a symbol of the hunter’s patience, preparation, and dedication. This self-filmed bow kill was not just about the size of the buck—it was about an incredible achievement and a moment that would be relived every time the footage was played.
