In the world of bowhunting, encountering a big timber buck is the ultimate goal for many hunters. Bill Winke, in his “Bowhunting Whitetails” series, recounts the thrilling experience of hunting a mature whitetail during its cruising phase, a time when bucks are on the move, searching for does and establishing dominance. This particular hunt, known as the “Big Timber Buck” encounter, showcases the excitement and unpredictability of bowhunting big timber bucks during the rut.
Winke’s story centers around hunting in dense timber, where mature bucks are often found traveling through thick cover during the rut. These bucks are not always easy to spot, as they tend to move quietly, using their keen instincts to avoid detection. Winke, however, had studied the area and knew that bucks, particularly big timber bucks, would often follow specific routes, weaving through the trees as they searched for does or checked scrapes and rubs. The key to success in this situation was positioning—finding the perfect stand location where a cruising buck would be within range.
The excitement of cruising buck action lies in the unpredictability. Bucks during the rut are often less cautious than at other times of the year, as their drive to find mates overtakes their wariness of predators. Winke describes how, during his hunt, he observed a large, mature buck cruising through the timber, moving steadily in search of a doe. He had positioned himself in an area where he knew the buck was likely to pass, but the challenge remained: would the buck make a mistake and come within bow range?
Winke’s patience paid off when, after hours of waiting, the big timber buck finally appeared. The buck moved confidently through the woods, unaware of Winke’s presence. It wasn’t long before the buck passed into range, and Winke made a perfect shot. The buck, a true trophy, had been successfully harvested during the prime cruising phase of the rut.
This hunt exemplifies the power of timing, patience, and understanding of whitetail behavior. Cruising bucks are one of the most exciting aspects of the rut, and Winke’s experience with the Big Timber Buck reminds hunters that success often hinges on preparation, precise positioning, and waiting for the right moment. For bowhunters, the thrill of the chase is amplified when a mature buck unexpectedly appears during this high-stakes phase, making every hunt an adventure full of anticipation.
