Every mule deer hunter dreams of that perfect moment—spotting not just one, but two massive bucks in the same hunt. It’s a rare opportunity that requires patience, skill, and a little bit of luck. This is the story of an unforgettable hunt where two giant mule deer bucks made their way into the crosshairs.
The First Buck
The day started early, with glassing from a high ridge as the sun painted the valley below. Mule deer were moving through the sage-covered terrain, but nothing stood out at first. Then, movement on a distant slope caught my eye. A heavy-racked buck was feeding near a patch of junipers. Even from over a mile away, his antlers were unmistakable—this was a shooter.
The stalk began immediately. The wind was in my favor, and I used the rolling hills to stay out of sight. After a careful approach, I found myself within 250 yards. The buck was still feeding, unaware of my presence. I steadied my rifle, took a deep breath, and squeezed the trigger. The shot was perfect. The buck staggered a few steps before collapsing. My first giant mule deer of the hunt was down.
The Unexpected Second Buck
With the first buck on the ground, I began the work of field dressing and preparing for the pack-out. That’s when I heard movement in the brush nearby. I slowly lifted my binoculars and couldn’t believe what I saw—another huge mule deer, even bigger than the first, standing just 300 yards away!
I quickly got into position, but this buck was alert. He had likely heard the earlier shot and was on edge. He took a few cautious steps forward, giving me a brief window of opportunity. I didn’t hesitate. The rifle barked, and the buck dropped in his tracks. Two massive mule deer bucks in one hunt—something I never imagined possible.
The Pack-Out and Reflection
Packing out one big mule deer is hard work. Packing out two is a true test of endurance. The hike back was brutal, but every step was worth it. As I looked at the antlers of both bucks, I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime hunt.
Hunting is unpredictable, and sometimes, the best moments come when you least expect them. This hunt was a reminder that patience, preparation, and a little bit of luck can lead to an experience you’ll never forget.
