Iowa has long been known for producing some of the biggest whitetail bucks in North America, but this hunt was something truly special. The team at The Last Whitetail Season 7 (TLWS7) had an unforgettable encounter with the biggest-bodied buck they had ever seen. Using an aggressive decoying strategy, they were able to bring in a true Iowa giant for an up-close and heart-pounding experience.
The Setup: Decoying a Dominant Buck
The late-season rut was winding down, but mature bucks were still on the lookout for one last breeding opportunity. The TLWS7 team had been watching a particular area where a massive-bodied buck had been spotted multiple times. This deer wasn’t just big in antler size—his sheer body mass made him stand out even among Iowa’s legendary giants.
With a cold front pushing through, the conditions were perfect for an aggressive setup. The team placed a full-body buck decoy in an open feeding area where the dominant buck had been traveling. The hope was to trigger his territorial instincts and bring him in close for a shot.
The Encounter: A Battle for Dominance
Just before sunset, movement in the timber caught their attention. A group of does entered the field first, followed by a few younger bucks. Then, heavy footsteps echoed from the woods. The giant-bodied buck had arrived.
Seeing the decoy, the massive buck bristled up immediately. His ears pinned back, and his posture changed—he was ready for a fight. Slowly, he closed the distance, stiff-legged and brimming with aggression. At just 20 yards, he stopped, sizing up the decoy. That’s when the hunter drew his bow, took a deep breath, and let the arrow fly.
Biggest Buck Down!
The shot was perfect—double lung. The buck whirled, ran 50 yards, and collapsed. As the team approached, the true size of this Iowa monarch became clear. His body was enormous, easily pushing 300 pounds on the hoof, with a thick-necked frame that made him look even more impressive.
This hunt was a testament to the power of decoying and understanding mature buck behavior. The TLWS7 crew had successfully taken down their biggest-bodied buck ever, creating a moment they will never forget. Iowa continues to prove why it’s the ultimate destination for serious whitetail hunters, and this hunt was another incredible chapter in that legacy.
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