I might give deer hunting another try this year.

[Johnny]

I'm no longer in a band and have some extra time on my hands. My trail cam is picking up plenty of does. This time, I might try to butcher it myself. I watched some youtube videos and it doesn't look that difficult. My previous (and only deer) I was able to do a good job gutting and cleaning it out, but let a processor to the rest.

Sitting in a freezing brush pile isn't for me. I plan on just walking around. Sometimes, deer will just stop and stare when they see me. Maybe I'll get lucky.

One of these days, I'd like to build a comfortable (and heated) deer stand. For now, I'll just do the stalking thing.

[Klauss]

I’m going to try and take my son for his first deer hunt.

Haven’t been deer hunting in 30 years, should be interesting.

[Johnny]

I’m going to try and take my son for his first deer hunt.

Haven’t been deer hunting in 30 years, should be interesting.

Actually, introducing a new hunter to the sport sounds like an awesome time. Even if you and your son don't score a deer, you'll have plenty of quality time together doing other "guy stuff".

I haven't hunted in 3-4 years and am pretty much a "beginner-level" deer hunter with only a single deer under my belt. So many hunters were illegally baiting that those who weren't, didn't stand a chance. This year, however; we've had a HUGE crop of acorns. The deer are fat and there will be plenty left over during the winter. The guys baiting won't be as effective this year I'm hoping.

Another thing in favor is I already have trails going through my properties so will be able to move much quieter than crashing through the brush. I coordinated with some of the neighbors so we don't get in each others' way and for reasons of safety. We've agreed to allow one another to cross property lines to pursue wounded animals.

I'm not planning on being too serious about the hunt. I'll likely go out no more than a couple hours at a time in the mornings so that if I actually get a deer, I can do the gutting and dragging during hours of daylight.

My trail cam is picking up a good number of deer; no giant bucks and mostly does. That's fine by me. I'll gladly take a doe. I'm not planning on "holding out" for a buck and will take the first safe and humane shot I can.