How quickly this creature can humble you! 2012 was one of our best years in history. 2013, however, was our worst. We experienced 65% success rate in 2013. Our average deer was barely 150”. Once again, our lowest number in years. Our four biggest bucks (165” and above) were shot at and missed. This seemed to be the way our luck went this season. I believe the 2010 winter had a negative impact on fawn survival as there was a definite hole in the age class in 2013. Lots of 2 and 3 year old bucks, very few 4 year olds.

The best deer we harvested were genetically superior three year olds in the mid 150 class.

Photos of some very good bucks in September and November made it clearly obvious that there were some upper end available. The late November moon and the lack of 4 year olds made for a very frustrating season.