When do you stop looking for a wounded deer?

[Joe Hulburt]

I can't say I would have looked that long. Impressive effort right there. Normally I would share mtmuley's sentiment but that is because often times the reason for that ending is a lack of effort up front and when I see people smiling with antlers it rubs me the wrong way. That is not the case here! I know for sure that if my brother looked that long and hard to put an ending to an unfortunate story I would really appreciate the skull as a memento. Well done Schaaf!

 

[kmf]

Glad you found it. Obviously it's not the result you wanted but good to find it. To each his own but keeping the skull is a great way to add value to these animals. If they have no value we probably have no game. Wether the reasons are being over hunted, habitat loss etc., no value means no wildlife. It's a way to show respect for the deer if you choose.

 

[jrabq]

Bittersweet story, not the "reward" you were originally hoping for, but good job. I think giving the skull to your brother is a great idea.

 

[kansasdad]

That is impressive persistence in continuing your search.

The best part of your story is the relationship building with your brother.

 

[mtmuley]

If it is something that is positivr for you, by all means do it. Just my personal feelings about it. I have a buddy that lost his biggest bull ever years ago. He cut his tag the day he arrowed it. He made every effort to find the bull, even in the months afterward whenever he was in the area. He found him a year later. The rack is still where he found it. At first I didn't understand why the Hell he left it there. Let's just say I do now. mtmuley

 

[TheJason]

Glad your brother and you both got some closure on it. It sucks.

With rifles, I'd much rather miss forward and high than low and back. I believe a lot of people aim way too far back because they don't know any better.