David R Helmer

I sent out a number of letters last summer asking for permission, and this property belonged to a really nice older couple who responded. That Sunday in the woods I was planning to leave around 10:15, and I had already lowered my crossbow when he walked up. I had to frantically, but quietly, haul it back up to get a shot off as he was walking quartered-away from me at about 45 yards. His antlers were tangled up in a small tree or vine, making him really stand out as he walked through the woods. It seemed like we were equally sloppy/unprepared that day, but the highlight of the season can happen when you least expect it!

Date: December 11, 2016
Equipment Used: Crossbow
Location: Great Falls, Virginia
Pictured (left to right): David
Trophy Size: 12 points, double drop tines
Trophy Species: Whitetail Deer
Story: I sent out a number of letters last summer asking for permission, and this property belonged to a really nice older couple who responded. That Sunday in the woods I was planning to leave around 10:15, and I had already lowered my crossbow when he walked up. I had to frantically, but quietly, haul it back up to get a shot off as he was walking quartered-away from me at about 45 yards. His antlers were tangled up in a small tree or vine, making him really stand out as he walked through the woods. It seemed like we were equally sloppy/unprepared that day, but the highlight of the season can happen when you least expect it!

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