Hey there, everyone. I just have time for a quick check-in before bed, and work (UGH!!!) tomorrow. I did talk to Pred as I drove thru SLC today, and managed to not get killed in the traffic. Where else can you run 80 in a 65, locked in bumper to bumper congestion, next to a State Trooper, and not get pulled over for fear you will both get creamed? Only in the city, I guess.
The 12B-W early hunt was fun, but not what I would look forward to again. Enjoyed the visit with Steve, and met some more new friends from all over. Hard hunting, walking, glassing, sore butt from water tanks, I threw more rocks into canyons than Roger Clemens threw baseballs, and still had great time anyway. I kept pretty accurate records of deer numbers seen every day, and ended up with 502 does/fawns and 44 bucks for the 10 day hunt. Lots of 1-2 year old forkies and small 3's, and next year should be good. Passed up some pretty nice 4 points (20-22", up to 24") the last 3 days, but never saw that special "one". Had a 3-point so close with the muzzleloader, I was afraid to shoot because it would have set him on fire.
Got some good info and eyes-on report from the desert buck that was taken; figured at 32-34". Another hunter I talked with several times took a nice 30" heavy buck from the chainings area on Buckskin, and it was rutted up and chasing. One storm on top, and the deer should head down and the 12B hunt will be good. I will continue to apply and cross my fingers for a late hunt.
Hope everyone has a great season, and lots of success on any remaining hunts. Joel