Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Deer Hunting => Topic started by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 03:41:26 PM

Title: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 03:41:26 PM: Hello all! :hello:

Gosh, it is nice to be on the other end of that crazy fire season and back in the woods on my own terms. Sorry for the absence for the majority of this summer, but living in my little cabin in the woods and fighting fire from Alaska to my backyard (literally... constructing fuel breaks at my parent's home this summer, and prepping friend's cabins in Oregon on my days off) gave me little time to check in.

As of October 14th, I called it quits for the season and turned in my gear in Naches, Washington and John Day, Oregon. Shortly afterwards, I made the trek back to my hometown of Chelan to pack and hike into the high country for the general season opener. My friend Jeff (the gentleman that accompanied me the morning of my moose success last season) and another individual hit the trail late in the morning of the 16th with a goal of making it just shy of 9 miles into a high alpine basin. The sun was shining, and we made the journey chasing the rays of light through the treetops until we arrived at our location up with the Pikas for the evening with just enough light to set up camp and get in some last minute glassing. The three of us were all smiles as we retired for the evening with alarms set for 5 AM.

(https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/t31.0-8/12029691_10104579695006398_1695455923548254881_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 03:46:34 PM: The beeping of two wristwatches ensured we were up and moving with adequate time to make the last mile push to the crest of the ridgeline, gaining our last bit of elevation (1000 feet) to watch the world wake up. We arrived in plenty of time, and started up the jetboil for morning caffine fixes and an array of oatmeal to fuel our bodies for the grueling day ahead.

The three of us sipped coffee, enjoyed oatmeal, and came up with the game plan for the day; Jeff was to head west/north along the ridgeline and my other friend (a person who had never hunted before but was coming along for the adventure and to learn) were to head south/east. We'd meet back at camp at the end of the day and report on what we discovered. (sorry, not a lot of photos on this one because too many are of the basins and mountain ranges seeing as we were on top of the world for most of this hunt)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: trophyhunt on October 22, 2015, 03:47:34 PM: Sweeeeeeet, hirshey is baaaaack!!!! Can't wait for the story and pics, we are all very happy you made it back safe and sound!!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 03:52:11 PM: As the day progressed, we slowly made our way along the ridgeline glassing both sides, pausing to take in the expansive views and analyze each sub-draw and basin as we progressed. By mid-afternoon we had seen some impressive sets of tracks following the ridgelines, presumably bucks making their migration to greener pastures, but we had seen very little in regards to creatures on the hoof. There was evidence of one summer-killed deer in a bedding area adjacent to a small spring, but aside from that these deer were ghosts. 7 miles traversed and nothing to show for it yet, aside from some grouse sightings from both parties.

(https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfl1/v/t1.0-9/1610873_10104579694996418_7349125982372908878_n.jpg?oh=aadf2c3790d123bf7bc82b97f9eedbb6&oe=56BC1DB9)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 03:57:34 PM: We had about 2 hours of usable daylight left, so to not be traversing some technical terrain by headlamp, we crossed back through one alpine basin with the notion of gaining about 1,500 feet in elevation to make it to a small saddle where we could drop back down to a trail and enjoy about a mile of trail walking back to camp for the day. As with any plan, all bets go out the window when you start getting into fresh sign... so about 400 feet in elevation above the valley bottom, we started finding that magical location deer were residing. Instead of continuing up to the saddle, I looked at my friend and explained that we'd gain about 100 more feet of elevation and then contour for an hour or so... Jokingly, I asked him if he was afraid of the dark, because chances were we'd be making most of our trip back by headlamp.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: 2MANY on October 22, 2015, 04:02:06 PM: I'm scared.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: jackelope on October 22, 2015, 04:02:40 PM: Welcome back, Hirshey...looking forward to the rest of the story.
:tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:06:55 PM: As we continued across the whitebark pine-dotted hillside, we flushed three grouse from their resting place. After the third, I sheepishly looked back at my companion and shook my head... how are you supposed to be sneaky with THOSE things giving you away every 50 yards? I turned and continued to progress across the hillside when it hit me: the strong, unmistakable scent of deer. I looked back at my friend and whisper, "do you smell that?? DEER!". I grab a small handful of dirt and let it fall from my fingertips... the winds were upslope/upvalley; those deer should be right below us.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: h20hunter on October 22, 2015, 04:07:02 PM: Wearing out my refresh button....keep it coming.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:09:51 PM: We crept across the hillside, with an emphasis on looking below and in front of us. My path across the hillside forced a decision; above or below a pine I'd been progressing towards... I chose the upslope route. Not fifteen feet after that pine, a small window through the timber presented itself ahead and downslope of me with the view I'd been waiting for all day: a mature buck... broadside... looking right at me! :yike:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: X-Force on October 22, 2015, 04:10:33 PM: :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: h20hunter on October 22, 2015, 04:12:13 PM: Ugh. Gotta clock out and hit the road.....won't get to refresh for about an hour! Killing me!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:13:38 PM: I looked at my friend and motioned to stop, whispering with vigor "DEER! BUCK! SH**!"

My range finder was in the top of my pack, and I wanted to be sure of the distance before I even raised my rifle barrel in his direction, so I waited an agonizing amount of time before he looked straight forward. I slid my bag carefully off my back and retrieved my range finder. 260. Not where I wanted him just yet, even though my new baby (Kimber Mountain Ascent .270 with Zeiss scope) is sighted in to be dead on at 200. I wanted him under 200. I whispered to my friend that I was going to take my range finder and rifle, keeping a pine in between me and the buck, and sneak downhill a bit to close the distance. He was in position to watch the buck, so I started my slow trek.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: h2ofowlr on October 22, 2015, 04:17:01 PM: :o
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Karl Blanchard on October 22, 2015, 04:18:11 PM: I already know how it ends :chuckle: :peep:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Ccortez on October 22, 2015, 04:29:32 PM: Quote from: BLRman on October 22, 2015, 04:18:11 PM
I already know how it ends :chuckle: :peep:

You must be the new guy that's afraid of the dark that watched? :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: coachcw on October 22, 2015, 04:33:28 PM: my money is on her :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:35:18 PM: Slowly, painfully, I crept down the hill out of view of the buck to the next pine. Once in position, I held on tightly to my range finder and side-stepped the tree until I could see my target. 200 on the dot! I lowered the range finder and started to sit: my preferred shooting position has always been elbows resting on knees... but the buck took two steps and disappeared from my sight picture. I side stepped twice more to get a good view of him and quickly sat over my knees. It was decided. I wanted this buck! I settled into shooting position as the buck turned its head back my direction... I put the crosshairs just behind his shoulder, took off the safety and started to squeeze... and the shakes hit. I release pressure on the trigger and put the safety back on... settling down, I try once again... and shake. I take a deep breath and settle back into position with the crosshairs aiming true.. and pull the trigger. The recoil is minimal, and I pick the animal back up quickly... he is still standing there, ears lowered, acting like a large buck that perhaps had a bullet fly over its head... I'm flabbergasted!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:39:55 PM: I quickly run through the scenario in my mind... yes, it is downhill... yes, I could have shot over the top of him with the slope being what it was... but in my heart of hearts I was sure the slope was gradual enough not to have THAT much of an impact on my shot. I shake my head, jack another bullet in as the buck continues to stand there, head lowered, 200 yards away. I look at him in my scope, and notice he doesn't look like he's sneaking, he looks hit. Resolutely, I put the crosshairs back behind his shoulder (he is now standing broadside the opposing direction from the initial shot) and squeeze the trigger. This time, a decided reaction; he bucks, and starts running downhill. I move quickly, setting up in position for another shot if necessary when he clears a small clump of trees and enters a clearing. I wait; 5 seconds. 10 seconds. 20 seconds. Nothing.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:44:37 PM: I slowly start taking steps downhill at an angle, revealing more and more of the area under the patch of timber until I see a body laying on the uphill side of the last pine. I stop to examine the situation. My deer (at this point, it is resolute in my mind... I would do anything to make sure I recovered this animal) was laying, but it's head was still alert. An angled away, laying down shot... not my favorite, but I was desperate to end the hunt. I sat, and raised my gun one last time. With the recoil of the gun came the sight of my buck straightening its legs and sliding 10 yards downhill. All was motionless. I had been given one more successful hunting season!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:47:47 PM: I whooped at my friend, who is a natural at this hunting thing... he'd collected both packs and slowly started to work his way down the hill, making sure he had a good sight picture on the buck each time I shot. We got to my animal and examined just how beautiful he was! Dark, tall horns greeted our arrival.

(https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/12046946_10104579651313958_6178615795462727205_n.jpg?oh=043ee8745550bfdcf610e8dc93a86db5&oe=56C7AB73)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Skillet on October 22, 2015, 04:50:38 PM: Really great story, great buck, thanks for sharing Hirshey! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: DOUBLELUNG on October 22, 2015, 04:51:32 PM: Very nicely done, and great photos too!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: bobcat on October 22, 2015, 04:51:44 PM: Nice buck, and thanks for not taking three days to post the entire story, like some people do. ;)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Roosevelt on October 22, 2015, 04:53:42 PM: Awesome depiction! Will you marry me? :chuckle: Congrats!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:55:26 PM: We pulled him downhill to a slightly flatter location to begin an incredible amount of work. I'm a fan of the gutless method, which pairs well when you are caping an animal, so we diligently worked to bone him and cape him out, getting our heavy packs loaded and ready for hiking back to camp at 9:30 PM.

During the boning process, I discovered that deer was dead on his feet; the first two bullets' entrance and exit holes were within 2 inches, and the last entered behind the shoulder and unfortunately went out THROUGH the off-side shoulder, making it so I lost a decent amount of meat. We still ended up with about 85-90 pounds of meat, but always a little bit of a downer.

At 9:35 we started our trek back to camp, and earned a good lesson in night-hiking when we missed a trail junction and added an extra .5 miles onto our adventure for the evening... gaining and losing a total of almost 3000 feet in elevation, we made it back to camp, a flask of whiskey, and a still-burning fire from Jeff at 1:00 AM. Needless to say our next day's adventurings with Jeff were shot!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Buck Rub Jr on October 22, 2015, 04:55:35 PM: Awesome! Crongrats! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: trophyhunt on October 22, 2015, 04:56:01 PM: Very cool write up, again! Congrats!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on October 22, 2015, 04:56:58 PM: Congrats awesome buck. :tup:

Now I can get back to hunting. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:57:45 PM: (https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/t31.0-8/12034382_10104579695285838_2739412246460468763_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:58:12 PM: (https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/12032179_10104579700939508_8994144085902970128_n.jpg?oh=559793be33d117aee84a5407a870f18d&oe=56C19737)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Bucks2Ducks on October 22, 2015, 04:58:23 PM: Another awesome mulie, nice job!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 04:59:51 PM: The next day while I was sleeping in and taking care of my cape, Jeff took a cue from my success and hit the same elevation band, shooting a small 3 point, and immediately getting a lesson in patience when 5 other larger ones ran off. :chuckle: We all packed out the following day, having had a wonderful adventure, and a great warm-up for Idaho in a few weeks! :IBCOOL:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: X-Force on October 22, 2015, 05:00:08 PM: Great buck. Fun write up.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 05:00:38 PM: (https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10926457_10104579695076258_4062965248719413741_n.jpg?oh=a427439be064063e90b7f836b8359b07&oe=56D20C94)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: trophyhunt on October 22, 2015, 05:01:09 PM: Quote from: Roosevelt on October 22, 2015, 04:53:42 PM
Awesome depiction! Will you marry me? :chuckle: Congrats!
how many guys on here were thinking the same thing??!!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 05:02:06 PM: On a sidenote; I broke my Kuiu Icon 6000 frame hauling out those heavy loads...
(https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12122501_10104579701777828_3687808130385251120_n.jpg?oh=3dafabf183ece8020818008d8742d7c5&oe=56D2E0F3)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 05:03:15 PM: ...but the good news is their warranty program is awesome.

(https://scontent-sjc2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/12042868_10104579701792798_7463476705366888557_n.jpg?oh=c9c3507388e0b8f62a3dc204245608c7&oe=568C58A8)

here is my jerry-rigged fix to make it out of the woods.

Pack is in the mail and should have it back by Idaho.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: trophyhunt on October 22, 2015, 05:20:06 PM: :bash:that sucks!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Karl Blanchard on October 22, 2015, 05:24:47 PM: I think its time to step up to a Kifaru so you don't ever have to worry about actually using the warranty :peep:

Don't flame me, I was just messin.... 8) :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: cooltimber on October 22, 2015, 05:25:17 PM: Ok Hirshey Ive changed my mind about getting a divorce! :chuckle:
nice write and great buck
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: quadrafire on October 22, 2015, 05:33:54 PM: I'm thinking this between-the-lines-non-hunter is courting her and she is testing the waters.......... ;) (any takers?)

Nice Buck Hirshey and as always a great story to accompany it :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Widgeondeke on October 22, 2015, 05:34:47 PM: Reading your post is like reading a great novel. I always want more.
Congrats! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: PlateauNDN on October 22, 2015, 05:38:31 PM: Quote from: bobcat on October 22, 2015, 04:51:44 PM
Nice buck, and thanks for not taking three days to post the entire story, like some people do. ;)

:yike: :dunno: don't listen to this rabble, great writeup and nice buck :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 05:40:44 PM: Quote from: BLRman on October 22, 2015, 05:24:47 PM
I think its time to step up to a Kifaru so you don't ever have to worry about actually using the warranty :peep:

Don't flame me, I was just messin.... 8) :chuckle:

(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10155010_10103504016859028_318241331543414832_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=dbee7874483f4172aa201949c691af33&oe=56C2E464)

(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10730918_10103579433503468_8496152096067421947_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=6ef1309cc418ff3d8827a25bfd168c0a&oe=568E77C2)

(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/v/t1.0-9/10802062_10103579434097278_5722864435332882025_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=0211e5db056f5d5ed8d14197acfb4c3b&oe=568476E1)

(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/v/t1.0-9/1932211_10103579434721028_5648153968469929236_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=194d19c9fc436e3864830e0d20490819&oe=56BEBF75)

I love my kuiu.. I won't probably ever switch. :)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: h20hunter on October 22, 2015, 05:54:21 PM: As always, heck of a great deer. Hirsh. ...you da man.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: h2ofowlr on October 22, 2015, 06:01:09 PM: Congrats. Always great write ups!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: bowhunterforever on October 22, 2015, 06:11:34 PM: Stud of a 3 point :drool: Congrats :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Bob33 on October 22, 2015, 06:16:10 PM: Your stories are always so well done. Congratulations on a very nice deer.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: coachcw on October 22, 2015, 06:29:19 PM: is your Kuiu frame an older one I had a hundred thirty pounds mine with no issues
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Ridgerunner on October 22, 2015, 06:33:32 PM: Great write up and buck! Congrats on another great year.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: 3nails on October 22, 2015, 06:34:08 PM: Fabulous write up and pics! You never disappoint.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 22, 2015, 06:36:22 PM: Quote from: coachcw on October 22, 2015, 06:29:19 PM
is your Kuiu frame an older one I had a hundred thirty pounds mine with no issues

It is the 2011 frame. I've used it for 4 seasons now with no issues and a lot of heavy pack-abouts... with the exception of the first season that I let my ex borrow it and he broke it packing out his Blues spring bear. :chuckle:

They have an awesome warranty program though, and it is in the mail and anticipated to be back before my Idaho adventuring. They gave me the option of an upgrade to the 2013 frame and suspension and keeping my old bag, or 50% off any new packs. I love my old bag style, so new frame and suspension it is.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: elkboy on October 22, 2015, 06:44:21 PM: Tremendous buck, and great write-up! I could almost feel the mountain breeze...
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on October 22, 2015, 06:51:39 PM: Another great write up, pics, and buck. Great work and big Congrats! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: LittleJohn on October 22, 2015, 07:25:42 PM: Totally awesome story and buck

Thanks for sharing with us
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: tgomez on October 22, 2015, 07:25:58 PM: Sweet buck Hirshey! Saw you in an Eastmans Hunting Journal issue once a year or two ago. I believe it is the same buck that's in your avitar. Nice buck then, and nice buck now!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Watimberghost on October 22, 2015, 07:33:05 PM: Great buck! You always do such a great job taking us along your journeys :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: M_ray on October 22, 2015, 08:10:19 PM: Thats a good one! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: danderson on October 22, 2015, 08:15:26 PM: You Amaze me, another great wright up and adventure, thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Muleyslyr on October 22, 2015, 08:17:52 PM: Awesome. Good work Hirshey!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: 7mag. on October 22, 2015, 08:19:03 PM: As usual, great write up. Way to get it done again. Thank you for your sacrifice and hard work fighting fires all summer. I know it can be a dirty, miserable job.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: JimmyHoffa on October 22, 2015, 08:39:08 PM: Great job on the deer and the story.
Always such a puzzlement when they don't react to a shot... until you find that all your shots were in the same place!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on October 22, 2015, 09:04:33 PM: Good job Hirshey !!!! Fine buck !
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Mark251 on October 22, 2015, 09:08:22 PM: Great looking buck! Congratulations :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: mfswallace on October 22, 2015, 09:29:29 PM: As always, Amazing!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: JakeLand on October 22, 2015, 09:50:05 PM: Way to go thank goodness you didn't drag out a great story and pics like some one else good job and good luck in Idaho!!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: lokidog on October 22, 2015, 11:51:17 PM: Great story, you don't waste much time up there. I guess you can keep your pack in light when you only need a day.... :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: PolarBear on October 22, 2015, 11:56:28 PM: Awesome as always! My daughter will want to read this one. Thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Falcon on October 23, 2015, 12:33:34 AM: Great story and pics. Congrats on a great help hunt👍
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: RadSav on October 23, 2015, 04:19:03 AM: I love that grouse pic!

Always look forward to the annual Hirshey threads. Congratulations!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: boneaddict on October 23, 2015, 04:49:47 AM: Great story, buck and photos. Congrats on another great year.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on October 23, 2015, 05:09:25 AM: Congrats and good job with the story and pictures!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: NOCK NOCK on October 23, 2015, 06:26:24 AM: Congrats Hirshey, Your going to need a Huge wall with the pace your stacking em up. :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: BGLEMIN on October 23, 2015, 06:41:59 AM: Such a vivid recount I felt I was there!! Very nice buck!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: 206 on October 23, 2015, 06:59:30 AM: Great FO TOES (said like Forrest Gump)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: rosscrazyelk on October 23, 2015, 07:17:47 AM: Great deer as always.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: seth30 on October 23, 2015, 07:22:11 AM: Congratulations on a great hunt, and a huge deer :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: IBspoiled on October 23, 2015, 07:25:35 AM: Nice buck, and photos. thanx for sharing :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: asmith on October 23, 2015, 07:27:11 AM: Wow!! That's the first story on here that actually pulled me in and I couldn't wait to read the next post! We'll done, great story and awesome buck!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Blacklab on October 23, 2015, 07:43:57 AM: Awesome! all the way around :tup:

Now we must wait a couple of weeks for Idaho :yike: :chuckle: :)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: vfilbert on October 23, 2015, 07:48:32 AM: Awesome buck
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: pianoman9701 on October 23, 2015, 08:06:10 AM: What a great buck and story, Hirshey. Thanks for all the great pictures, too.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: CoryTDF on October 23, 2015, 08:40:48 AM: Great story. I cannot see the pictures for some reason. I have an EXO pack you can borrow for Idaho if you need to. Just let me know.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: jstone on October 23, 2015, 08:52:34 AM: That is an awesome adventure. i was going to go way in for the early archery but my spot in the south chelan was on fire this year. Makes me wish my area had a late archery. GOOD JOB Next year should be a great year
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: 2MANY on October 23, 2015, 09:08:56 AM: + 1000.

Thanks for your hard work fighting fires and have a safe, successful remainder of your season.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: kellama2001 on October 23, 2015, 09:15:47 AM: Wow! What an awesome story and an awesome buck! Thanks so much for sharing :tup: :tup: You make all of us girl hunters look good!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: bearpaw on October 23, 2015, 12:08:53 PM: Great buck and photos, awesome write up! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: kentrek on October 23, 2015, 01:31:10 PM: Awesome story ! Glad the new hunter got to experience the moment :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: jkthomps on October 23, 2015, 02:18:44 PM: Awesome story and great buck! Congrats! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: dreamingbig on October 23, 2015, 03:15:37 PM: Quote from: BLRman on October 22, 2015, 05:24:47 PM
I think its time to step up to a Kifaru so you don't ever have to worry about actually using the warranty :peep:

Don't flame me, I was just messin.... 8) :chuckle:

Yeah that!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: JAFL on October 23, 2015, 04:47:33 PM: Very nice buck! And I love the story :)
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Becky on October 23, 2015, 05:34:30 PM: Great write-up! Congrats on an awesome trophy.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: FSTaxidermy on October 23, 2015, 06:17:57 PM: Great story....felt like I was right over your shoulder watching the entre adventure unfold. Congrats on a great buck too :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: wingsandwilds on October 23, 2015, 06:32:57 PM: You should be an author! Congrats on your harvest. You always have the best storylines and pics.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: duckslayer on October 23, 2015, 09:37:19 PM: Congrats on another nice buck!! Good luck in ID, can't wait to see the pictures and read your story. on a side note, Kuiu is sending me the 2013 frame and harness as well......I was too scared to not have my Icon 6000 for my ID backcountry trip as well. Just like with anything, if you actually use it enough you will break stuff occasionally! Again, great buck.....
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: jmx369 on October 24, 2015, 07:50:05 AM: Great story. I am excited to read about your Idaho adventure. Congrats and good luck.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: fishnfur on October 24, 2015, 10:50:52 AM: Makes me wish I was young again. Great hunt and story!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: The Gobble-stopper on October 24, 2015, 12:24:53 PM: Congrats! Nice write-up. And welcome back.
I got my 4x3 muley only 3 miles in. Hunting by myself. Quartered it and packed it out in one trip.
I feel like such a woose!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: saylean on October 25, 2015, 07:18:57 PM: Great looking buck Hirshey. Congrats on a fine hunt.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: BNAElkhntr on October 25, 2015, 07:23:53 PM: Wow Hirshey! What A Buck must be karma coming to you for saving all that forest with your hard work this summer]
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: 7mmstalker on October 25, 2015, 08:24:23 PM: Congrats on a fine buck, good effort and excellent stalking paid off !
Been looking for a Hirshey post to respond to, . . . . .
My son and I moose hunted north of Anchorage, and drove some of the roads bordering a big burn you and your fellow warriors were fighting this summer. WOW, flying over the fire damaged areas really drove home the enormous acreage of that fire (Sockeye).

You deserve sooo much thanks and recognition for the difficult and dangerous job you are doing, thank you.

You might be pleased to know, the fireweed was already coming back! A welcome bit of fresh life in the landscape. Certainly you have your reasons for the choices you make. Seems that a deep appreciation of the planet and it's life must be in you somewhere near the top.
Again, Thank you and your mates from all of the crews that came to Alaska and did so much.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: PlateauNDN on October 25, 2015, 11:15:19 PM: :hello: your inbox is full
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 26, 2015, 07:12:10 AM: Quote from: PlateauNDN on October 25, 2015, 11:15:19 PM
:hello: your inbox is full
Hirshey@msn.com

My inbox is always full :chuckle: too many conversations I'm too fond of to delete!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Jrzbullelk on October 26, 2015, 07:36:05 AM: Very cool Hirshey congrats on the success maybe next time you'll let me tag along :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Wea300mag on October 26, 2015, 08:37:38 AM: Great story and images, congrats!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on October 26, 2015, 09:43:52 AM: Quote from: 7mmstalker on October 25, 2015, 08:24:23 PM
Congrats on a fine buck, good effort and excellent stalking paid off !
Been looking for a Hirshey post to respond to, . . . . .
My son and I moose hunted north of Anchorage, and drove some of the roads bordering a big burn you and your fellow warriors were fighting this summer. WOW, flying over the fire damaged areas really drove home the enormous acreage of that fire (Sockeye).

You deserve sooo much thanks and recognition for the difficult and dangerous job you are doing, thank you.

You might be pleased to know, the fireweed was already coming back! A welcome bit of fresh life in the landscape. Certainly you have your reasons for the choices you make. Seems that a deep appreciation of the planet and it's life must be in you somewhere near the top.
Again, Thank you and your mates from all of the crews that came to Alaska and did so much.

Well thank you! It truly is a special job, but doesn't come without its sacrifices and frustrations. Getting paid to be outdoors and be a steward of the land is pretty special though.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: The Gobble-stopper on October 26, 2015, 10:51:48 AM: Quote from: hirshey on October 26, 2015, 09:43:52 AM
Quote from: 7mmstalker on October 25, 2015, 08:24:23 PM
Congrats on a fine buck, good effort and excellent stalking paid off !
Been looking for a Hirshey post to respond to, . . . . .
My son and I moose hunted north of Anchorage, and drove some of the roads bordering a big burn you and your fellow warriors were fighting this summer. WOW, flying over the fire damaged areas really drove home the enormous acreage of that fire (Sockeye).

You deserve sooo much thanks and recognition for the difficult and dangerous job you are doing, thank you.

You might be pleased to know, the fireweed was already coming back! A welcome bit of fresh life in the landscape. Certainly you have your reasons for the choices you make. Seems that a deep appreciation of the planet and it's life must be in you somewhere near the top.
Again, Thank you and your mates from all of the crews that came to Alaska and did so much.

Well thank you! It truly is a special job, but doesn't come without its sacrifices and frustrations. Getting paid to be outdoors and be a steward of the land is pretty special though.
Wouldn't that make you a stewardess? :dunno:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: BigBullDreamer11 on October 26, 2015, 11:19:51 AM: That is a great deer and a great story!!! Always nice to have good friend with you on a awesome hunt!! Congrats
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: NoTrails on October 26, 2015, 02:51:49 PM: That really is a good write-up. Congratulations Kari!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: gunnarnewt on November 19, 2015, 03:20:01 PM: Very Nice! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: seth30 on November 19, 2015, 03:31:23 PM: that is a great deer, and pictures of your adventure :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: huntnphool on November 20, 2015, 01:09:27 AM: Well done :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Kittman on November 20, 2015, 09:22:30 AM: Thanks for sharing your story, congratulations. Excellent rhetorical writing execution by the way.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: C-Money on November 20, 2015, 02:44:24 PM: Sounds like another great adventure! Congrats to you and your friend!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: hirshey on November 20, 2015, 04:08:56 PM: Thanks all!

After much contemplation (seeing as I took a year off of posting about my Idaho adventures due to hard feelings)... I'll be posting both stories here shortly. Idaho was yet another soul-enriching experience, and I won't let one bad egg (or two) ruin a huge part of my enjoyment, which is writing and sharing my stories.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: predatorpro on November 20, 2015, 04:10:46 PM: Great buck!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on November 20, 2015, 04:32:55 PM: Quote from: hirshey on November 20, 2015, 04:08:56 PM
Thanks all!

After much contemplation (seeing as I took a year off of posting about my Idaho adventures due to hard feelings)... I'll be posting both stories here shortly. Idaho was yet another soul-enriching experience, and I won't let one bad egg (or two) ruin a huge part of my enjoyment, which is writing and sharing my stories.

Can't wait for pics, and storey! :tup:
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: b.roberts on November 20, 2015, 05:25:17 PM: M

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Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: actionshooter on November 20, 2015, 08:08:37 PM: Great story.........some of us (me) just kinda grunt and say "killed buck", "heavy pack", your stories are much more eloquent :)

Sent a PM....mailbox is full
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 22, 2015, 05:35:44 PM: Congrats Hirshey!! Thanks for sharing the story and write up!!
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: wadu1 on November 22, 2015, 05:39:38 PM: Thanks for sharing the story and write up!! Great as usual :tup:
Can you empty your in box, it's full. I would like a copy/link of your helli firefighting video.
Title: Re: Hirshey's Washington Deer 2015
Post by: mtn muley madness on November 22, 2015, 09:52:12 PM: Isn't that high alpine Muley country the best!? There's no greater place on earth to be than on top of the world with a deer tag in your pocket...I'm pretty sure that's why God invented hunting and also why hunting is so awesome. I like your style..if the legs aren't broken, don't take them for granted USE THEM! Nice work on the story/hunt/photos/oh ya, and the harvest!