For weeks, a majestic 10-point buck had been roaming my private 20 acres, slipping through the woods just out of reach — a living ghost in my own backyard. I’d catch glimpses of him at dawn or on my trail cam, each sighting fueling the anticipation.

Then, on the crisp morning of October 16th, the woods were still and silent — perfect. I eased out before sunrise, heart pounding, breath visible in the cool air. At 7:30 a.m., as the first golden light broke through the trees, he stepped out. The same tall-tined buck I’d been dreaming about. One steady breath, one perfect shot — and the chase was finally over.