On November 10, 2005, with a doe and buck decoy positioned 20 yards upwind, I spotted two nice shooter bucks, but was unable to get a shot. The next morning broke calm, clear and in the mid-'30s as I hunted the same setup. At about 7:40 I heard deep grunting and spotted saplings swaying in the creek bed. After grunting to the yet-to-be-seen buck and getting a response, I knew that he was on his way. I grabbed my bow and in the process of hooking my release my arrow fell to the ground. I quickly grabbed another and frantically nocked it. When I looked up the buck had climbed out of the creek and was walking toward my tree at 20 yards. Luckily, he turned his attention to the decoys allowing me to draw and release an accurate arrow. After waiting one hour, I climbed down and followed the blood trail for about 60 yards to my 20.5-inch inside spread nine pointer.

--Bob Carlson, Upper Marlboro, MD

We'd like you to share a photo and short (100-word) story explaining what was most important to your success or what interesting thing you learned on the hunt. Be sure to include the date, weather conditions, time of day and distance of shot. To be considered, send submissions with your name, address and phone number to BOWHUNTING, "Sure Shots," 6420 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048-5515.