It was the 2^nd Sunday of deer gun season.  I had hunted at Niles Canyon Ranch several times and truly looked forward to hunting that day.  Almost every time on a hunt there I see deer and other wildlife.  At various hunts at Niles I’ve seen deer, bobcat, porcupine, turkey, quail, raccoon and many other critters.  My work requires many hard working and sometimes stressful hours.  When hunting at Niles I am able to relax and get back to nature.  The stands are top notch from everything to viewing windows, roof, carpet and padded bench.  I must confess I’ve been known to take a nap a time or two.

This particular day was what I consider a perfect day for hunting.  The wind was about 5 MPH out of the SW, skies were clear and the temperature was 65 degrees.  I arrived at the stand around 3 PM and got all set up with my gun, coffee, snacks etc….  One of the advantages to such nice stands is the opportunity to stretch out, relax and enjoy some goodies!  Although a beautiful day it was also a little slower for deer movement.  It was getting later and the sun was setting.  This is what I always consider prime time for the hunt.  So many times I’ve hunted all day not to see a deer until prime time.  I had not lost confidence but knew time was running out.  About 5:40 I looked to my right and there was a huge buck that had just appeared.  He was about 50 yards away and I could clearly see the large rack.  My heart was pumping and I knew it was a shooter but I spent a few minutes looking at the spread, base diameter and counting points.  I squeezed one off at the neck and he fell immediately.  I was so excited but I waited 10 to 15 minutes in the stand before exiting.  I remember walking up to him and marveling at how wide his rack was.

I had him mounted and what a trophy he is!  Everyone that sees him can’t believe the beautiful rack and how large his neck is.  The taxidermist told me he had to order a special neck base and it was the largest neck he had seen on an Oklahoma Deer.  He is a trophy but also was incredibly good venison.  I expected an older buck like him to be tough and not the best tasting buck but was pleasantly surprised at how excellent the meat tasted.

It was one of many awesome hunts I’ve had at Niles Canyon Ranch!  Thanks Paul so much for the memories.

Ben Gray