Smile FM Virtual Buck Pole

Congratulations to all of our 2010 Winners!

2010-12-06T10:01:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who shared their bucks with us. Susie and I judged these not as a big buck contest but on three different criteria: good clean and well thought out pictures. We say a picture isworth as much as a big buck with a run of the mill picture. An interestingwell written story composed by the person who took the buck. And lastlybut least important a nice buck. Sure big bucks our nice but how you gotyour buck and how you tell about it and the picture are equallysignificant. We salute all who entered and congratulate our winners!

First off Runner Ups. These three were in the running to the final cut andwere all nosed out by a hair.#20 Cindy Asher, #8 Bill Cortez, and # 3 Jeff Juhl.

Now for the winners:

Most Inspiring: -Tie- #7, Anna Gooden and #17, James Taylor
Best Female Youth: #15 Jozlynne Albert
Best Male Youth: # 29 Donnie Burke
Best Male Hunter: #10 CJ Jeffers
Best Female Hunter: # 9 Sarah Vroman
Best Overall: #25, Micah Wood

Again congratulations to all. Susie and I look forward to next year.God bless: Rob & Susie Trott, Great Lakes Outdoors Television

#25 Micah Wood - Best Overall - Grand Prize Winner

2010-12-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Scottville/Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

8 pt. 17" inside spread, 8" G2, 156lbs dressed

The Story: After not seeing anything the night before, we decided to go the the other end of the field and sit next to a corn field. We saw lots of doe in the hay field and then we saw a coyote. The coyote was looking for mice in the field of raked hay.

Then, from the left of us came a nice 8 pt. I was getting ready to shoot it. As I lean forward and turned to get ready for the shot, my dad got my attention to look left again and see this nice buck. It came out at 50 yards, and stared at the coyote in the field broad side to us. My brother and dad were watching with their binoculars as I shot the buck. It ran about 50 yards and died and I said, "Thank you, Lord!"

I shot this buck during the youth hunt and I was 13 at the time. I turned 14 this month.

#9 Sarah Vroman - Best Female Hunter

2010-12-06T09:59:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
Kingston, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

8pt 17 1/2 in inside spread 160yd shot 184lbs

The Story: I'm 20 yrs old, I've been hunting since I was 14. I have had several successful hunts, but this by far is the biggest one I have shot. It was opening night and I took this one just after 5pm. I saw this buck earlier in the evening chasing a doe just over a knoll, but he never gave me a shot. I waited patiently and sure enough he came out of the woods 160 yds away. There was no chance he was getting by me again. So I pulled up my muzzleloader and pulled the trigger. After I shot I waited for my dad to help me track my deer. We found him about 60 yds from where I shot him. I was so excited all I could say was he is huge.

#10 CJ Jeffers - Best Male Hunter

2010-12-06T09:58:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Stockbridge, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

12 pts, 17 1/4" spread

The Story: Here is how my hunting begins! I asked the good Lord to please let me see a deer this morning!. If I see one, please let him come into range. If he comes into range, please let me shoot straight and true. I was sitting there, thinking, "there isn't anything moving, no other shots being fired, they aren't moving." A little voice in my head said, "Go home dummy, you got to get some sleep before work tonight!" As I was packing my gear, I saw them running into my field! Heading away from me! Then the doe that the two bucks were chasing, turned and headed toward me, at an angle! I got the doe in my scope, backed it off to the first buck chasing her. Led him in my scope and Boom!! 90 meters at a full run! One shot, he dropped in his tracks! I racked another round into my gun, got a bead on the second, even bigger buck, led him, but he entered the woods so I wasn't able to get him! No clue how much he weighs as I can't get him lifted on the scale by myself.

The Lord was good to me by granting me the means and ability to receive my trophy and meat for my family! Take care and God Bless you all! :) CJ

#29 Donnie Burke - Best Male Youth

2010-12-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Garden, Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

8 Point

The Story: Where we live, we don't really see a whole lot of deer. So we decided to go to visit my grandpa over Thanksgiving and hunt while we were there. I had only seen a couple doe the first few days. On our last day there, I had a doe in and he had come from the same direction she had, following her. He came in broadside at 35 yards out, and I shot him. He ran and died after about 50 feet. Not bad for my first deer and a 20 guage shot gun with buck shot.

#15 Jozlynne Albert - Best Female Youth

2010-12-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Barbeau, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

The Story: I'm 16 and this was my first year really hunting. On Oct. 28th in walks this 3 point...I've only been watching him for days, and vowed the next time I saw him I'd try to shoot him. So you can only imagine my excitement!! Out came my bow..heart pouding..arms shaking..y'know how that goes! well the buck made a mistake and turned perfectly broadside; I aimed, took the shot, and the rest is history! :D Hallelujah!!

#7 Anna Gooden - TIE - Most Inspiring

2010-12-06T09:55:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Manton, Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

7 Point

The Story: I come from a long line of outdoor enthusiasts. Four years ago, at 27, I decided to finally take my hunter's safety course. My Dad encouraged me every step of the way. The past four years have yielded two children for my husband and I, but no deer! It has been hard to find time to hunt being a busy Mom and wife. This year, I was determined to get a buck! My Dad and I went out in the afternoon on opening day. We had not seen anything in the morning, or in the afternoon for that matter. It was nearly dark and my dad said, "Let's give it five more minutes." We both turned our attention to a field where a dark shadow was visible, and moving cautiously. My Dad got his scope on it first and said, "It's a buck. Do you have your scope on it?" I was so excited, I fumbled at first. "No, I don't have it, " I said. "Wait, I've got it." I released the safety on my 6mm and slowly pulled the trigger. My ears rang from the shot. On the field, approximately 60 yards away, lay my first deer -- a 7 point buck! Thankfully, it was an immediate kill shot and we didn't have to track it. I am so thankful I was able to share that moment with my Dad.

#17 James Taylor - TIE - Most Inspiring

2010-12-06T09:54:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
Holt MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

Scored 142 Gross - Net - 139

The Story: It was October 2nd in a new area, with a new bow and new blind. I hadn't seen a thing until the last 10 minutes when I heard a branch snap. It was a 10 point buck about 30 yards away, and he was headed my way. When he got to my shooting lane he was broadside, I was at full draw, I grunted, the buck stopped and looked right at me. I let the arrow go and after the pass through I heard the arrow hit the leaves. It got so dark and I couldn't find any blood, so I went home to wait for morning. When leaving the woods that night I was so excited about the possibility of hitting a buck that I accidently left my new bow on my tailgate and drove off. When I arrived home I realized what I had done. I had lost my bow. My wife and I went back to search for the bow to no avail. I was so upset that I didn't sleep at all that night. The next day I went back and found my arrow. After making three passes through the woods with no luck,I prayed this prayer:"Lord I lost my bow, Please let me find my buck." I looked to my left and all I seen was horns. Another hunter, after seeing signs I posted for my bow, returned it to me! I had my buck and my bow back! Two answered prayers with a happy ending.

# 20 Cindy Asher - Honorable Mention

2010-12-06T09:53:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Traunik MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

4 points

The Story: Yooper bags her first buck! Living out in the country on 40 acres in Traunik MI, near Marquette is something I never thought I'd do...being raised a city girl from Holt MI. When I married my husband and moved to the U.P. it was like coming home since I was born in Escanaba.

I have come to appreciate nature and enjoy Gods creation. The woods is silent, peaceful, and beautiful with an opportunity to read. Today I was reading something a little different...the Black Friday ads and mapping my strategy for the big sales tomorrow!

I was sitting in my swamp blind right by the creek it doesn't get much prettier than that. My husband had been hunting earlier this week in that blind and noticed the 4 point. He offered today to take the ridge blind where I'd been hunting previously....so I could have the swamp blind with an opportunity to maybe.....see and shoot my first deer. The 4 point came in with a Spike and with 1 shot...I bagged my 1st buck.

#8 Bill Cortez - Honorable Mention

2010-12-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Pinckney, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

6 point/ 21 1/2" spread

The Story: I have shot the two biggest bucks of my life the last 2 of 3 years. I really feel the Lord has been talking to me through hunting. I lost my Dad to cancer on December 1st of 2008. 12 Days later I went hunting (my first time that year because of Dad being sick) and asked the Lord to send me out the biggest buck I have seen or has ever been taken on our property if my Dad was truly there with him. A few minutes later a huge buck came in and walked to within bow range (10 yards). He was by far the biggest buck ever taken on the property and the biggest buck any of us had seen there. A 10 pt with a 21 inch spread. This year on opening day I was talking to the Lord about some things and asked him to send me another one as a sign of what we were talking about and out came the biggest 6 point I have ever seen in our hunting area. I know most would just think its a coincidence but I do not and I am very blessed and thankful.

#3 Jeff Juhl - Honorable Mention

2010-12-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
St. Charles, Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
10 point 17" inside spread approximatily 160lbs dressed weight

My name is Jeff Juhl and I am 51 years old. I have been dear hunting since I was 14 years old. I am a serious hunter and have been since the first day I hunted. I have shot numerous deer over the years, but never a trophy buck. About ten years ago I started bow hunting and it has been my passion ever since. The past two years I have changed my hunting tactics and have gone hunting by boat into places where the average hunter does not get too. This year I even took it a step further. I had the opportunity, thanks to Spot Shooter Archery in Holly, Michigan, to have my bow “blessed” by Pastor Marv Gerbig of Holly Church of the Nazarene. I did not hesitate to take my bow to this event. As you can see God is good!The first week of November was the planned hunt for this year, 2010. Day one was very uneventful. The next morning was slow again so I decided to move my location. At 11 o’clock I did just that. It took approximately two hours to get moved and set back up. It all happened shortly after that. At 3 o’clock I saw my buck walking out in front of me about 60 yards. I used my grunt call to get his attention and he turned around and walked right into me. As you can see by my submission the end of the story was picture perfect.

#33 Dan Patrick

2010-12-02T10:53:00.001-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Houghton, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

8 point

The Story: I have always enjoyed the great outdoors. For the past two years I have held off from shooting a deer knowing that there were big ones out there. This year I decided to move my blind to a new location near where I have always hunted. The second day of the deer season my eight point came in. He came in behind me and moved to the side of the blind his head stretch just enough to be seen from one side of a tree his shoulder peeking between two other trees. I took a deep breathe and shot knowing I would shoot near the lungs. He ran right into a tree it made bark from the tree scatter into the the air he ran a little further then dropped. I had know idea how big his body was I had to take seven breaks as I dragged him out of the woods to the truck. I knew he had 8 points even once I was up on him I knew he was big but again I did not know how big until my cousin and I compared bucks he to had shot a six pointer shortly after me. Once the bucks were together I know I had gotten a big boy. This deer is 200 lbs and the biggest body buck I have gotten so far I hope you enjoy him as much as me.

#32 Jim Christie

2010-12-02T10:49:00.001-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

North Branch Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

13 point

The Story: Was watching this buck since last season. This year a doe pushed him toward me. The Doe ran one way, the buck was not quick enough to change direction. I shot and the buck fall and the doe laughed at him...

#32 Francesco Passerini

2010-12-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Hillsdale, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

10 point buck 145lb stripped 16inch spread.

The Story: I went hunting with my brother -inlaw Scott Calloway on the family property in Hillsdale, MI. This was my 2nd time out hunting in my life. I never hunted before. The hunt was almost over it was just before dark we were packing up to go. I went to walk out of the blind and seen 2 bucks in the field behind me so I took a shot a dropped the buck I ended up with a 10 point monster. It was amazing. That morning my wife and I prayed for our safety and for getting a buck. He gave me exactly what I asked. I feel so blessed.

#31 Carl Eggleston

2010-12-02T10:37:00.001-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Eaton Rapids, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

7 Point

The Story: I was blessed with this buck November 6th during bow season. The weekend prior I had missed a doe and needed meat so I was ready to fill a tag. While in the tree stand I was thinking about the "miss" from the week before and several other times I had drawn back on dear but was unable to see my site pins. I noticed that my peep site was not lining up properly due to my release. I made a few adjustments just as a yearling came and layed down under me at the base of the tree I was in. After about 30 minutes several other deer came into view. There was a large doe in the group and I decided I would shoot her. As I readied for an opportunity I remembered my peep site. So while trying to align the site I made noise. The old smart doe stopped and looked at me. She was about 35 yards out. When I released my arrow she dropped below it and I missed her cleanly. I sat there thinking that I was going home without meat again. I started talking with God and said that I trusted him and if I were to get a deer it would be in His time. Withing 15 minutes I heard deer running and this buck chased a doe to within 40 yards. Thank you Lord for a clean kill. This buck had split brow tines and main beam broken off!

#30 Megan Eggleston

2010-12-02T10:32:00.003-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Eaton Rapids/MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

7 Point

The Story: Well this is my daughter Megans buck but I am entering it for her. My name is Carl and this is the second buck my daughter has taken. This is a Thanksgiving afternoon buck. Megan and I went out to our blind about 2:30pm (after way too much eating). We needed to bring lawn chairs with us since the buckets we normally set on just wouldnt do after such a wonderful meal. Shortley after settling in it began to rain. Megan was disappointed because she has lost deer before that became unable to track in the rain. She looked at me as the rain increased and said we probably wont see anything today any way. I answered back I was certain we would. Then she said "There's a buck!". I could not see it yet but told her to wait until it came closer and she had a clear shot. I was fianlly able to see the buck as it trotted toward us. I "meaped" and stopped the deer for Megan. She shot and the deer ran into the pines about 80 yards away. We struggled to see any sign of a hit until we went into the pines. I found blood right away and the deer was only about 10 yards further. We high fived and thanked God for the blessings He gives including the deer that gave its life that we may have food to live.

#28 Marvin Ballast

2010-12-02T10:20:00.003-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Howell, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

4 Point and a 7 Point

The Story: Rare Season for Bow hunting this year. October 16, 2010
Not much to brag about as far as size. Only saw the 4 point. Grunted him in - Shot the four through the spine/lung. It rolled down the hill and was still alive in a sitting position. A 7 point came in and started to attack him on and off for about 10 minutes. When the four laid his head down the 7 went to leave. I grunted him in and shot him through both lungs. Found the 7 Point 50 yards away. Both Bucks taken 20 minutes apart.

#27 Randy Peterson

2010-12-02T10:01:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Henderson, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

4 point/busted rack

The Story: It had been a couple years since I bagged a buck. I saw several big bucks during bow season but they were out to far for a shot - calling was unsuccessful. Finally I got my chance. Monday, November 29th I took a shot at a big doe and missed and so I decided to get down out of the treestand. I moved to another part of the woods and while I was walking I spotted a buck and a doe about 600 yards out in the field. I had about 10 minutes before time was up so I patiently waited. I prayed and asked the Lord " It sure would be great if that buck ran right up to me". Within minutes the buck began running full speed directly at me. Two minutes later he was just 15 feet from where I was sitting. I was ready and took the shot! Praise the Lord! As much as I like shooting bigger bucks, I'm reminded that you can't eat the antlers! You need to be willing to take whatever God brings! God is so good!

#24 Luke Prusakiewicz

2010-11-29T12:28:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Gaylord, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

8 point

The Story: After many days of waiting to see anything, I finally saw this big buck. It took 3 shots to bring this big boy down. I dragged him in and was thanking God all the way.

#23 Isaac Kerr

2010-11-29T12:20:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

North Branch

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

11 points, 175 lbs

The Story: Monday morning, opening day, Isaac, my 13 year old son, went deer hunting with his dad, Jim, and uncle, Terry, for the first time. He is an avid sportsman who loves hunting. He has been hunting small game for a few years. Isaac was sitting in his deer stand staring out into the woods for only 2 hours when a doe came by. He took a shot and missed. Then he heard crunching of leaves and a buck pops out of the woods about 60 yards away. Isaac shoots and hits him in the leg. The buck runs off only to return a few minutes later. Isaac has a second chance, this time he doesn't miss. He hits the buck in the vitals and the deer falls to the ground. He calls his dad who is about 80 yards away to let him know. Isaac tells his dad he thinks it is a 6 point. His dad walks up to the deer and counts 11 points on this huge deer! Isaac's first time hunting deer on opening day, he is blessed with the biggest deer he may ever bag in his life!

#22 Carey Williamson

2010-11-29T12:14:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Stevenson,MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

8 pnt

The Story: Well, I didn't bag this buck, my dad did!! My dad has been hunting the same land with the same fella's since I was small. My daughter was invited to Deer Camp. Please understand that she is the 1st female in the history of me to be invited to this sacred place during reg season. She was unsure if she wanted to go. They sleep in a pop-up and the toilet is in an old dairy barn. It is a toilet seat bolted to a wooden box...yuck! Em enjoyed herself all weekend walking in the woods and just hanging out. It was opening day! They made it out into the woods about 5am. About noon Em didn't feel so well. Dad thought maybe she needed something to eat. They left the blind and headed toward town. Yes, on opening day, they left the woods. After she ate some soup at a local diner Dad, asked what she thought was wrong. She said," I was so nervous about what I would do if I saw you shoot a deer." Dad gave her a hug, took her back to camp and went out to check on my son, Coty. Coty did get a big doe. Well, the next morning, Dad got 3 does. The next morning he got another doe. The next morning, he got his buck...his big 8 point!! Dad loves those kids. He loves everybody! He's a good man a great dad and a wonderful grandpa!

# 21 Chris Robinson

2010-11-29T12:10:00.001-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Casper, WY

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

5X4 (11pt including brow tines)

The Story: I know this buck was not shot in Michigan and therefore is not eligible for contest. This was my first hunting trip out of Michigan. A friend and I went out to Wyoming to hunt with my cousin Paul who moved there a few years ago. He told us about the HMA program, where we could get permission to hunt ranches free on the state game and fish website. We got licenses and permission slips and headed out. Paul was busy at work and could only get one day off to hunt with us. We camped on BLM land to keep the cost of our trip down. We walked on average eight miles a day in the mountains. I walked up on this mule deer about three miles from the vehicle. We were able to drive closer, but still had to pack out the meat and the head. It was the most work I've ever done for hunting, but it was the best time I've ever had hunting also. We were able to keep the cost low for such a great trip.

# 18 Randy Page

2010-11-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Estey, Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

10 pt with a 20.5" inside spread. Dressed 150#

The Story: We saw this buck once in August with 2 other smaller bucks while planting food plots. He had never been seen before and wasn't seen again after August. I was sitting in my tree stand opening day of bow season right at daylight when I saw the first smaller buck. The 10 pt was second. I was amazed to see this guy with a bow in my hand. About 10 minutes later he finally cleared the brush and gave me a 28 yard quartering away shot. I drew back and it was just light enough that I could barely see through my peep. It took about 15 seconds to get comfortable that I could see him good enough to make the shot. The shot was true and he went about 90 yards and piled up. He is my biggest deer and the largest that we have seen in this area. He green scored a little over 125 Pope and Young. Can't wait to get him back from the taxidermist!

#16 Tiffany and Bradley Piper age 17 (yes, twins)

2010-11-23T08:44:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck?
Harbor Beach, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
8 point buck

It was running across the field and ran past Tiff into the woods. She got so excited that she shot and missed and fell off her pail she was sitting on. The buck stopped and looked at her. She reloaded and shot again and hit it. She was so excited she couldn't stand, she was on her knees. Her twin brother Bradley took over and made sure it didn't run away. Bradley knew that Tiff was determined to get a buck this year and that he didn't want it to get away. The smiles says it all.

#14 Rob Torp

2010-11-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

In da Toolies eh

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

140 class 9 pt.er 18 inch spread, 9 inch brow tines.

The Story: Saw him opening morning, and let him go cuz I did not have a great shot. I was semi upset, till I felt God lead me in this thought, " To enjoy the day / hunt and trust Him in everything (in more than just hunting)" The next morning I moved to where I thought I'd have a better shot. As I'm sitting watching where I thought he be, I heard him grunting behind me. He was w/ another good buck and a doe. Mr Weatherby barked and Mr 9 pt was died.
I skipped gun hunting Michigan to hunt in Nebraska. So I can't win this contest, but I wanted to post him to join Smile FMs buck pole.

#13 Mercedes Farley

2010-11-23T08:04:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Corunna MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

6 Point 140lbs

The Story: My birthday is on opening day here. But I didn't get the chance to go out on my actual birthday. My uncle took me out Wednesday morning the 17th, hoping for a birthday buck. I didn't think I would get one because I missed last time I shot. But a buck came our way after a while. I watched it in the scope for about 10 minutes. As it started walking away I got at a bad angle but my uncle told me to shoot. So I got the best angle possible closed my eyes and pulled the trigger. It was a 70yrd shot. I got it through both lungs. We watched him drop. It was so cool! My first deer ever. And it was a nice sized buck! That was the best birthday present ever! And the meat is fantastic! The best part about the whole thing was knowing I actually shot that deer and not somebody else! My uncle told me that the shot couldn't have been any better! :]

#12 Chan Teed

2010-11-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)

Lapeer, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
6 point

The Story: It was opening day, at day break. I spotted him first, grabbed my rifle while he put his head down to eat apples. I pulled the trigger, shot him. He took off, and then I doubted myself, thinking "did I really get him'? Shortly after, a much bigger buck came along, but I was on a mission to find mine. This is my first deer. I hunted last year for the first time, but got nothing. A buck, on opening day! I was so geeked. But I had to track him kind of on my hands and knees, a little blood here, then nothing then there would be a drop. I almost gave up. I could hardly breathe I was so excited. My dad helped me track him, and we found him after a couple of hours. I can't wait to enjoy the benefits of my hunt, although my wife is not so geeked about it. This has been a great year. My first deer, and I was saved in April.

#11 John Watkins

2010-11-23T07:30:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
Lawrence, Michigan

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

Rat tail 6 point

The Story: As I was sitting in the woods I was talking to the Lord and said, Lord, I'm a child of God and it's my understanding that I deserve nothing but the best so how about sending me that world champion block buster buck! As I sat there in anticipation I was sure he would, and 10 minutes later I seen a deer stick it's head out and thought it was a doe, well that's how the big bucks work sending out a doe first, then it turned it's head and it was a little rat tail 6 point buck, well I thought that's how the big bucks work too sending out a little buck first to clear the way, so out steps the little 6 point and hobbled along barely able to walk due to some amature hunter had blown a hole right through it's leg, well my head hung down and my chin touched my chest with my eyes closed and I said...Lord so that's what you are asking of me? Let it be.... My point here is that I have 38 trophy racks on the wall and I am probably just a little more prouder of this one than the rest but I do have a 21 point hung, I just wanted to say thanks to all the hunters that blink, close their eyes, flinch, or take a vally of shots at a running deer, please take your time and make a true shot.

#6 Matthew De Vriese

2010-11-21T19:51:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck?

Oregon Township

Buck Stats (Points/Features)

The Story: I went into my backyard where I hunt and sat in the tree for a bit, saw nothing! So I figured what a great time to start praying and praising God...I simply asked that the deer out there reveal themselves to me...about 5-10 minutes l saw several. Then this buck shows up and it was a tricky shot but I pulled back my bow and asked God to guide my shot and arrow...this is only my second season but was told by several avid hunters that it was a perfect shot straight through the heart. I thanked God for being by my side, bringing me the buck and guiding my arrow to "bring home the bacon". He is a good God and always provides.

#5 Mark Byers

2010-11-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
charlotte/MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
10 pt 17" spread 204 lbs dressed

The Story: I was hunting near my house in charlotte when a 9pt buck with a 15" spread came in. I shot him with my bow and he went about 40yds, as I watched him I heard something else coming in. It came from the opposite direction right into the same spot the 9pt had been. I turn and saw him and could not believe my eyes. A 10pt buck. I shot him also, it was a once in a lifetime hunt. The 9pt dressed out 190lbs. The 10pt was 204lbs dressed with a 17" inside spread. Two bucks 5 minutes apart.

#4 Mark Dennis

2010-11-18T09:14:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
Evart, Mi

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
8

Opening Morning around 7am, this buck ran in very quickly and directly under me.So close in Fact I couldnt use my scope , I took a shot and it ran off. Assuming, not seeing any blood that I missed completely, I continued to hunt the rest of the day. The next day I went out and found a blood trail, followed it ,sure enough,spotted the deer Id shot the day before. On the run, shot him again. He dropped this time. Went and got my wife , showed the family. Thankful to God for his provision!!!!

#2 Mark Ignatowski

2010-11-18T08:50:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
Howell, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
7 pt....

The Story: Son's 1st deer, with a bow, our best family friend/neighbor was in hospital with terminal cancer. He loved my son like his own and was thrilled when Mark bagged this beauty on his property. My son can tell you more of the details. But I can say he was very, very excited!!

#1 - Chuck Jennings

2010-11-18T08:41:00.000-08:00

Where did you take the buck? (City/State)
North Adams, MI

Buck Stats (Points/Features)
7 Pointer, with 2 broken points

The Story: Had just watched a doe and a fawn pass by and was thanking God in prayer for the favor and blessings for getting to be out and enjoy all of His creation and suddenly there he was. A quick aim with my Dad's 12 gauge with 3 in Mags, and the shot that bagged my first buck in 23 years.

Welcome to Smile FM's Virtual Buck Pole - 2010

2010-11-15T09:25:00.001-08:00

This year we are thrilled to welcome back our guest judges Rob & Susie Trott from Great Lakes Outdoor TV show.

Your entry will be considered for one of several catagories; Best Overall, Best Female Hunter, Best Male Hunter, Best Youth Hunter and Most Inspiring Story. Winners will receive a Smile FM Prize pack including an exclusive Camo Hoodie, CD's and Jerky.

Enter your Buck for the Smile FM Virtual Buck Pole.

Congratulations to all of our 2009 Winners!

2009-12-09T10:38:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Smile FM Virtual Buck Pole! The pictures and stories were AMAZING!

Rob & Susie Trott from Great Lakes Outdoor TV have selected our winners for us and they are...drum roll please!!!!

Best Overall: #3 Male Hunter Brian Bartos
Best Female #4 Carrie Brown
Best Male: #8 Adam Emery
Best Youth: TIE Dead Even: #3 Jada Johnson & #2 Jake Hoskins
Most Inspiring: #7 Richard Brown

Congratulations to everyone. Our winners will receive an exclusive Smile FM Camo & Hunter Orange hoodie, a bag of jerky and a CD prize pack...and most importantly the honor of winning the Smile FM Virtual Buck Pole! Happy Hunting.

BEST BUCK WINNERMale Hunter # 3

2009-12-09T10:20:00.000-08:00

#3 - Brian Bartos - Traverse City

Buck Stats & important features * 10 point buck, approx. 175 lbs.

Where did you take this buck? Muskegon, MI

My brother called me up to help me with some work on a cabin my wife and I just bought. I didn't really want to travel the 2.5 hours down to muskegon from Traverse City, but I'm also not one to pass up free help. I thought I would put my bow in the car just in case I had a spare minute to hunt. My wife and I went down and we got the work done, and I got a day to hunt my Dad and Mom's place in Muskegon. They had had the property logged so I didn't recognize excatly where my trusty stand was, and consequently I got into it later than I would have liked. I was frustrated, but then I calmed down with the peaceful morning. After 30 minutes and a couple calls on my grunt, I heard footsteps behind me. I turned around only to see a bony head walking toward me. I hid behind my tree and took a couple deep breaths before putting my release on the string and getting ready. He walked right in - to within 12 yards broadside, and I drew halfway. He walked in some more and I fully drew back. I couldn't help but notice the size of the antlers, but quickly focused on the vitals of the deer. He locked eyes with me, only to see my arrow coming at him next. He ran off and I was extremely thankful for the good shot. I texted my wife and she got out of bed and helped me track the buck, only I didn't give her any details about how big he was. I was too nervous to follow blood, but thanks to "eagle eyes" we were on the trail. He went a ways, and I vowed if he went to the swamp we would get breakfast and come back. Then, just before the swamp I spotted him down by the edge of the power line! I yelled for Angie to come over and the look of surprise was classic. We had a hug before calling my dad and brother to come see. My grandpa and uncle even came out special to see it. This will always be a buck to remember for me.

WINNER Male Hunter #8

2009-12-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

#8 Adam Emery - Eau Claire

Buck Stats & important features * 7 point buck, 13 1/2" inside spread. Scars on his forehead from fighting with other bucks. Main beams approximately 17 1/2", G2 tines ~ 6", G3 tines ~4".

Where did you take this buck? Mt. Pleasant, Isabella County

The buck was a day after Thanksgiving blessing from above. I sat in my treestand patiently on an evening hunt with no activity for several hours. About 30 minutes before dark, the unmistakable crunch of leaves echoed through the brushy tangle in the woods about 150 yards in front of me. After a few minutes, I caught a glimpse of antlers, but did not have a clear shot opportunity. I got into shooting position hoping that the buck would walk into a clearing, but it turned around and I lost sight of it. A few minutes later, the buck came back and stepped into a very small shooting lane through many branches about 90 yards away. I settled the crosshairs onto the mighty beast and squeezed the trigger. As my eyes readjusted after the shot, I could see that the buck was down! I climbed down from my tree, walked over to the buck, and saw that it was much bigger than I anticipated. Needless to say, I spent a few minutes as light faded thanking my creator for his awesome gift!

WINNER--MOST INSPIRING Male Hunter #7

2009-12-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

#7 Richard Brown - Rudyard

Buck Stats & important features * 7 point buck - about 175 pounds.

Where did you take this buck? Rudyard, Chippewa Co.

I am submitting this for my husband. He had his leg amputated in Sept. after a long year of surgeries trying to save it. He was supposed to finally get his prosthetic the Monday deer season opened but the doctor took that day off to hunt. He has a deer stand out back as we have enough property he has always hunted out back. Being determined to hunt he rode the four wheeler to the stand and climbed up the ladder each morning and evening. Tuesday morning, he says, he saw nothing - then the sun came up. Suddenly there was deer walking around in the field then he saw the buck he wanted to shoot. It took two shoots to put it down, rode the four wheeler back to it with our two smaller childern. He climbed off gutted it and tied it to the four wheeler to bring it back home. I am proud of my husband as with all that has happened this year (and just last week lost his mother) he has not let it get his down. He doesn't think of himself as disabled, he may not be able to carry things himself but there isn't much of anything else he can't do.
He did get his prosthetic a week ago and is doing very well getting used to walking again.

WINNER Female Hunter # 4

2009-12-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

# 4 Carrie Brown - Fennville

Buck Stats & important features * 10 points, 145-150 pounds 15" spread. Longest tine is 10"

Where did you take this buck? Fennville, Allegan Co.

Hello! My story begins this summer.I hunt our neighbors property. What a blessing it is to have 40 acres of prime hunting in your back yard! My husband set out our trail camera in July and in our first set of pictures was a large buck in velvet. My husband named him "Out Back". We were so excited to see such a large and beautiful deer. In prevous years it had seemed that the our local deer population consisted mostly of does and young bucks. We would keep putting the cameras out throught out the summer and into the fall, but would never see Out Back again. Where did he go? Did he leave the area? We hoped he was okay.
As hunting season was getting closer I started thinking about where I was going to hunt from this year. My husband uses tree stands, but I just am not totally comfortable shooting a gun from "up above". I like it on the ground. As clumsy as I am I would end up falling on a deer before shooting it. So my sons Clayton 8, and Lucas 4 headed out to find a spot and build a blind that could accomidate the three of us if needed. It was so much fun! We found a nice tree in what I thought was a good location and went to work gathering sticks and putting in seats. I was so excited to get out and hunt! So later in archery season my brother-in-law went hunting in a tree stand about 50 yards from my blind. He comes back in the morning all excited-he just shot a seven point buck. It ran right by my blind and died. Okay, I will admit it, I was a little bummed. I was happy for him but pouting at the same time. "That was supposed to be my deer" I thought to myself. What was really exciting was that he showed me a scrape not to far from the buck. An active scrape just 30 yards from my blind! How cool. I kept checking on it and it was getting "freshend up" I was getting very excited. On the Friday before opening day we put the trail cam out on the scrape. Saturday morning my husband brought it in. Four pictures on it. Could this be it, are these pictures of "the one for me"! DOES! it was all does. Oh the ups and downs. The next day I was up early and so pumped to get out. I packed a water bottle bottle and some snacks my Husband joked with me "typical women, bringing grocerys" I laughed and just said " I am prepared to be out a while". We debated on wheather I should take my 20 ga. or his 12 ga. We decided the 12 would be best, just in case. I got out to my blind and settled in. I love the mornings when the forsest comes alive at day break. Then it happend Sunday November 15th 7:55 a.m. "Out Back" walked up to the scrape and into my freezer! He stayed around! 10 points of beauty! Thank you God for blessing me with such a great story to tell. This sure beats the button buck (my first kill) of two years ago.

WINNER Youth Hunter #3 TIE

2009-12-09T10:16:00.000-08:00

#Y-3 Jada Johnson - Gaylord

Buck Stats & important features * 9pt. buck in velvet 201lbs live and 170lbs dressed, on nov.27 shot with a 308cal

Where did you take this buck? Otsego County

Well my dad took me hunting for the past four yrs and i was looking for a good rack buck i had past small one's over the yrs but we had game cam photos of this buck still in velvet and that's the one I wanted! We live on a large tract of land and it is well managed for whitetail,we don't shoot small bucks ever so they can grow and it works.(QDM) We waited for the right wind and got it on nov. 27th,it was spiting snow and cold that was a good sign they would be hungry,we had a food plot with winter greens in it and knew they were hitting it . When we got to the blind they were there already and we had to bump the deer off the field but it wasn't long and the doe's were coming back,the buck came in behind them i wasted no time my dad said it was the velvet nine pt.,he was videoing it for our dvd series(Bigboysadventures) he said he was on it and to take it and take it i did, I pulled up my 308 and pulled the trigger and shot it though the lungs it ran about 100yds and dropped but I did not know that at the time but I was praying I would find it and it came true. I called my mom right away and shared with her what I had CAUGHT haha what I shot, a nine pt. in VELVET in november how cool is that GOD IS GOOD! (p.s. what's up with the 18 and older)

WINNER Youth Hunter #2 TIE

2009-12-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

#Y-2 Jake Hoskins - Grand Ledge

Buck Stats & important features * 7 point, 13 1/2 inside spread, 148 pound UP Buck

Where did you take this buck? Iron Mountain, Mi; Dickinson Co.

My Dad and I went to the U.P. to Grandpa's house in Iron Mountain, Mi to bear hunt during the 3rd season and deer hunt during the Youth hunt weekend. We did not have any luck bear hunting and did not see any deer the first morning of the youth deer hunt. In the evening, my dad, Grandpa and I went back to the deer hunting spot. After an hour, I told my Dad, who was watching the other way, that I saw a deer. It was my buck standing 40 yards away! The buck looked behind him and my Dad told me to get my gun ready. However, I thought the buck would see me so I did not move. The buck walked into a field, stopped and looked right at me. He wagged his tail, turned and started trotting away. My Dad whistled, the buck stopped 104 yards away. I squeezed the trigger and my buck dropped with a shot to the neck from my .30-06, 180 gr. core-lokt bullet. I had my first buck at 12 years old.

Youth Hunter #4

2009-12-08T06:15:00.000-08:00

Y #4 Donovan Quist - Mc Bain

Buck Stats & important features * His buck is an eight point. The inside spread is approximatly 14 3/4. The longest tine is 61/4.

Where did you take this buck? McBain Missaukee County

This buck was taken by my son Donovan. He is 10 years old and got this buck September 27, 2009 during the youth hunt. He shot it with a bow, he was in a tree stand and the buck was about 15 yards away. He made a kill shot in the liver, the buck went 120 yards and died. He took his buck in the afternoon it was windy and damp. His Uncle took him hunting ( his Dad was on a trip ) on family property. He's grandpa dressed out the deer for him. We are all very proud of him and give God the glory for giving him the shot and the ability to do it.

Hunter #9

2009-12-08T06:09:00.001-08:00

#9 Tim Schlehuber - Gaylord

Buck Stats & important features * 9 point with a 14 inch spread, perfectly symetrical besides the point on the one side that never grew

Where did you take this buck? Mackinac County

This buck story started a year and a half ago. I decided to read the bible cover to cover for the first time. When I came to the Psalm - Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart - I wrote it down and put it on my dresser. I finished the bible right before bow season this year and I looked at the Psalm and said after 20 yrs of hunting, this year my hearts desire is to shoot a big buck. I told my Mom I had finished the bible and about the Psalm, and told her as a small gift from God that he would give me the buck this year. I prayed all through bow season and never seen a buck. I started opening day of gun season with the same prayer and at 2:30 pm I shot a nice 6 point. It wasn't the buck I had prayed for but thanked the Lord and was thoroughly satisfied. I then turned my prayers to my wife and stopped hunting. On Thanksgiving day, the weather was starting to look better for hunting and my wife convinced me to give it another try for the big one. I agreed and headed to my blind. It was dark and about 5 min to shooting hours and I could see a deer in the baitpile. It was then 2 minutes to shooting hours and I could see it had a very nice rack. After watching it for 10 minutes I could identify the 4 points on one side for a restricted tag. I took the shot and put him down in his tracks. Immediately I thought about my prayers and that Psalm and gave praise to the Lord. Then I thought my wife is going to kill me cause she still hasn't got a deer yet. God was faithfull and I never doubted his ability to answer that prayer. That beautiful 9 point is being mounted and will forever be a reminder of that Psalm.

Female Hunter #5

2009-12-01T17:41:00.000-08:00

# 5 Traci Stein - Lansing

Buck Stats & important features * My buck weghed 120 pounds field dressed and was a 3 point. He should win the longest single tine award. On the left he had 2 points but on the right he had a single 9" tine (he was a 4-point, he just forgot to grow his other branch!! :) )

Where did you take this buck? Battle Creek MI, Calhoun County

This buck, my very first deer, came to me on my third time out ever hunting. I decided mid-day on Saturday Nov. 21 that I'd go out for a couple hours before dark that eafternoon just to get out of my husband's hair (he's a medical student at MSU and really needed to write a paper!). So I went out and decided to try a new tree. My Dad helped me find a good spot. He's been hunting since he was a kid, so he knows a good spot when he sees one! So I got up in my tree around 3:30pm and starting watching. Squirrels were everywhere and were continually tricking me into thinking a deer was headed my way. At about 4:10 I suddenly heard a crashing sound coming my way from behind one of the three trees I was standing in the middle of about 4.5 feet off the ground. So I got my gun up and popped the safety. Of course in my excitement I used one finger to pop it and it made a loud clicking sound. The crashing sound stopped and I thought for sure I had made too much noise. Instead, he kept on coming. Next I saw him through my scope, he was maybe 20 yards from my tree. He was close enough that he took up the majority of my scope, so I found his shoulder, whistled at him so he'd stop and look, and then....I really don't remember pulling the trigger or feeling the gun kick. All I remember is watching his tail drop and see him take off down the hill. I knew I hit him when I saw his tail drop like that. I watched him run to the bottom of the hill, near a swamp, and then he vanished. Next thing I did was call my Dad, who was also hunting. He told me to look for hair and see if I hit him and he'd head my way. In all my excitement I had a bit of trouble determining where exactly he was when he stopped and I shot. I ended up finding blood before hair. Then I knew for sure I hit him! Once my Dad found me we followed his blood trail and found him about 200 yards away, in nearly the exact spot he 'vanished'! I got him with a near-perfect shot through the shoulder. I hit him in his left atrium, my husband says if I'd hit his ventricle he wouldn't have run so far. I'll have to work on that for next time (yeah right! ;) ), because dragging him up that big hill was an awful lot of work! All in all I am very proud of my first deer, even if he isn't a monster. I'll get to remember this story all winter as we enjoy the meat. Thanks God!

Male Hunter # 6

2009-11-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

# 6 Kevin Spencer - Flint

Buck Stats & important features * 8 points green score was a 143.total weight dressed out was 184 pounds.

Where did you take this buck? Lapeer,Lapeer County

I don't want to be misleading.I shot this buck opening day of the 2006 season.I'm so proud of this buck and now that I listen to your station every day,I cant wait to get one this year so I can put it on your buck pole.I still cant believe he walked in on me.When I seen how big he was I couldn't stop shaken.Even though I didn't shoot him this year, I prey you can still post this .Thank you for your prayers for us hunters we need 'em.

Male Hunter # 5

2009-11-23T17:42:00.000-08:00

#5 Robert Walker - Saginaw

Buck Stats & important features * 14 and a half inch wide 6 point

Where did you take this buck? Linwood, Bay County

Just before it was light enough to shoot this buck came in toward my wifes stand. Lisa (wife) always gets the first deer of the year. (thats just the way I do it). But the deer headed out before she could see good enough to shoot. "Just 10 more minutes" she said. Any way, she text me and said buck coming your way. We were hunting about 150 yards apart. Over my left shoulder is her stand. So i'm looking over my left shoulder seeing nothing, I figure he either bedded down or went out another way. Then I look to my right and there he was about 50 yards out in the thick brush. I hit the doe bleat, he starts moving to where he will pass to my front at about 30 yards. I'm looking for a place to shoot and find only one. And thank the Lord he stopped perfectly in the lane. I shoot, he runs 80 -100 yards piles up and there you have it. A successful day in the Michigan deer woods. Praise the LORD!

Male Hunter # 4

2009-11-23T17:35:00.000-08:00

#4 Wayne Barlett - Lake City

Buck Stats & important features * 9 points with a 14" spread

Where did you take this buck? Lake City, Missaukee

I didn't catch it. I shot it with my new Ten Point crossbow!! It was the first time in three years I've returned to the woods to hunt deer with a bow. I missed a 8 point buck (same deer twice) with my old bow and won't hunt if I can't put a kill shot on a deer. This year is the first for Mi. to open bow hunting with a crossbow for anyone over 50. So I returned to the woods and bagged my best buck ever with a bow, a nice 9 point

Female Hunter # 3

2009-11-23T17:29:00.000-08:00

#3 - Susie Sherill-Trott - Columbiaville

Buck Stats & important features * Five point, 140 pounds.

Where did you take this buck? Curran, MI , Alcona County

I shot my buck on November 18 at 2:45 PM in our deer camp in Curran, MI. It was a nice 5- pointer. Rob invited me to join him in his blind as I hadn't been seeing many deer at mine. Rob had taken a 4 -pointer out of the same blind that morning. I made a heart shot on my buck at 120 yards and God as always was great and Rob and I found the buck a short time later.

Youth Hunter # 1

2009-11-23T17:24:00.000-08:00

#Y-1 Darin Johnson - Sumner

Buck Stats & important features * 8 point thick beams
17 1/2 inch wide spread
around 200 lbs

Where did you take this buck? Gratiot County

My son and I were hunting opening morning when we saw this big buck come running thru the neighbors field. My son Jacob is 14 years old and this is story....At first I didn't think it would come by us, because it was over by my uncle and his friend, and my uncle didn't have time to get a shot at it and it went into some pinetrees, where my uncle's friend was and it was running full force, and he couldn't get a shot at it. It ran out of the pinetrees into the open field by my grandpa, he tried to use his whistle but it didn't stop it, and then it ran towards my dad and I, where my dad yelled at it about 50 yards before it went into more woods. The deer stopped and looked at me then that is where I took my shot. The deer stumbled and ran 25 yards, we waited 5 minutes to let it die, and then my dad and I tracked it with a good blood trail because I shot it thru the heart. So I called my brother to bring the truck so that we could take it and hang it in the barn. The thing that is so special is that I was with my dad and it is the biggest one that I have shot. I was the only one to get a deer opening morning. It is a once in a life time shot so I took it. I love the sport and the quaility time that I get to spend with my dad. I like to make jerky with some of it also.

Female Hunter #2

2009-11-23T17:12:00.000-08:00

#2 Mary Poletti - New Lothrop

Buck Stats & important features * Husband-5 point
45 minutes later...I had a 7 point.

Where did you take this buck? Owosso, Shiawassee County

My husband and I were out hunting together the morning of Thursday, November 18, 2009. My husband wanted to leave for the morning. I said, before we go, let's walk the ravine. We got to the south end of the property, and we both decided to sit for a little bit. Chris was not in his spot more than about 3 minutes when I saw him stand up and shoot. A very nice 5 point!

Once we hauled the deer to the top of the ravine to field dress it, I said to my husband, "You don't need me for this. I think I am going to walk around that bend and sit." He agreed. After I found a spot and about 7 minutes elapsed, I looked up to see a very nice 7 point. I shot him and dropped him! Yes, a much bigger buck---and 2 more points than my husband 's buck! (He's a little mad at me now-but he says all of the meat is worth it!)

Female Hunter #1

2009-11-23T17:03:00.000-08:00

#1 Katy Negley -Harbor Springs

Buck Stats & important features * Spread is 18, dressed weighed in between 125-130. I shot with a 300 savage at 100 yds. away.

Where did you take this buck? Town & County. * Harbor Springs, Emmet

I shot this buck at 7:30 opening morning with my dad. The buck came in about 10 before I could get a shot off. The buck stood head on for about 10 min. which allowed me to calm my nerves down some! Dad and I hunt together every year and it is a great bonding time for us. This is the largest buck I've ever gotten, and it is getting mounted!

Male Hunter #2

2009-11-23T16:54:00.000-08:00

#2 - Andy Motz - Gaylord

Buck Stats & important features * main frame 8 point with split brow tines makes it a 10 point.
The buck weighed 145 pounds and scored just under 110 inches. 14 1/2" inside spread and the longest tine is 7 1/2" long. The deer had almost perfect antlers as the tine lengths did not vary more than 1/4" from left to right.

Where did you take this buck? Town & County. * Elkton, Huron

Sitting opening morning, I was able to have my best friend and long time hunting buddy in the same small tract of land in Huron County. At about 10am, Brad had not seen anything, and he decided to climb out of the tree stand and come sit in my box blind with me. Neither of us had seen a single hair all morning and had just decided to go into town to get lunch at about 11:15. Just as I put the video camera away, Brad said "there's a doe right there". I pulled out the muzzle loader and put the scope on the doe. I was just about to fire when he said "WAIT! There is a buck right behind her...A BIG BUCK!!!". I looked up and saw the buck traveling along the river going to my right. I had to pull the barrel back into the blind and put it through a different window, all with the doe watching every move. Once I got the barrel in the right direction and found the bucks shoulder 25 yards away, I fired and the deer bounded about 20 yards and stopped. The deer stood there, behind a tangle of tree branches, long enough to let me reload my muzzle loader. Then he laid down. I decided to hit him again and shot him in the back and he expired. I had not taken a GOOD look at the deers antlers because I get Buck Fever really bad if I do. So when I walked up on the buck, the antlers were sticking up from the grass. I had to stop right there and thank God for the harvest and the trophy that He allowed me to take this season. Best of all, I was able to share it with my best friend, Brad.

Submit your Buck to the contest

2009-11-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

Register your Buck for our Virtual Buck Pole!

Share your Big Buck take with us and enter the Smile FM Virtual Buck Pole.
This year's contest is being judged by Rob & Susie Trott from Great Lakes Outdoor.
Bucks must be taken from the 2009 season and enteries will be judges on buck, story and picture/video.
Entries accepted until December 7th. Winners announced on December 9th. 4 Catagories will be award, Best Overall Buck, Best Buck by Male Hunter, Best Buck by Female Hunter, and Best Buck by Youth Hunter.

Male Hunter #1 - Dennis Clark - Charlevoix

2009-11-18T08:45:00.001-08:00

#1 - Dennis Clark - Charlevoix

Buck Stats & important features *
He should score 125 -130, which would make pope and young

Where did you take this buck? Town & County. *
Charlevoix

Shot this beast on Oct 2 with bow. I seen 5 different buck that were smaller and I usually pass the smaller buck bye let them grow up. Anyways, I seen that he had good mass but didn't know what he was, being on the other side of an apple tree. All the bucks went behind me heading south. Well an hour went by and a nice 7 pointer that I seen earlier came back, that I could have shot, but didn't. Then 5 min later this buck with the heavy mass came back, this time he step out same spot behind the apple tree then he started to heading north. I still didn't know how many points just that he had nice mass. He got to my shooting lane and I normally stop the deer by making a noise, but I didn't. I dont know why I didnt but I should have. I shot and the shot was back to far because he was walking. Yes a gut shot deer. Not good. After I shot it started to rain, and rain and rain and rain. We found blood but not much. Tracked it about a 100 yards. We couldn't find it. That night it down pour rain all night. Day break it was sunny so we went back to try and find something more. Never did. I prayed and prayed having a feeling in my gut someone would find him. A week went by and duck hunters were hunting a gravel pit 660 yards away from where I shot.. The duck hunters seen the only the deer tail out of the water, thinking it was one of their duck decoy walked over and said holy smokes.. Lucky for me one of the hunters was a DNR officers name S Spiegl. He asked around who was hunting in the area and I got the buck back.. There was a chili cook off in Charlevoix that Saturday at the church where my wife and I where just about to sit down when I got the phone call. The pastor seen the excitement in my face and came over and got the full story. Most hunters would have cut the horns off and left the deer, but Thanks to a Nice guy I got my buck back.unfortunately, the meat was no good even being entirely smurge in water, but the horns taste good.. Thats my story and I'm sticking to it..You can tell by the picture, I just got a riff of the deer and it didnt smell to good.. No coyotes other animal ever touched him. I did shoot a doe with my bow week before rifle season right thru the heart. And yes I did make a noise to stop the deer. Leason learned...

Smile FM Virtual Buck Pole

Congratulations to all of our 2010 Winners!

#25 Micah Wood - Best Overall - Grand Prize Winner

#9 Sarah Vroman - Best Female Hunter

#10 CJ Jeffers - Best Male Hunter

#29 Donnie Burke - Best Male Youth

#15 Jozlynne Albert - Best Female Youth

#7 Anna Gooden - TIE - Most Inspiring

#17 James Taylor - TIE - Most Inspiring

# 20 Cindy Asher - Honorable Mention

#8 Bill Cortez - Honorable Mention

#3 Jeff Juhl - Honorable Mention

#33 Dan Patrick

#32 Jim Christie

#32 Francesco Passerini

#31 Carl Eggleston

#30 Megan Eggleston

#28 Marvin Ballast

#27 Randy Peterson

#24 Luke Prusakiewicz

#23 Isaac Kerr

#22 Carey Williamson

# 21 Chris Robinson

# 18 Randy Page

#16 Tiffany and Bradley Piper age 17 (yes, twins)

#14 Rob Torp

#13 Mercedes Farley

#12 Chan Teed

#11 John Watkins

#6 Matthew De Vriese

#5 Mark Byers

#4 Mark Dennis

#2 Mark Ignatowski

#1 - Chuck Jennings

Welcome to Smile FM's Virtual Buck Pole - 2010

Congratulations to all of our 2009 Winners!

*******BEST BUCK WINNER*******Male Hunter # 3

***WINNER*** Male Hunter #8

***WINNER--MOST INSPIRING*** Male Hunter #7

***WINNER*** Female Hunter # 4

***WINNER*** Youth Hunter #3 ***TIE***

***WINNER*** Youth Hunter #2 ***TIE***

Youth Hunter #4

Hunter #9

Female Hunter #5

Male Hunter # 6

Male Hunter # 5

Male Hunter # 4

Female Hunter # 3

Youth Hunter # 1

Female Hunter #2

Female Hunter #1

Male Hunter #2

Submit your Buck to the contest

Male Hunter #1 - Dennis Clark - Charlevoix

BEST BUCK WINNERMale Hunter # 3

WINNER Male Hunter #8

WINNER--MOST INSPIRING Male Hunter #7

WINNER Female Hunter # 4

WINNER Youth Hunter #3 TIE

WINNER Youth Hunter #2 TIE