October is a prime time for bowhunters, and for veteran hunter Chris Walker, it’s the month that holds the most promise. With the rut just beginning to stir and bucks actively searching for does, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of deer behavior patterns. This year, Chris’s strategy focused on hunting scrape lines—well-established routes where bucks leave their scent to mark territory. His patience and preparation would pay off with a massive buck down, a true trophy for any hunter.
The plan was simple but effective. Chris had spent the previous weeks scouting the area—an expansive tract of forest in central Ohio—where bucks had been active. The woods were filled with old-growth trees and thick underbrush, providing plenty of cover for deer. Through his trail cameras, Chris had identified a few mature bucks, one of which was a heavy 10-point he had dubbed “The Ghost.” The buck had been using a particular scrape line for the last few days, making it an ideal spot to set up his stand.
On opening morning of October, Chris arrived at his hunting spot well before dawn, ensuring he would be in position well ahead of the deer’s movement. The weather was cool, the wind was in his favor, and the woods were quiet—perfect conditions for the hunt. He climbed into his stand, a little nervous but confident that the setup would work.
As the first light of day began to break, Chris could hear the sounds of the forest waking up. Squirrels chattered in the trees, and birds flitted overhead, but the woods were eerily still—just the way he liked it. By mid-morning, he had seen a few does and smaller bucks, but nothing that met his criteria. He continued to watch the scrape lines, knowing that patience was key.
Then, around 9:30 a.m., movement caught his eye. The Ghost emerged from the timber, slowly walking along the scrape line. The buck was larger than Chris had anticipated, and his heart began to race as the massive 10-pointer approached. Chris remained perfectly still, waiting for the buck to step into the perfect shooting lane. As the buck came into range, Chris drew his bow and released the arrow. The shot was true, hitting the buck cleanly. The Ghost bolted, but after a short run, he collapsed within sight.
Chris was overjoyed as he climbed down to recover the massive buck. The hunt, which relied on the key strategy of hunting scrape lines, had paid off with a perfect shot. This big October buck was not only a testament to the effectiveness of scrapes as a hunting tactic but also a culmination of careful scouting, patience, and perfect execution. Chris’s successful bowhunt would be one he would remember for years to come, proving that the early days of October are truly a magical time for bowhunters who know how to work the land.
