There’s nothing quite like the thrill of hunting a monster buck. But capturing the experience on film while hunting solo? That’s a whole new level of challenge and excitement. This is the story of my self-filmed hunt for the buck of a lifetime.
The Decision to Self-Film
I’ve always admired hunting shows and YouTube videos where hunters skillfully capture their own adventures. Determined to do the same, I invested in a quality camera arm, a compact camcorder, and a remote control for hands-free recording. I knew self-filming would be difficult—balancing stealth, movement, and the perfect shot—but I was ready to accept the challenge.
The Hunt Begins
It was mid-November, prime rut season, when I set out to a spot deep in the hardwoods where I’d seen consistent buck activity. I set up my stand near a natural funnel, where two ridges converged, creating a perfect travel corridor. Carefully mounting the camera arm to the tree, I double-checked the angles, ensuring the trail was in frame. Now, all I needed was patience.
The Arrival of the Monster Buck
As the sun dipped lower, the woods grew quiet. Then, I heard it—the unmistakable crunch of leaves. I slowly panned the camera in the direction of the sound. There he was, a monster buck, his antlers massive and symmetrical, moving steadily down the trail. My heart raced as I hit record, capturing his every step. He was at 40 yards, closing the distance.
The Challenge of Filming and Shooting
Self-filming adds a layer of complexity. I had to keep my movements minimal, ensuring the camera stayed focused on him while I prepared my bow. At 20 yards, he paused, perfectly broadside. It was now or never. I drew my bow as smoothly as possible, trying not to bump the camera. I released the arrow, and the impact was true. The buck ran a short distance before disappearing into the brush.
Capturing the Memory Forever
I replayed the footage, my hands shaking with excitement. I had captured the shot perfectly—the buck’s approach, the arrow’s flight, and his final sprint. Recovering the deer was emotional. Not only had I harvested a monster buck, but I had documented the entire experience on film, preserving the memory forever.
Final Thoughts
Self-filming isn’t easy. It requires patience, practice, and persistence. But the reward of reliving the hunt, frame by frame, is worth every second of effort. This monster buck will forever be remembered—not just in my mind but on camera too.
