Mike Findarle’s Utah Muley
Sunday Sept 9, 2018, 4:30AM: Mike Findarle of Vineyard, Utah heads out in the dark with his bow to a ground blind in the Wasatch Mountains, near Heber City Park East, Utah. Approximately 6 miles in Findarle finds his spot and gets set up under a tree with some ground cover from tall grass and a portable blind. In place at about 7:00AM, Findarle holds still until the action begins around 9:00AM. Hearing movement in the quakies, he spots a mule deer doe, then sees a buck rubbing at 45 yards. Findarle draws his bow and holds on the buck. Realizing he can get a closer, cleaner shot he quietly releases his draw. The buck continues to feed down to within 35 yards. In anticipation of another shot opportunity Findarle draws and holds. Again, the buck turns and Findarle must slowly release his draw. Continuing to feed downhill, the buck finally moves into a clear shooting lane. Using his 25-yard pin, Findarle makes the perfect shot. The entry is right behind the shoulder and the exit is low because of the downhill shot. The fixed broadhead pierces the heart and both lungs, continuing on through and sticking into a tree. All useable meat and stomach remain intact while leaving a massive blood trail. The buck runs about 30 yards before tipping over. By 9:30AM Findarle fills his tag and it’s now time for the pack. The buck is in quarters and hanging by around 11:00AM. Findarle then carries out the deer on his back, making two arduous trips before finally loading the buck in his jeep and heading home at 6:30PM. Findarle recalled, “I was there for bigger bucks but it was just so perfect how it happened. And it’s the biggest buck I’ve shot hah”.
Equipment:
– PSE X-Force
– Carbon Express Maxima Reds
– G5 Montec Fixed Blades – 100 grain
Requirements For This Particular Deer Tag:
UTAH – Joining the Dedicated Hunter Program, hunter agrees to harvest no more than two deer during their three years in the program (with a max of one deer per year). Must complete 32 service hours on wildlife projects, anything from wildlife management and area maintenance, to education and releasing animals. Must take an online conservation and ethics course. Also have a current Utah hunting license and each year obtain a Dedicated Hunter permit. Plus fees.
