Bud advises hunters discuss how to handle two shots on the same deer before hunting begins

Let me give you a scenario that has become increasingly happening and can and will destroy fun times and even relationships.

Let's say that Ben is hunting along the edge of a picked corn field, and Bob is hunting along the edge of a known swampy bedding area. Ben sees a nice buck approaching, and he shoots an arrow. He sees that arrow hit the buck. Naturally, the buck accelerates and heads for cover.

Bob, not knowing that Ben has shot the buck, also shoots, and he sees his arrow strike. The buck falls to the ground after a short run.

Bob climbs down and is walking toward the fallen animal. Suddenly, here comes Ben. Both hunters were completely unaware that the other hunter shot at and hit the deer. Now, the problem is who claims the deer?

Bear in mind that these two hunters had hunted together for several years and were very good friends. There were definitely some strained feelings trying to decide the outcome. What do you do?

This is a real situation, and I have been in the awkward position of being involved in it. What I strongly advise is to discuss the situation before hunting starts. Some camps have an acceptable resolution that the first vital hit on the animal gets possession.

For example, if Ben's shot hit the deer in the leg and Bob's arrow hit the lungs, it would be Bob's deer.

Some hunting camps that I have been in figure the first hit equals possession. I disagree with this, but if that is their agreed solution, I accept it and abide by it.

Many times, I have witnessed long-time friendships dissolved over this same occurrence, and it is sad. Usually, if I am the only successful hunter in camp, I share the venison with the other guys. I have no problem doing that.

Every hunter in camp wants to harvest a deer, but that does not happen very often. Feelings can be hurt, and I have heard great friends cuss and scream at each other because Bob did this or Ben did that. It can ruin the hunt for not only them but for the rest of the guys in camp. That is not what any of the hunters wanted or planned on.

If everyone involved in the deer camp sits down and discusses what will determine possession of any deer in question before hunting starts, then everyone involved will be advised and understand. This may be a rare happening, but it can and does happen.

No deer is worth losing a friend. Don't get me wrong. I love being successful, and I love venison. But my friends mean more to me than any deer. I know that may sound crazy, but it is true.

Sometimes envy and jealousy can be your worst enemies, especially in deer camp. But they don’t have to be. Maybe one of the fellows has a fancier truck or camper. Maybe he has a fancier weapon or some other reason. The next thing you know, it starts causing disagreements. Deer camp and deer season should be enjoyable, fun times sharing hunting adventures.

Maybe Bob and Ben hunt differently than you do. That is alright. I have had some hunting partners who preferred hunting in the afternoon, but I like hunting mornings and afternoons. I always felt like you can’t and won’t get a deer sitting on the couch or staying in bed. But we all hunt the way we prefer, and we don’t try to change the other person's method or techniques.

Deer hunting can be so much fun, and it is a lot more fun when you are sharing your adventures with friends, making memories while disagreements are not happening. Disagreements can happen, but losing relationships is not what you want. Discuss possible scenarios in advance and make sure everyone is advised before it happens.