David - seriously, I thought twice about posting my story, figuring I might get ripped a new one on a public forum. But even though it didn't end the right way, it was still an incredible experience that I figured you guys would be interested in reading about.

Sealice - let's catch up on email so I can hear your story. My buddy that had the cow tag in your NM unit shot his cow this morning. Apparently they showed up yesterday at the gate and there was somewhere in the neighborhood of 500 elk on the opposite side of the fence.

Coming from a rifle background, losing an animal like that is not something I'm used to. But I know it's a part of hunting, particularly archery hunting - it may not be a good part, but it's reality that we lose animals now and then. Just need to take what you learn and try to minimize how often it happens. I appreciate that you guys have been there and understand. I've seen Salmonella aka HunterHarry's stories and pics of his hunts and game room - makes me feel better that you can relate.

salty aka WAcoueshunter