I Totally Blacked Out - IOWA Bucks

[@tracygrieder6217]

Kaitlyn don’t ever feel the need to apologize, and definitely your to young to put all that stress on yourself. I love your videos, yeah your struggling, that’s hunting. Coach yourself to breathe and pick a spot then squeeze your shot off. Your a great example for me. I also struggle, but I’m getting there. Pick your head up, God loves you, I love you also. Please don’t quit.

[@mattkrapfl6349]

Exactly. I've got a younger brother who lives to post his life on fb. I dont have fb. Anyway he sees everybody else's big deer. I always remind him dont pay any attention to other people's deer.

[@darrenapple2200]

Amen!!!

[@darcyfloreani9722]

That was real. Thanks for sharing. Only another hunter can understand how you feel. Keep grinding

[@bobbyanderson7233]

You’re just in a bit of a slump. Keep your head up and do not apologize. Never give up. I still enjoy watching your videos.

[@chuevang9857]

Not a lot of people have the courage to say or post that they missed a buck, me included. You are one up on a lot of hunters. Keep your head up!!! This will only make you work harder and when you do kill that big buck it will mean even more. Stay safe Kaitlyn!!!

[@Bobb1julie]

Hi Kaitlyn , i'm 87 with over 100 deer kills with the bow .Over 50 years of chasing tails...Up a tree ,stalking , ground blinds . Matters not where I was , It was and still is the thrill of the hunt that I wait every year for .From day one and as you progress through the season you gradually physically and mentally begin to wear down . Then it becomes a mind set game..There is no other challenge in my opinion than to harvest a deer with a bow..Don't give in to your subconscious ..that's the easy way out..Take a couple days off , shoot a few arrows to stay tuned in..You have almost 60k subscribers backing you..Me too...i shot 2 doe this past season and still going strong..YOUR BUCK GOT AWAY UNSCATHED..THIS TIME.. You didn't wound it..Be thankful for that..Your presentation is 5*****.,Your articulate and a fair photographer ,,I'm better but that's a story for another day ..ask me sometime..One photography tip for you if I may ..When you zoom please slow down and be methodical with your zoom method .It's just a little bit too fast.. My opinion only..LOL...Continued success .I hope to be here when you reach 100 ,000 subscribers......To be cont...

[@derekedgley5074]

You’re out there doing it, is why I and many others watch your videos and that’s most admirable. If you care to re-visit the many videos you’ve posted, you will clearly see the immense progress you’ve made and taken us along with you. One muffed shot happens to the best of us, be it with rifle or bow and it takes real maturity and courage to share. Your outpouring is heartfelt, but really you couldn’t have said it more succinctly- it was a perfect morning with hopefully many more opportunities to come and share with your audience

[@according2petey25]

Words of wisdom.. Never worry or care what others say.. You're an awesome person Kaitlyn with a passion for hunting.. Buck fever happen's to everyone who ever has hunted....🦌🦌 Keep doing what ya love doing🦌🦌 Greetings from friggin cold Vermont......🤣🤣

[@Ranger.Vt.]

Exactly ! Anyone that’s hunted long enough has had it happen. And you’re right about it being cold here in VT… 🥶

[@according2petey25]

@@Ranger.Vt. yup.. Below HOLY crap zero this weekend🤣🤣 with snow coming Monday👍👍 yippy..

[@Maskcz]

Thank you, again, for posting your struggles along with your successes. Enjoy the outdoors and most that hunt understand. My girls like watching your hunts... you inspire!

[@Kurtdog63]

Been hunting deer with all kinds of weaponry for many years. I still have some of those freak out episodes. Part of hunting. Good encounter with decent buck. May want to wack a few doe to get your confidence back. Good to appreciate he wasn't wounded, only educated.

[@blkgld4evr]

My dad always told me, if you worry about what people think, you spend your whole life worrying. Stop putting so much pressure on yourself. Enjoy your time in the woods and relax. It is good to struggle at times it builds character. Everyone struggles at one time or another. Keep your head up and keep pushing on. We got your back. Keep posting the great videos.

[@andrewlyon4692]

You don't worry about us viewers! The reason why I watch your videos and am inspired by you is because of your heart. Your passion to chase whitetails is compelling and your videos are top notch. It's hard when all of us have those opportunities on good bucks and drop the ball. It happened to me twice last season. It's a blessing to get to enjoy God's creation in the deer woods. I'm older now but if I can end my seasons just processing a couple does to enjoy, I'm grateful. And this to shall pass is what I say when I find myself under dark clouds. Your awesome and don't forget that. God bless you Kaitlyn.

[@WildInKY]

Amen!

[@farontoller3837]

Don't hang up ya bow rifle to easy you doing great with ya bow ya wasent relaxed you pulled ya bow you were looking at the deer not ya site

[@tonystraub6212]

Don't give up, things like this are what give excitement to the hunt the next one might be even bigger. Your young you have many more deer ahead of you, good luck to you.

[@LuniZuni]

"The Hunt Continues..." (Ending words of this video). You just answered your own question to the 'dilemma of this particular experience' with that statement. Thank you for NOT hanging up your bow. Listen Kaitlyn, I am 64 and have been bowhunting before Holless Wilbur Allen patented the compound bow... One thing I've learned in all my bowhunting years... "you never stop learning... you never stop learning about your quarry and from your fellow bowhunters". You have no idea what I learn from you and your videos.. You have no idea how much you inspire me and countless other hunters. You are mature beyond your years... I love what you said, "I'm just glad I missed him and didn't hit him fully" not many can say that. I hope I'm around when you publish your book on bowhunting... I'll want a signed copy

[@kevinrudat4800]

Don’t forget why you started doing this in the first place. As long as you learn from your mistakes you’ll be a better person for it. You don’t always have to harvest an animal to have a successful hunt. Enjoy the experience. Keep up the great work.

[@courtneyandmattwilson]

Huge thumbs up for showing what really happens out there! It’s all part of the experience!

[@stephenbartush2237]

Definitely better to be comfortable with your shot!!!! Happy huntin' this season!!!

[@KayKelley]

Hey girl, you are an inspiration to me and give me the want to hunt. Don’t beat yourself up , I know this was a little while ago, I hope you are feeling better!

[@felixacosta4824]

Let me repeat what so many of your followers have said..wait not only followers but supporters of you! When you have hunted long enough you will go through tough hunts and seasons they you would just go away. But dont apologize, every hunt/sitting is a learning experience. We are with you every step of the way. You got this!

[@dannylamb9041]

Ok, as a veteran bowhunter of over 40 years I have nothing but respect for you. You missed, it happens, it sucks. I can accept a miss, I can accept a bad hit, I can even accept a poor shot selection in the heat of the moment "if you own it". Those things happen in our game. I have had seasons just as you are, and like you I hung up the bow until I got my head straight. It's only fair to the animal. I didn't quit, I hit the targets, worked on my form and got my head right and then got back out there. You are doing it right. 👏 As hunters we are going to miss, we will eventually make a bad hit, we may even take that bad shot. The important thing is what we do after the fact. Be honest, accept responsibility, and don't attempt justification. These things earn respect and define one's character. Great content and keep after them!

[@steveschisler7553]

Katlyn, take a breath and relax. Okay, now think of the real reason you’re out there and why you fell in love with bow hunting in the first place. Challenge, quiet enjoyment, being one with nature and closer to the animals you’re pursuing…right? You have all that in your hunt and more! A close encounter with a mature buck is a gift from God! Don’t cry over the miss, rejoice in the opportunity! Your real hunting audience doesn’t just watch for kills, we watch to share all the above things with you! Thanks for bringing us along honestly and simply! That’s why we watch. I didn’t even see a buck this year but it was my best year in years! I shot 3 does with my crossbow and my granddaughter got her first deer, a doe with her rifle! Would I rather have gotten a big buck? Well I just will say I’d gladly give up a chance at a buck of a lifetime for one of my young hunters to get their first deer! You would too…

[@whitetailhabitatandhunting]

Kaitlyn, love the videos, keep it up. Every hunter who has ever lived has experienced buck fever, your doing what every hunter has done. No matter what happens we'll still be here and watch cause we love hunting in general. It's not all about the harvest, its the chase, prep, and seeing everything come into play even if it doesn't work out all the way. God bless!

[@SnakeBitten94]

The agony of defeat. I love that you were willing to share with us, and be honest with yourself about it too. Nobody likes to show that side of hunting. Keep up the hard work, it'll pay off for you! Love the content!

[@wilcoxce]

Don't measure your channel's success by animals on the ground. Measure it by the story lines and entertainment that you provide. Which are outstanding. We all enjoy watching. Keep up the good work and have fun!

[@kirbycreekmo]

I suspect anyone that would be critical of you hasn't hunted. It rarely goes down as planned. All those little lessons add up and can be drawn upon in the future, including the disappointment. It all makes those successful moments that much sweeter. You had a better 2021 than the vast majority and you worked for it. I'm very impressed as I know how much more difficult it is to do with a camera. Thank you for sharing your hunts with us.

[@jamesmcdonald927]

We all have these kinds of years so don't let it get you down. Been 3 yrs for me so keep doing what you love and just relax. Thanks for the videos they are great.

[@zacharylemaster1996]

It happens to the best of us. Keep your head up and just keep flinging arrows until you hit your target! Only takes one shot to get your confidence back 1000%

[@pauln1176]

Kaitlyn we all have these periods. I struggle hunting, let alone filming and editing and posting AMAZING content! I have learnt so much from you and I'm 51 from Australia. Your video's have helped me so much! Don't stop and never give up! Can't wait for the next Video !

[@blind-dateoutdoorssportsma547]

Kaitlyn, I was thankful to see a video of yours without a thumbnail of a dead deer. Thumbnails are spoilers, like a kid sitting behind you in a movie theater that has seen the movie 10 times and is telling you the ending before you've even had a chance to see the 1st 5 minutes of the show. As for missing, it broke my heart. So I really hope that you are open to my continued sharing of knowledge, so that the misses will become much fewer and your joy of the hunt overflowing. First, I know that you like the tree saddle but, a steady and consistent shooting stance is as important as a steady and consistent sight anchor and release of the arrow. A lock-on or climbing tree stand would help you greatly in that area. And again, a single vertical pin is the best option. This is because of the way our eyes see and perceive what we see. Regardless, don't give up, don't give in. Like the many others, I enjoy joining you on your hunts, experiencing a hunt, like the reading of an untold story for the 1st time. Thank you.

[@mitchhall5942]

Just came over from the Huntsman channel. Never worry about a miss. I missed a buck at 16 yards from a ground blind a couple days back. I have shot 3 times this season and made 1 kill, and I am hunting private land. Bow hunting is tough!!! I hunt to fill my freezer. You can’t eat those horns and they don’t make a good soup!!! If a buck tag is all you have, then I understand, but does are just as tasty. Keep it up!!!! I will be watching and following.

[@jonathanwhite9051]

Thank you for being so real and showing that great hunters sometimes have a tough time. You never need to apologize for being human period. We all have times when we aren't confident with our bows, but I feel it's a part of it you just have to go and fling arrows till you figure it out and are confident again. Hunting is hard, its hunting there's so much you can't control. Just hunt and enjoy every second of it, we all enjoy your hunts no matter the outcome you do a great job period! Keep at it, you are excellent at what you do!

[@deeh6200]

It’s happened to me before and still does on occasion. It’s just a part of being a bow hunter. I’ve been a bow hunter for about 40 years and anyone who tells you they just don’t miss hasn’t hunted long enough. Get back in the saddle so to speak. Keep posting videos and I’ll keep watching them. Good luck on your future hunts.

[@mattsmillie2131]

I've experienced situations similar to this and I can't provide advice to you. This happens to everyone but it shows great character and maturity that you shared this. Even the greatest bowhunters struggle being successful year after year. The amount of time spent working for these split second moments seems ridiculous to most people but us bowhunters are a special breed. Keep sharing these videos so we can continue this amazing journey with you.

[@bbhunting1]

Kaitlyn, We appreciate everything you post. Some of us get our hunting fix through your adventures. Keep it up...

[@nicktoth6651]

That’s what keeps us coming back! You’re doing great, perseverance pays off!

[@shawnclark4151]

I know you probably see so many comments and don’t read half of them but I’ve also struggled with target panic and it’s very hard to break. But just an idea that helped me tremendously, get your glen del target and put it at 25 yards from your tree, climb up just as if you were hunting and draw back hold your pin on the target for as long as you can without shooting…do this 5-6 times in a row before shooting an arrow. Shoot once and repeat these same steps! Really helped me and I’ve killed 2 of my biggest bucks these past two seasons! Good luck Kaitlyn and keep your head up

[@terrycarpenter7480]

Hunting is a passion, its sitting still in quiet place and being at peace, Mind, Body, Soul. (plus venison is delicious) Hunting is what we do to relax and get away from it all, you need to decompress, relax and let the hunt come to you and not force it. We all miss, We all get target panic sometimes, We all screw up a hunt! I Love your channel and all of your content, so don't ever feel stressed to provide us with "Perfect Content"! All of your content is perfect, and it's real and amazing and we appreciate all of it. So thank you! Please don't get discouraged and frustrated, Don't Listen to those that try to bring you down, they usually have thing going on within themselves that causes them to bring other down. Take a big breath and remember what hunting really means to you, and what it was to you before you filmed it. Then reset and let it be that again. Hopes this helps

[@mammydammy]

Been there, done that more than a few times. I've cried, I've gotten nauseous, I've even slapped the hell out of my own face while up in the tree after missing. Sometimes you have to get angry before u start aiming and while youre aiming in order to shake any target panic that may arise. It also helps to keep your pin on the target after the shot until your arrow hits the target. The older I've gotten the less Ive missed. It's the thrill of the hunt that keeps us going. Love your videos.

[@jefferyburch4808]

Girl everybody goes to those times, especially all bow hunter have there UPS and there Downs. You just have to take a deep breath and have fun. Don't worry and you don't ever have to apologize. Your a great hunter and you keep it real. Just think about it God is giving you the opportunity to hunt. Keep doing what you do You will get one.

[@rodswitzer3806]

I really like watching your video. Please don't quit I had a similar situation this year and many other years. It just make the next one you get that much special

[@ErelasInglor]

Thanks for sharing this and being real! Chin up and enjoy the season, part of hunting is showing folks that it doesn't mean you'll always bring home something, and often when you least expect it you will. Maybe this is odd to you, but I found this video inspiring because of the genuineness of the situation you're in and how most hunters should be able to relate. 🤗

[@savageCI]

Don’t hang up the bow keep at it that’s how you get through these things, don’t worry about getting the best video angle just enjoy the hunt and all us viewing will enjoy it just the same

[@nickstacy6696]

Hunting deer is always a learning experience. Even when i harvest an animal I always look at what I could have done better or what not to do next time. If hunting was easy and you never got the feeling we hunters do when a deer walk out than hunting wouldn't draw use in and still our passion for doing what we do. Every hunter has missed wounded a animal! Its a true hunter that stands up and tries to be the best that he or she can if use as hunters didn't try to get as good as we could with our tools than I think you would not be a true hunter its how we learn adapt and overcome even ourselves. Love watching your content and so glad you post the struggles along with the successes.

[@trynsurviven2440]

Excellent video very interesting and informative. New subscriber here from the Huntsman. If you don’t mind my saying you have accomplished 10 times more in this video on your hunt than most people ever will…myself included. It’s easy to get discouraged but don’t let it get you down. Instead turn it around into a positive direction and learn from it. Thank you for sharing this.

[@lynettewilliamson3013]

Kaitlyn your videos are a inspiration to me I keep waiting for the next 1. You have so much courage to put yourself out there for everyone to see. There will always be haters an trolls and Karens but who cares about them your as real as can be and thats what makes you and your videos so awesome to watch. Bow hunting is full of ups and downs, been there myself like alot of other people we just keep trying and learn from our mistakes and keep going on. Take a few steps back and remember why you love doing this. You go girl you got this!! Take care

[@donaldjones5701]

Don’t stop posting this is the real world of deer hunting we all miss or spook them it’s human and that’s what makes them so damn fun to pursue! I enjoy watching the real world bow hunting so please keep it coming. Take care and hunt on!

[@Danyang1]

Keep your head up. You got this. It happens to everybody. Just got to remember why we got into the outdoors in the first place. Though it can be a tough season, got to enjoy the outdoors. I think once you get back into your happy place and forget about how the season is going and just hunt, you’ll be right back at being just as confident if not more confident in yourself!

[@tmalonso]

Some of the most talented archery hunters I know talk about making a bad shot from time to time…of course we’re toughest on ourselves, but clean misses are a lot better than dead end blood trails. Don’t give up, exposure therapy can eventually fix all anxieties ;)

[@superbowhunter92]

Hey there! I am new to your channel after connecting through Tethrd. I have been bowhunting for almost 30 years now... hard to believe! But I have very much enjoyed your content and down to earth style on your videos. I wanted to send a word of encouragement. For those of us who go all in and spend the time scouting, prepping, and hunting... we have ALL been where you are. Anyone that says different is not being honest with themselves. I missed the easiest shot on the buck of a lifetime in a very similar mental state. So I absolutely know what you are going through. But don't feel pressure or stress to entertain us... you said you are not having fun.... So get back to that. Have fun, enjoy, and do the things you are doing for the love of bowhunting and you. If you make it fun again, everything else will fall in place. I got back on track and so will you. :) Keep on it and enjoy the outdoors!! DW

[@oldagd1139]

Please don't stress. What makes your content good is that it is genuine, it's raw and it's real life! We have all been through this and we will all stick with you through the patch. You will get back where you want to be. Don't give up!!

[@johnnyearliwine6698]

We all miss at some point. Buck fever can do it but don't stress out over it. Don't give up. I really enjoy your videos. I am 70 yo and I have had my share of misses. I still get in the woods and do my best. I enjoy my time in the woods. Don't less pressure you bring on yourself get you down Just relax and enjoy the outdoors. My peaceful time I spend in the woods does wonders for me. No pressure and relax. Love ya and don't want to see you quit.

[@timothymcknight9485]

I was right along, with you, Kaitlyn. Watching him come in, figuring when he got by that tree, I could draw my 🏹. I always tried, to get the pin on the deer and count to 3, then settle in for the shot. Tried to settle myself. Worked for me, but not always. When you shot, it startled me. I was not ready for it. I have been there, my lady! All bowhunters have. We, who watch your videos, feel for you!!! You showed us an honest reaction. Tis why we love watching your hunts. Never give up. The next time, could be the right time!!! Thanks for posting this video, Kaitlyn!

[@danengelhard6977]

Hey there! As bow hunters we have all been their. Me and everyone I hunt with have seen the struggles of bow hunting first hand and considered hanging it up. Be strong and breath through it, your confidence will return. I applaud you for posting the struggles, most channels only show the positive side. Your awesome! You got this!

[@glennchesser3501]

One little bit of advise if I may, 35 years ago I wanted to quit because I was exactly where you are. Rushed shots, missed shots, and worst of all bad shots. A mentor suggested that I needed some kills under my belt to help with the lack of control I had with my emotions at the critical time. He suggested killing does to get those kills under my belt. After a couple of seasons and the experience of success I was allot calmer when it counted. Even put a note on the inside of my upper limb that said stay calm and pick a spot. Saw it ever time I drew my bow. Lastly, most occasions you have allot more time to put your pin where it needs to be than you think, don't rush. A missed opportunity feels crappy but not a bad as a miss shot or a bad shot. DON'T QUIT, you will get there. Much luck going forward.

[@hardearned]

I’ve been there myself. It’s hard to describe that feeling. Eventually you will crawl out of that whole and see some daylight. It’s the highs and lows that always keep me coming back. The want to to do better and be better is inside most of us…….you included otherwise you wouldn’t care as much as you do therefore you’ll see some daylight again. Good Luck!

[@craigwagner327]

Once you see your shooter,forget about the rack,stay calm,pick a spot. The best way to fight off buck fever is experience in the woods. Trust me, it will get easier. Love watching your videos.

[@recyclingspecialist]

I have the same experience. Buck feavor is frustrating and real. Good advice, once you decide to shoot do not look at the rack focus on the kill zone and where he is going to going to give you the chance. Play it in your mind before it happens. When he steps here I draw, when he is in this lane I shoot. Sounds dumb but it works to keep the anxiety and buck feavor manageable. I too enjoy watching your real life hunting experience. You have what it takes to get better, that is the passion to hunt, enjoy, and the care for an ethical clean shot. The critics have no idea what is real in the woods. Good luck, never give up, and ignore the snide critics.

[@darrenapple2200]

Hang in there. Everything will come together. Just keep shooting your Bow as much as possible and always remember to hold that pin and get it steady on the target before releasing the arrow. You just shot before you were steady on him. That's all. 🙏❤

[@kevinlawson2156]

It happens to the best of us. I suffer from anxiety & understand that part of things. It's tough self filming & having the worries of getting the shot in camera! Some yrs. are worse then others but that's part of hunting. There is always going to be somebody being critical but just brush them off! Sad people have to hate like that! You stating that the animal deserves your 100% being able to make a clean harvest is exactly from the heart of a true hunter & what all should do! Never be apologetic for speaking what you feel or do. The true ones will always stand with you & catch you when you fall! 💯 ❤

[@tacticalsnoopy]

Love your channel, keep at it. My 7 year old daughter just started hunting and I plan on showing her your channel.

[@windellpeacock5645]

Don't be so hard on yourself, you are a hell of an archer and you will figure this out. Love your videos and thanks for sharing your adventures.

[@weli1864]

Hey girl, don't ever ever give up now matter what and no matter what anyone says. It's hunting and it happens. You are still young, and as much as I hate to tell you, I have been hunting all my life, that won't be the last miss. And it's the outdoors, there is no need to stress about anything, it's the one thing that no one can take from you. You even said in your video, "it's a beautiful morning". Even if you don't shoot, it's still awesome to watch your videos. Keep your head up. 👍

[@aaronchristensen1714]

Have been reading the comments and they’ve been fantastic. We as hunters should support each other and it is great to see it in action. I used to do some long distance hiking and the best advice I ever got was don’t quit on a bad day. If you can live with the decision after an amazing day then quit then but NEVER let your emotions at a particular moment guide a decision you might regret later. A hiking acronym is HYOH which stands for Hike Your Own Hike. Do what is best for you and not what others expect of you. HYOH could just as easily mean Hunt Your Own Hunt. Look forward to seeing your videos in the future and what you decided to do.

[@fredgillick3071]

Hey Kaitlyn, We, I enjoy your videos. I can't get out anymore because of my back. Your videos are like I'm out there enjoying the outdoors and waiting for a buck to come in. Your not the only pne that has missed a deer. Your a damn good hunter. You put in a lot of time, scouting, practice and preparing for your hunts. There's always tomorrow. More deer will cross your path. Never worry about us, we're here for you. If we thought that every video was going to be a kill video, it would be boring. Like you said at the end, " the next video you get a deer ". Take care and be safe.

[@MrPysiaki]

Sooo emotional, thank you for sharing Kaitlyn, thank you for your words. God bless you!

[@shauncox1171]

Don't stress,your out there putting the time in,we all make mistakes. I won't have a season this 2022 year due to a blown Achilles. I'm watching your videos as my alternative. Your very knowledgeable and wise beyond your years. Keep it up

[@ricknicely2006]

Thanks for being real! Keep being Authentic don’t ever change! Don’t give up! Remember why you started hunting! It’s about the memories & experiences & enjoying it with friends & family! It’s the challenge of it. Your on a journey & you will have mountain tops & valleys just keep climbing.

[@WildInKY]

Kaitlyn, I want to say something. Don't worry about performing for people and don't beat yourself up for the miss on that buck. It's crazy how similar a thing happened to me a few years ago! I was hunting a buck I named "Split Brows". He came out one evening and slowly worked his way towards me from right to left, just like yours. I was very nervous. Finally he presented a broadside 23 yard shot. I drew and tried to aim but for some reason I couldn't see through my peep sight. I remember opening both my eyes looking again and then shutting one and shooting. The shot hit about 6 feet to the left of my aim point which ended up a few feet in front of the deer! I was devastated! How could it be?? I replayed the scenario over and over in my head and then I remembered that I had trouble looking through my peep. I started wondering if it was possible to close my right eye and look through my peep with my left eye instead of the correct way (I shoot right handed). I went home and tried it and I could. Guess where the shot hit?? 6 feet to the left of center!!🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️ I had never done that before nor have I since but hey, crazy things happen when we hunt big bucks!! Hang in there, things will get better!! 😀

[@dennisoosterbaan6872]

Hey Kaitlyn ... Don't sweat the small stuff and it's all small stuff. You get to hunt in Iowa with people who care about you. Put your life on a scale and you'll see there is plenty more good stuff to way out balance missing a deer and the anxiety you put on yourself. Choose to be happy and choose to learn for this experience. Life Is Good!

[@robbielong7356]

Hey Kaitlyn, thanks for posting the video I think a lot of hunters feel that way. I actually felt the same way this year after a really rough day. Makes you want to stop hunting. But we both know that you are not going to stop just like I am not. While it is devastating practice, and continuing to put yourself in good spots and having the courage to take the ethical shot when it is presented will help ya get through it. Good luck.

[@dkdogs]

You’re doing awesome! There are several moving parts to what you’re doing. Self filming is hard enough now add on to that the stress of finding that perfect buck to make everyone “happy.” You absolutely can’t forget to enjoy the experience. Second to that is the moment of truth. Take a couple deep breaths. Tell yourself you can do this and tell yourself that once again. Pick a small target in the kill zone and that’s the only thing you focus on. Tell yourself to slowly squeeze the release. Keep focused on that tiny spot and let the release surprise you the bow fires. Don’t pull your head at the last second to see the hit. That will always cause a miss or bad hit. I’m hunting in Clarke county Iowa most of the time. If you ever need a hand tracking or hauling just let me know. Hopefully some of this helps.

[@christophergalemore1644]

It was a tough year of hunting. Take a deep breathe and it will come together. It is nice to see midwest big deer. You hunt in some beautiful country.

[@chrislawson2103]

Keep posting girl...you keep it real and honest, and thats the content I believe most appreciate!

[@desert_hawk]

Kaitlyn, don’t apologize and don’t hang up your bow. I went through this when I was young. Practice and practice again your breathing and shooting. Any infantry solder will tell you that you MUST keep breathing so you don’t get tunnel vision. Work on your fundamentals until they become second nature. You have this girl. Keep it up.

[@andyzachow9903]

This is hunting..it's a rollercoaster..the lows are the worst..but that's what make the highs that much better..it's hard hunting whitetails..and so many of these hunting shows are obsessed with antler score and Yada yada..but a major reason I enjoy ur channel and channels like the hunting public is because you guys are normal people hunting on mostly public land and it's real,it's honest..so keep at it and remember most of us will keep watching u and ur channel whether u get a deer or not..cuz it's how hunting is..if u miss..it happens..so you don't need to get a 150 class buck every sesaon for us to keep watching..keep practicing..what helps me is I shoot on the xhale always..cuz that way it's in my head to take a deep breath ..

[@slybomer]

Don't beat yourself up too bad Kaitlyn. Enjoy your time in the woods. Believe me when I say chasing an injured deer, just to loose it is much more disheartening. Hope you feel better... Enjoying your videos.

[@russclewley6945]

You are doing great! Great hunters get in a slump! Don't put pressure on yourself so much. Remember it is for fun! If you just have fun the rest will follow. There are lots of big name channels struggling this year. My brother who is an awesome hunter with many BIG deer to his credit messed up two chances this year at great bucks. DO NOT QUIT.

[@jeffbuzzard6837]

You are doing well, please don’t worry about what others think or say, those that criticize won’t tell about the deer they have missed, I am so very proud of you for showing what real hunting is all about and not just showing your good hunts, there is not one hunter that has taken every deer they have had there sight pin on if they say they have never missed then they are not telling the truth, hold your head high babygirl you are an amazing Hunter.

[@L2FlyMN]

Don't feel bad, we all go through those hard times. Buck fever is a real battle! Hope you get your confidence back, & don't give up.

[@jasonborek3944]

I really appreciate you posting this video. I have had the same thing happen to me the last few years. combination of buck fever and anxiety. keep hunting don't ever give up on your passion for hunting!!!

[@johnlange4804]

Kaitlyn, I love your channel and it is heartbreaking to hear you struggle. Your videos are authentic and that is what makes them so awesome! Don't let the haters get you down!

[@heyman6010]

My son went thru this a few years ago. I had to sit him down and have a heart to heart with him. He wounded 3 shooters in 4 seasons. He was so anxious to get an arrow in those deer he wasn’t taking the best shot. He was taking the first shot. I told him to remember what it feels like to have a shooter walk away. It sucks. Yes. But you leave with another possible encounter. If you wound that deer. That chance is probably gone forever. My only advise is. Don’t give up!! Practice patience!! And remember. It’s far better to watch him walk. With the lost opportun

[@michaelzimmerman7646]

Been there myself girl!! Missed,made bad shots, fretted and stewed about it ,and you name it!! Don't beat yourself up! Keep going back and do what ya love! I've watched several of your videos and love the content! It's good info and real to life! That is what other hunters need!! There's no need to apologize because we've all been there if we hunt! Keep up the good work and God bless you!

[@ronbruce5007]

Kaitlyn you inspire more people than you know. Don't feel like you have to prove yourself to your followers every time. Make it fun for yourself again. Stay humble and know we love watching you show so much passion for what you love to do. Hit or miss. Don't worry about the people that are critical. Just enjoy yourself we do. We enjoy watching.

[@darralldougherty5388]

Always a downer when you go through shooting problems. One thing that helped me this year is the Bowmar nose button. When the point on that thing hits your nose it's a quick reminder to pick a spot and aim. You might try it if you aren't currently using one.

[@bradbishop-atfulldraw7491]

Happens to us all, no big deal. You put too much pressure on yourself to deliver for your followers but in the process forgot what is truly important and why you are hunting in the first place. Take some time, regroup, refocus and reflect on all the blessing you have had this year. Remember, you can screw up over and over again but they usually can only screw up once. God bless you Kaytlyn and enjoy the ride. You have a lot to be thankful for😉.

[@markymarkproductions7726]

We all have them years. I had a year so bad I revamped every piece of equipment I had. Because noway a person could suck that bad right? No worse feeling. That next year when it breaks and your successful is the best feeling know to man. Keep your head up gurl. Full grown men out here missing spikes daily

[@johnw.9572]

Keep your head up! No need to stress ,there will be many more opportunities for a shot. Just do what I do and hunt for yourself, for the peace and quiet in the woods , watching nature, time to yourself and time to think of next years strategy lol. Being in the woods should be a stress reliever! Keep up the good work!!!

[@58BowNut]

Don’t apologize, I felt the same way all season! Hunted so hard and just couldn’t get any decent bucks to get in shooting range that I was really stressed that if I did I’d panic and blow my opportunity. Well I shouldn’t have stress because the season is over and I still have my tag. It’s difficult but remember this is for enjoyment and the love of the chase! Hang in there you’ll be fine!

[@deansmith9383]

Never ever give up every one has this at one time or another you are a amazing deer hunter your day will come you will settle down I think one of your problems your having is trying to make a good video when a deer comes in take a deep breath focus pick a spot and let the bow do the work you got this your my favorite lady bow hunter your hunting is real hunting you do all the work you are amazing I promise never give up I see a booner in your future I no it can be frustrating when you put in so much time if you have to put the camera up for a while and focus on the hunt we know your out there giving it a 110 % so go get them girl you got this ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🦌🦌🦌🦌🦌

[@deansmith9383]

Try coming up from the bottom instead of dropping your sight from the back of the deer down if you come up from the bottom a lot of times the deer will react to the bow and drop coming up from the bottom helped me a lot I would either heart shoot him or if he drops I would double lung him if you come down from the top and he reacts the the bow you normally hit him high or miss all together practice coming up from the bottom this summer and I’ll come help you drag him out good luck young lady and great hunting 🦌🦌🦌🦌🦌

[@htown1475]

Keep grinding. It happens to everyone. Shoot your bow to gain confidence. Take a few does to build more confidence. Relax and have fun. Don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself.

[@brianpersin3028]

Happens to all of us. Went through a whole season in the past. I had real bad target panic. I would release my arrow and look to the side to see if I hit my mark, not following through with my shot. You'll be alright. Stick with it kid. Love your videos.

[@charlesprehn669]

Keep your head up. Buck fever is why we keep coming back year after year! That’s the rush we’re looking for. But that’s also the low all in the matter of seconds. Keep shooting that bow. Keep posting that’s the real hunter. People never hunted if they haven’t missed

[@willmann6479]

Everyone has those times where nothing works out the way they want. I love watching your videos and seeing you conquer the hunting world. Stay strong lady you’ll come out of this just fine.

[@justinwolber1435]

I can 100% garentee your are having the same season as probably most of us it's been hard this year. Keep your head up and push through it you got it.

[@shaunwatson7986]

Don't stress. A lot of guys are having a tough season! Just get out there tomorrow! Being in the woods is better than not! 🏹🦌😁

[@jhockenberry02]

We’ve all had bad seasons , trying to get our confidence up and keep our emotions under control. Thanks for posting kaitlyn 😊

[@chriswhalen71]

Hang in there. We have all been there. I have to take a deep breath and remind myself "steady, squeeze, follow thru". It helps. Sometimes it's not meant to be.

[@127TROOP]

I've been slowly going through your videos trying to work out what makes them so watchable? it's not the actual kill...there are plenty of those on YT....its you. You that I find fascinating, endearing, honest and above all...real. many of us who follow you follow you for that reason, yes you are a damn fine bowhunter, but you put into context what everyone feels at least once. You record whats real and personally it makes me look at myself at times to assess me at that moment rather than the imagined me, the wannabe me. We all want to get that perfect shot, we all want to be the best we can be, but we all forget that we are only human and that we have doubts, fears, realities we don't want to think about until they present themselves to us at the wrong moment. Your videos bring all of our issues into sharp focus, showing the reality of who we are as archers, bowhunters....and human beings. Kaitlyn, never stop being you, never be anything except honest, and most of all never stop showing us who we are......thank you for your honesty, in a world of lies, you are a bright light of hope.

[@KaitlynMausOutdoors]

Thank you. That means a lot!

[@jerrodladner3019]

Most of us watch your videos for the entire hunt not just the kill . Love your vids .keep up the good work everybody misses...

[@Evilrp]

You, young lady, are merely living similar experience we all share. Love it, live it and learn from it. This is what makes good hunters. Best of luck on future hunts.

[@josephtreadlightly5686]

Target panic can happen on a deer, turkey, pig or a 🎯. It can come and go away similar to a tornado. My episode happened 20 years ago. Unfortunately a good hunting buddy of mine never got a chance to see it go away. He died of non-Hodgkins lymphoma b4 I got a handle on it. I'm sure his passing helped me put things in perspective. My problem was that I would draw below the target. Trying to lift my bow @ full draw 6" felt like I was trying to lift 500 lbs. with 1 arm. The brain just wants to release the arrow when this happens. I put down my bow & starting practicing with my recurve that I used for bowfishing. With the recurve I aim as I pull back & release @ my anchor. Weeks of this practice & a new release for better discipline for the compound got me back in the game after a few months over the summer. A good routine helps during the ups & downs in life. Take care.

[@inteq9]

Thanks for your videos. This kind of video is what makes for the best hunting content, because its real. Keep at it!

[@chasingaccuracy3864]

Stay strong and never give up Kaitlyn. You obviously have a lot of love and encouragement from your followers. Hold your head up and push through Girl. You got this! 💚