I went out this eve with my crossbow.To make a long story short,I think I missed her,at least I hope I did. The range was just under 30ds and I used the top dot which is set for 20. I heard a hollow thump,I was sure I got her but not a drop of blood and no arrow that I could find,it got dark. I sure hope I missed her.
Similar experience for me this season, Doe at 15 yards, compound bow, right at dusk, shot, thump. Found the arrow with feces all over it, no sign of blood. Chose not to pursue her, went back the next morning and found her within 30 yards of the treeline she was headed for. Meat was ruined, 60 degree weather overnight. If there had been ANY sign of blood I'd have gone looking for her about 11:00 p.m. (3.5 hours later), but no sign of blood at all. Entry indicated a liver shot, entry blade cuts looked like they might have actually nicked the rib cage. Exit was about 3" back of the ribcage. Good luck... hope it's cold overnight and that you find her quick in the morning!
Well,I went out this afternoon and looked for my arrow,still couldnt find it.When I was riding the 4 wheeler,deer stand in trailer,I saw white down by the creek so I dropped the deerstand off and set it up then went back and found her. She didnt run 60yds if it was light or a blood trail I could have found her,makes me sick.She was ruined as it only got down to 50s and it was already the afternoon.If I would have found my arrow with bllod or something on it,I would have looked a little harder. The arrow went in a little far back then exited in front of her shoulder,guts closed up the first hole.I think Im gonna quit bow hunting in the evening.
I feel for ya. It sucks,but it happens.
At least you know. Sounds like both of us had the same entry point but mine went back instead of forward. Hang in there...
the main reason that I don't bow hunt in the late evening