220 inch whitetail buck shot at 7 yards!
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- Опубліковано 25 лис 2020
- This amazing story chronicles the life of a giant whitetail deer Don named "Mel" after Mel Johnson's world record typical whitetail deer. However, this deer becomes more than just a trophy. Follow along as Don Higgins makes choices that very few, if any, deer hunters would make. Not only is the story amazing, but it becomes a time of reflection for Don as well. Years of preparation turns to success but not without choices. This story will really give the viewers a glimpse into the man that is Don Higgins.
Enjoy.
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“As hunters, we should be judged more by what we choose not to shoot than by what we do shoot.” Great quote. 7:43
but why is that ? are antler size the only thing we judge by ? It should be the moment, each deer big, small and in between are the best to me... I shot a 181" buck with my bow and 3 days later my 12 yr old son shot his first buck a small fork horn and I was more worked and excited about that then the 181.. go figure.. I have no problem with someone chasing antlers, just do not judge others that do not take the time, effort or have the resources to chase the big boys.... and I am not knocking Don.. just giving another perspective....
@@UncleBuckysOutdoorAdventures if you listened in the video, he chose not to shoot because of the deers age, not the antler score which was over 200 at the time. As for a first buck for a child, nobody is going gripe about a kid shooting a spike or a 4 point as a first buck. That’s an amazing feeling for a child. But as I was always told, your next buck should always be bigger.
@@jazzdude904 no one has a right to gripe no matter who takes any legal deer.. and why should your next buck always be bigger ? that puts you in a box.. some folks will never shoot bigger bucks because of genetics .. does that mean if they shoot a smaller buck they are less a hunter ? not arguing, just debating, love to hear others views
@@UncleBuckysOutdoorAdventures I hunt with the mentality that I’m always going to make sure my next buck is bigger than my last. I’d like to see deer live a good long life and I’d rather let younger, smaller bucks live on to get bigger, breed, and enjoy their life. My mentality is that if you harvest smaller deer, eventually you’ll thin our your herd since less bucks are rutting and your genetics will be unfavorable.
@@jazzdude904 yeah
I’d say after two or three deer you should be chasing at least 6-8 points
“Dream big, because Gods reality is bigger than your dreams” - great words
Just shared this video with my 14 year old son. I wanted him to hear those words .
@NavDocRet I pray that before you leave this earth that you will say God is real because once you leave this earth you will know 💯that He is, but that will be too late❤️
@NavDocRet not attacking you friend. I understand that doubt and fear give some the feeling that God isn’t real. I urge you to talk to someone. Reach out to us - praying you find peace and that something spikes to learn more about Jesus. He died for you and loves you
@NavDocRet psst...covid is a hoax...
Words to live by
By far the best hunting documentary I've ever seen. Prior to the shot when Mel stops, looks to the heavens and closes his eyes. Was he saying thank you and it's time? I don't know, but so amazing. Fantastic tribute to a true woodsman/man and a deer.
Never cried over a hunting video before. God has blessed us with your story - thank you for sharing God's work with us.
This video is so much more than hunting. Absolutely incredible.
I could not agree more I have now watched his video three times in a row for some reason this video means a lot to me and it’s not even my video
This *is* what hunting's all about for me
Getting ready to head into the woods and the part where you waited for your grandkids brought tears to this 32 year old fathers eyes. Thats what its about my friend
There is no crying in deer hunting you baby. Lol!
@Octavian The Hooper well my response to him must've been deleted by youtube or something. Good luck little man. I'm getting ready to head to the woods myself. And on a side note just realized I said I'm 32..... im 33 lmfao. Enjoy the time ya have cause sooner or later you start forgetting how old ya are lol
Absolutely
This man is the definition of a sportsman and a hunter
Shooting an animal for no reason is not a sport
Don Higgins, if you ever see this comment, I just want you to know, you are a great man! You have values that, I’m afraid, are not too prevalent in this day and age. You are a good role model for young people, and even some not so young people, too!lol thank you. Ya got a good name too! Same name as mine!
-Don
I done the same with my 200" deer. My brother in law and I hunted him 4 years and wanted to experience the recovery with him. It is a bittersweet moment.
This documentary is one of the most inspirational deer hunting documentaries I have ever watched! Great job and congratulations !!
It's not even hunting anymore when you see the same deer every year for 4 years. That's like raising cattle.
Agreed its a nice buck for sure but that's where it stops,public hunting is not even remotely the same, but anyway congrats to have the resources to get yo this point
The most Humble Man I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to as a 25 yr older these are the role models our young ones need loved the video!🙏
This is the best documentary of a hunter chasing his dreams and the life of a buck dreams are made of. What a gift from GOD! Congrats Don!
Just sent a prayer God would bless you for another. Every person I prayed would get a deer has and their biggest one yet. So thankful and more prayers sent
I'll take that prayer 🦌✝️🦌
I would not mind a prayer myself friend. I'll send some your way as well. 🙏🦌 name is Matthew, God bless!
@@Alpha-move thank you Matthew. I'll look for that big one 😉 I'll be out with my bow this week.
-Drew
Prolly one of the best documentaries I’ve ever watched ... Congratulations on a world class buck . The story of “Mel” from your perspective just lets everyone see the integrity the passion the kind of person you are. Keep doing what you do and chase the Giants . Thanks again for the footage and the story of Mel and the other videos as well. Hope you and your family have a great thanksgiving and a merry Christmas...
amen to that
Absolutely the best story i have heard, i am so glad to have watched this video. Thanks to you, and thanks for being such a wonderful human being. I am 67 years old and soon to be 68 my dream is to get one of those monsters and my hopes are my grandson who is 5 years old can follow in my footsteps. Take care and god bless.
I keep passing deer, 3-year-olds, year after year, with the hope that someday I will get rewarded. Thanks for your inspiration
"It's all about the chase, not the kill"
Amen SIR
Then go hunt next season all season and don't kill anything. Some of these comments are so ridiculous. And people are sheep. They just like it.
No, it is not all about the chase. The chase makes the kill that much better, but that comment is nonsense.
@@petedogg369 exxxxxactlyyyy
@@petedogg369 If it's not high fenced, the buck stays because it is preferable to it. A person who buys land and pays his taxes on it should be able to post it. The deer may roam wherever, but people may not. The man created a habitat that attracted and held deer, even if he bought the seed stock of the herd from a high fence farm.
Land is always for sale or lease, get you some.
Rick Stark and pete dogg, your ignorance and jealousy are showing.
@@Rrailroad3 alright bro, whatever you say. Typical UA-cam comment stupidity. Anyone who feels any type of way contrary to the masses is jealous, ignorant, etc.
No need to actually found those assertions in any sort of objective reasoning. Just claim that we're ignorant and jealous, because we disagree 🤷♂️
This almost had me in tears 23:00 on telling us to chase are dreams and sharing everything with his family great way to get it done!!
We should all be so lucky to get to a point where "the chase means more than the kill". Such an amazing and inspirational story, thank you from every bowhunter that may never see this.
What a great guy and ethical hunter. All sportsman should take a word out of this mans book.
OMG 18:;45 dream hunt and absolute perfect video and priceless look on Mel's face. Thank God and Don.
All I can say is WOW, what a great guy! No fist pumping or macho antics, and more importantly giving credit to God,. Thank you for an awesome video and God bless you and your family.
Don, I've been a fan from day one! Never commented on a post or a video. First congratulations on a beautiful deer and the story that came with it. I woke up extra early to watch this. This just wasn't another video it was a side of Don not to many get too see. Thank you!
You inspire me every year to not only a better hunter but a better man though God. You keep it real and unlike some of these celebritie hunters you don't care what people think. This industry needs more Don Higgins. Thank you Don and Terry and everyone that has a part in what we get to enjoy.
amen to that if thoes big deer hunters would be more like this not just for tv but in life without being on tv id watch them again. this was truey inspirational video
The image of you sitting in the back of the truck looking at Mel was really powerful. Almost as if you were saying goodbye to a good friend.
"God's reality is bigger than your dream." An incredible hunt with a perspective and selflessness that is rare....and inspirational! Congratulations on your success, Don, and thank you for sharing this with us!
This was the first year in 10 years straight that I did not harvest a whitetail (doe or buck) and I have been pretty bummed about it and lamenting my close calls and misses for a couple weeks now....after watching this I am reminded that it is about "the chase" and not about the kill, and that is why we hunt. That brings me peace and closure on this hunting season and I want to thank you for that as a reminder Don. Congrats on Mel...I will always remember to dream big and be thankful for every opportunity I have ever had to harvest a whitetail by the grace of God. Subscribing now for more wholesome future content.
Stay strong brother you'll get ya a biggin im praying for you 🙏
hey man ive been there and im there this year 1 remeber you cant eat antlers as much as we all love to kill a big buck when it comes to putting meat in the freezer gotta do what you gotta do. and 2 youll get your biggen were all in it for the chace and that one day when it all comes together youll appreat it so much because youve seen and passed up deer. just remember if you dont feel comfterable or dont think that deer needs to be harvested dont shoot it and i commend any hunter that is able to do that. im 18 ive shot my fair share of small deer now i just enjoy learning from them and waiting for the moment i am able to get my big buck. good luck this season and to everyone else reading this!!
Don sure drives home what’s important in this life, awesome stuff!
Don, thanks for sharing that hint of a lifetime & being so candid throughout. Glad to know there are still good God fearing folks around!
Sir,you are doing exactly what i dearly wish that i could do, im 37 and my passion and obsession for whitetail deer hunting is beyond explanation,ive hunted alot of small private properties on people's good graces throughout my life,spent alot of hours in stand without seeing a single deer and feeling so down and out about it,but god gave me patience in the hunting department and the deer always come through after days with no deer in sight,ive been blessed with some nice bucks that i have mounted but largest is 135 inches,nothing like yours but big to me and they are beautiful animals,i look up to you,god bless.
*In the process of chasing a 220 inch deer*... “I just can’t turn down the opportunity to shoot a coyote.” 😂😂 I feel ya there Don
What an idiot. Who does that.
@@jacobschweitzer2954 a true outdoorsman, coyotes are terrible for deer beards, turkeys, quail, pheasants, you name it! Furthest thing from an idiot bud... how many 200” deer you killed?
Herds**
@@jacobc.1848 I’m very aware what yotes do to the game we hunt. My point is simply, if I’m hunting a 200” buck, I’m letting a Yote walk to get to him.
@@jacobschweitzer2954 how’s he an idiot? He killed the deer. He hunts the correct way and for the correct reasons. To see Gods Creation. Killing big deer is great, but that’s not the reason to hunt.
What a great example for men and other hunters!!
I pray GOD continues to bless you!
i am a bowhunter from maui hawaii, i started bowhunting later in my life, your story is really what its about,the experience of being in the woods and enjoying this god given resource, aloha from maui
This video was a Blessing. Good encouragement at the perfect time. I recently turned 60 this past Summer and then lost my Mother on October 30th. My Mother always encouraged my hunting drive, all the while knowing I’ve had very minimal success hunting public land. I broke the bank this year and scheduled a bull elk hunt in Colorado for mid-Nov. I was uncertain if I’d be going, due to my Mother’s condition, but I put it out of my mind and focused on her. As I said, she passed away on October 30th and on the 1st day of my hunt, I hunted my tail off and was able to fill my bull tag with a nice enough 5x5. The entire day, I had that feeling you get when you know God’s with you extra close by that day. It was the toughest physical one day hunt I have ever had, to follow up the 363 yard shot, find it and get back to camp. But it was all worth it. I’ve been hunting elk 30 years, bought at least 20 tags, some rifle and mostly archery on public land and never filled one. I’ve gutted and carried many for my buddies. Don’t give up your dream and dream big and trust God, not yourself, like he says.
You sir , are the pinnacle of what we strive to be. Congratulations and God bless.
Wow! What a story. Wonderful job retelling the story of Mel and the journey it took to get to where you are today. Don, you are a great role model for all!
69 years old and only deer hunted 3 or 4 times in my life. But through the magic of the internet I "hunt" vicariously through others. I've seen the beauty of those, young and old, male and female, that have shared that special time of their dream come true. And I've shed tears with them but no more so than watching you. Thank you for sharing your story and your heart. {yes, I'm shedding tears because I'm connected to people of heart}. Made my heart smile.
That's got to be "THE BEST" if not, one of the best hunting videos I've seen . Simply and just beautifully narrated. Sir me thanks you most kindly. Stay forever blessed.
Wow.! Mr.Don Words in no way shape or form can express how I feel after watching this! What a fantastic job Steve the way you capture things is completely phenomenal and you have touched more deer hunters with this video than you will ever know!
God Bless you Both
I appreciate you sharing the story and even more so sharing your faith. I was one that had a couple more critical opinions of your company a couple years ago but as I've listened to your podcast and got a better idea of who you are as a person I gladly eat crow and apologize for jumping to conclusions like so many of us do in the world of social media. You clearly are a man of integrity and have made an eternal impact on many lives. Keep being bold in your faith and sharing the good news we have in Christ Jesus. Take care brother.
This comment means more than you know. Thank you. ~ Terry
Thank you for watching the video and giving me a second chance just as Christ did.
what a stud of a whitetail that is a dream whitetail. Your story is awesome.And love the quote.
“As hunters, we should be judged more by what we choose not to shoot than by what we do shoot.” Love this quote .
All I ever wanted in a hunting video. Love the story of the deer more then anything. Please keep these videos coming. They are absolutely the best. Congrats Don!!!
Fantastic documentary, more than a few life lessons included. Thanks for the upload
Thank you for sharing your story of that fantastic buck Mel. I understand that bitter sweet part of when after the shot the game is over. Its the thrill of the hunt, not the kill and the time outdoors that i love. I hunt on some property up here in Michigan's Thumb that i finally purchased at 66 years old. I have been hunting that land for over 40 some years. Lots of hunting pressure around me. Still hope to someday have a shot at something big. Time will tell. Thanks again for your awesome story of Mel.🦌
This man is the best kind of hunter.
Congratulations Don! I'm headed out to a property I just purchased earlier in the month for the 1st time. It has tremendous potential. I hope to build a legacy there much as you have on your ground.
Congratulations Don, this is one of the best videos telling the story of a buck that I’ve ever seen
This is a great video ! It reminds me of one buck we saw almost every year on our dairy farm in upper central Wisconsin, Pops called him “ pistachio “ I asked why he called him that a pops answered because he drives me nuts every time I see um . He was what we called a swamp buck , and didn’t look like any white tail around , his rack grew more from the back of his head coming up over the front and was taller than wider, and his coloration was very dark almost black and was bigger than a regular deer , he was always out on our back 40 and we could see um from the house but there was no way you could ever get close , after about 7-8 years we didn’t se um anymore , he was the mystery buck that we always talked about , A legend ,
Awesome story brought tears to my eyes...Praise God .
Congrats Don! Couldn’t happen to a better guy and a better team.
Extremely inspirational- God has got it! The best is yet to come!
You sir are a Good bow hunter, but you are a Great Human Being !
Thank you, Butch from Ashland, Ohio
Great story. I understand what you mean about finding the joy of checking trail cameras and watching the deer come by your stand.
Ethical and disciplined. Very impressed. I'm a very beginner hunter at the age of 52. Haven't had any success in my few years hunting.
What a great role model and witness you have become. If I could be half as much and the deer part thats just bonus.
Outstanding video of a giant buck and an ethical hunter. Love the respect shown for such a magnificent animal, family and most of all to the God that created it all. Well done.
Amen Halleluiah.
Congrats Brother! Honored to be a part of your blessings! May you continue to be blessed in everything you touch!
Just watched it again. Gave me the chills, again.
Wow and Amen! Congratulations! We are all blessed to have been part of this through this amazing footage and narration. Truly speaks of God's amazing wonders and how HIS blessing for us is always MORE than what ours may be. HE always give you more than enough.
All I can say is wow. True inspiration
Literally shed a tear when he looked to the heavens and closed his eyes, as if to tell you he's ready and at peace. 😭
He was checking to see if the doe was ready to breed. Had nothing to do with being at peace. Animals are not human and therefore can't reason like that. Get a grip and blow your nose!!
@@mervjb809 your correct but damn could be a lil nicer with it to start lmao
First time watching one of your hunts, just happened to be suggested to me. Now I'm definitely a subscriber! Much respect to you sir, and one heck of a story. You said it yourself many times as well as your friends very, very few people would have passed up such a giant. But your integrity and management purposes won out and impressed me. I myself have taken and been with many young hunters trying to get their first big buck and the satisfaction of doing that is great. To be able to share it with others is fun. Thank you for this hunt and your convictions in both hunting and family and sharing your morals mixed in of your character. You're just like one of those giant, wise old bucks. I look forward to many more of your hunts.
Inspired stories is what I love about your success. The humbleness, thankfulness to God, and your patience makes you one of a kind. Congrats on Mel and the start of a new chapter.
Great story! That was a true majestic giant. The footage at 3yrs old while he's staring at the camera put me in a trance! Keep it up, love all the content you're putting out there.
This is one of the most powerful hunting documentaries I’ve watched not only entertaining but very knowledgeable
👆👆Thanks for the feedback Expect more videos soon.
SEND A DIRECT MASSAGE I HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU 🎁. .
Congratulations on another amazing buck.
This time of year I watch a ton of videos on the passion we all have around deer hunting. This is by far the best video I have seen, hands down. Exciting, thought provoking and character all in one video and amazing editing. Thank you!
Congrats Don!!! You the man!! Humble and kind
Well done as always Don. From reading your articles many years ago, to listening to the podcast. You always came across as a down to earth, hardworking, good man. This video really shows that.
This man is one of a kind !! I’ve watched this 4 times in a row and loved it every time .
What a great and inspirational story. I especially liked the quote and how Don applied that to his life. Thanks for sharing that special deer with your grandkids and waiting for Steve to get there to share in the "find" since he had also seen the deer for years.
Complete respect for this guy and congrats on the deer
Thank you sir for the great video and sharing all of your feelings and information
I appreciate the respect you have for these animals. Thank you so much!
Clean, Honest and Awesome ! Thanks for sharing the story congrats again!
Man when he was walking at the tree😳🤩
Thank you for sharing this, all the informative videos and your testimony.
Thank you so much for this video...I have a 14 pointer for 2 years on my land and if I get him will cry...nobody understands how much a hunter loves mature deer and the respect.
Like I have always said, deer hunting is great getting a buck is iceing on the cake. A classy guy, to wait and share the deer with friends and family, very cool.
Loved your story and the family aspect. Glad you recovered from Covid. I had it in the summer and am still chasing my dream yet.
What a great story. Thanks for sharing part of your life with us Don. Congratulations
Congratulations!! Enjoyed the story of Mel.
This is why heaven is going to be heaven...it will be filled with brothers like Mr.Higgins. I am very blessed after watching this.
Best documentary video I’ve ever watched. If that doesn’t inspire us as hunters then Idk what will.
Congrats Don and to all involved in this production. Wonderfully done.
Thank you for sharing a part of you.
Congratulations Don! Thanks for being an inspiration to us Hunters!
Congrats Don on another great buck! Wow!
Absolutely amazing production. I’ve never seen a deer hunting story told better. Thank you.
Wow I came to watch a big buck get smoked and left almost in tears 😳 fantastic story with a great ending. You have captured the true essence of the hunt and everyone who hunts should see this video. It's almost sad once you do finally stick him. Knowing that he is expired and there is no more chase. Great buck and even better story!
👆👆Thanks for the feedback Expect more videos soon.
SEND A DIRECT MASSAGE I HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU 🎁. .
What an amazing deer, and amazing story. Thank you for sharing this!
This is one of the best hunting videos I have ever watched . Thank you for being willing to share your life with us Don . Your character , work ethic , discipline and transparency is refreshing and second to none . Looking forward to meeting you some day .
Many different lessons to be learned in this video! This is what you call a “Real hunting” show/video! Congrats, you definitely deserved that deer and whatever else you decide to harvest!
Congratulations on that incredible buck. I have read many of your magazine articles but just found your Podcast and have been listening intently to catch up on all the episodes. Your blue collar upbringing and the fact that you have improved your family farm into a big buck paradise is amazing. Keep up the good work and thank you for the great content. You are definitely "Real World"!
Congrats Don ! You truely are the blessed.
That’s the best whitetail story I’ve ever watched and heard
Congratulations sir absolutely beautiful
Thank you for sharing
God bless you ❤️🙏
Congrats Don!! You’re a real inspiration to myself and many others!
I absolutely love the story of Mel. It’s inspiring me in my growing as a hunter. Thank you
Great message Don. I hope you have regained your health. Thanks for sharing and being a role model for someone such as myself raising young hunters. God Bless from MT.
Absolutely the best hunting video I’ve ever watched! The passion can be felt by the viewer for sure and i’ve never stepped foot there or saw that deer yet the emotions it triggers is awesome! Congratulations sir!
What a amazing story, humble humble man!
Hats off on a great deer and thank you for sharing your knowledge. Discipline is the keyword that I have taken from this post. Thanks again!!!
What an amazing experience and story. Thank you for sharing it with me.