Well said SLM. Getting wrapped up in inches is a terrible place to be. Nothing disappoints me more as a guide than a hunter being thrilled with a buck until we HONESTLY score him (as required by our management plan,) or vice versa.
The animal is what he is (hopefully a mature animal,) and the hunt is what it is (hopefully a great one filled with lifelong memories.) Paying more for a hunt or driving further doesn’t guarantee a bigger animal, though hunting prime areas does increase your chances at a once-in-a-lifetime animal. Don’t confuse that correlation.
You’ve done your research, paid for the hunt, and are preparing yourself in the meantime. Now, make the best of it and hope for a great, memorable hunt!
Good luck!
