By: Jessica O’Connor
10 year old Brayden Finley started the 2022 deer season off with a literal “bang” last week. In fact, Brayden killed his very first buck-but it wasn’t just any old scrub.
Brayden’s first buck just so happened to be a 190 lb. 10-point with a 17.5 inch inside spread, in velvet to boot.
Brayden recounted that he and his stepfather had patterned the deer coming out nearly every afternoon prior to the season opening. Last Monday, they laid eyes on the deer while in the stand-but he had waited until right at dark to show up.
Thursday, the pair once again headed out. “We waited and waited,” Brayden recalled. That particular evening, another buck stepped out first, followed by the Harleyville bruiser. Set up and ready, Brayden patiently waited for the larger buck to turn broadside so he could take the shot with his 7mm.08.
“He ran straight toward the stand when I shot,” Brayden exclaimed. “We found him about 50- 60 yards in the woods.”
When asked how he felt about harvesting a deer like that, especially for a first buck, Brayden stated, “It felt kinda good and also…really nervous.”
Don’t worry, buddy-most of us still fully echo that sentiment.
Brayden also had some advice for any young ladies or young men pursuing their first (or biggest) deer this season.
“Be patient, and never give up,” he promptly told me.
Wise words, and sound advice. Congratulations, Brayden, and good luck in the remainder of the season!
Back in Walterboro, Brayden’s aunt Renee Johnson killed a nice buck of her own during opening week. Renee’s 155 lb. 9-point in velvet will make a beautiful addition to the family’s wall.
Renee offered some advice for the ladies.
“Get out in the woods. Have patience. Take your time. Breathe. Aim, and pull the trigger. As long as it’s a trophy in your eyes, that’s all that matters.”
Congratulations to you too, Renee.
Don’t forget folks-I want to see your nice deer taken around Colleton County and surrounding areas this season. Shoot me an email with a nice photo and some information about your hunt to jessica@lowcountry.com and you might find yourself on the outdoors page of The Press and Standard!
