Aggressive Antler Rattling Results in a Big Indiana Buck

• Hunter: Jeremy Neff
• Buck: 180 1/8 inches (gross)
• Date of Harvest: November 3, 2024
• State of Harvest: Indiana
• Weapon of Harvest: PSE Fang 350 crossbow

Most modern deer hunters have some history with the deer they harvest. With all of the trail cameras, it’s difficult not to. But Indiana hunter Jeremy Neff had no history with this monster buck.

He’s deer hunted his entire life, though. He knows the general area quite well. So, on November 3, 2024, he was excited for the sit. The afternoon outing brought cloudy skies, a humid atmosphere, and temps in the mid-70s.

The property has rolling hills, crop fields, and a grown-up thicket and fallow field. The view from the stand includes tall grass and a patch of heavy early successional cover.

On the way to the treestand, he jumped a deer but remained positive. With a south wind, he hoped the hunt would pan out well. Once settled, he decided to make something happen.

“I picked up my rattler and hit them together slightly, but with no results,” Neff said. “I waited about 15-20 minutes, and I picked up the rattler again. This time, I made it sound like two deer were trying to kill each other. I looked up, and all I saw was a big, beautiful deer coming right toward me.”

The deer charged right into the setup. Within seconds, Neff took the broadside, 15-yard shot opportunity. It struck true. Deer down.

Later, a good friend of his showed up to help recover the deer.

“Everyone came and gathered at my house in the pole barn, and that ol’ buck was the talk of the town,” Neff said. “I am so blessed by my Lord and Savior Jesus. I have hunted my whole life for this buck, and my dream finally came true. As a child, I was fascinated with hunting. I always wondered if this would happen, and it did.”

He credits the hunt to using the wind to his advantage and very aggressive rattling. Plus, in hopes of leaving this area scent-free, he never deployed trail cameras in this spot.

“A hunt is good for the soul,” Neff said. “I respect and love the great outdoors. I can’t wait to make more memories with my two boys in the deer woods.”

The buck aged 4 ½ to 5 ½ years old. It scored 180 1/8 inches (gross).

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