November 21 - Justin Lurk

Hunter: Justin Lurk
Animal: 140 2/8" Whitetail
Location: Illinois
Weapon: Thompson Center Omega

When I found out I was able to hunt with Hadley Creek Outfitters at the beginning of this year I was really, really excited because of all the success the Drury Team has had at Hadley. I was filled with anticipation waiting for November 21 to flip through on calendar. Being that I had never hunted with an outfitter before, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had a few expectations going in, but they were blown out of water when we arrived. Hadley Creek has a first class facility, great guides, amazing food, and the experience is top notch.

The morning of November 21 Jared and I woke a lot earlier than what we are used to. We were in the woods very early and planned for an all day sit as mature deer had been seen moving at mid day. Our guide, Dave Plocher, was going to come back to check on us early afternoon. As soon as daylight broke, we saw deer all around us. We saw 6 different bucks before the movement stopped around 9:30. I almost had to bungee Jared to the tree. It was bitter cold and he forgot his insulated boots! I convinced him to stick it out, and we were glad we did. At 11:45 I caught a glimpse of a shooter buck. I snort wheezed at him and he started to come in. After closing the distance a bit he didn’t see what he was looking for and turned around. I grunted, stopping him at 90 yards. Jared gave me the green light and the Thompson Center Omega found its mark! The buck ran 15 yards and expired on film.

Needless to say, Jared was pleased with decision to stay all day. Dave came back a little after one and he was happy to hear our story. This is my biggest deer to date. What an exciting time! I can’t thank Stacey and Michelle Ward enough to invite us to experience a Hadley Creek hunt. I’m looking forward to a continued relationship with Hadley Creek Outfitters not only for the Drury Outdoors Team, but for Team Lurk-Lurk as well. Also, a huge thanks to Jared for taking his time to hunt with me and for continually helping me fulfill my dream of shooting a buck on film. I can’t thank him enough and appreciate his time and patience.