It was one of those rainy, wet evenings – cold air, a slight breeze, and that golden hush before dark. Mary Clayton had been watching this buck on camera for weeks, studying his patterns and waiting for the perfect chance. As the last bit of light faded, he finally stepped out at about 150 yards, cautious but curious.
With steady hands and a heart racing, she shouldered her .308 Winchester and took a deep breath. One clean shot later, the woods fell silent – and her patience paid off. The 8-point dropped right where he stood.
It wasn’t just about the deer — it was the culmination of dedication, time in the woods, and that unforgettable moment when preparation meets opportunity!
Hunter’s name: Mary Clayton Haddock
Salters South Carolina
Williamsburg, SC
10/27/2025
8-point buck
