Riverwolf, I can relate. Numbers in my area of SE Oklahoma have been on decline for the last fifteen years. Mostly due to poaching but the 2011 drought also had a devastating effect on the herd. My area is largely wilderness and and almost no land lease money influx, thus almost no involvement from the game department.
I am forced to travel to hunt as opportunities on my own property are extremely limited.
I did have some great close (ground hunting) experiences on some good bucks this year at a WMA. Only one shot opportunity though and hit an obstruction which resulted in a tag soup year for me.
Other areas in Oklahoma are not experiencing the same problem and I’m thankful for that. Also very thankful for the opportunity to hunt and never take that for granted.
