What is best practice for retrieving a velvet buck after a shot?

Tracking and Recovery

When tracking a velvet buck in the South Carolina Lowcountry, consider the terrain and vegetation. The Lowcountry’s mix of marshes, swamps, and wooded areas requires a hunter to be aware of his surroundings and the buck’s potential escape routes. Use the wind direction and scent to locate the buck, as he may try to escape into the marsh or a nearby thicket. Move quietly, as the buck’s sensitive nose can pick up even the slightest noise. If you’ve shot the buck, look for blood trails and signs of disturbance in the vegetation.

Handling and Transportation

Once you’ve located the buck, handle the animal with care to minimize damage to the hide and prevent further injury. Use a long-handled or rope hoist to lift the buck onto a cart or sled, taking care not to puncture the hide with sharp objects. If you’re unable to retrieve the buck immediately, make a makeshift drag using a sturdy branch or log, taking care not to cause further damage. Be prepared to transport the buck in a manner that allows you to keep it upright, with the head facing forward. This will help prevent further damage to the hide and facilitate proper field dressing.

Field Dressing and Preparation

When field dressing the buck, work efficiently and carefully to avoid puncturing the hide. Use a sharp, clean knife to make a shallow incision from the anus to the base of the ribcage, taking care not to puncture the diaphragm. Remove the organs and entrails, taking care to preserve the hide and the velvet antlers. Use a tarp or plastic bag to keep the area clean and minimize contamination. Once the buck is field dressed, you can transport it back to camp or a processing facility, taking care to keep the hide and antlers secure.