# September Recap: Hunting Adventures and Insights > Catch up on hunting highlights and experiences from September. As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, September brought a whirlwind of hunting experiences and reflections. Cass shares insights from his adventures guiding at the ranch, emphasizing the importance of maturity in wildlife management and the thrill of the hunt. ## Archery Season Highlights Although Cass missed the first week of archery season due to work commitments, his passion for hunting never waned. At the ranch, the focus is on age—seeking to harvest the most mature animals possible. "We want to kill the most mature animal we can up at the ranch," he explains, underlining the ranch's commitment to wildlife management. While Cass was away, the team achieved remarkable success, with bulls averaging around seven to eight years old. Hunting strategies included calling in the mornings and sitting near waterholes in the evenings, leading to significant success during the first week. ## Muzzle Loader Success Cass recounts guiding a father-son duo during the muzzle loader season. "Our average deer that we kill at the ranch is about 192 inches," he notes, showcasing the caliber of wildlife present. Using high-quality optics, Cass relishes the art of glassing—"I could glass all day," he admits, revealing his passion for spotting game. The duo's efforts paid off with an impressive 192-inch mule deer. They faced challenges, including inclement weather, yet persevered to secure their trophy. ## Archery Bull Encounters Transitioning to archery for the following week, Cass describes some exhilarating encounters with bulls. "Absolutely insane. The encounters we had were unreal," he recalls. The thrill of spotting a bull and attempting to close the distance was a highlight, culminating in heart-pounding moments when a bull appeared just yards away, testing the hunter's skill and composure. Despite not harvesting a bull, the experiences were invaluable. "He had a really good opportunity... he just didn't pull the trigger and he learned from it," Cass reflects, emphasizing the learning that comes with every hunt. ## Looking Ahead With the first rifle season opening soon, Cass is eager for what lies ahead. "This first rifle is one of my favorite hunts of the year," he shares, looking forward to the camaraderie and excitement of the upcoming group of hunters. Stay tuned for more insights and stories in future episodes, including interviews with fellow guides and the ranch manager, who is a mule deer expert. September was a busy month filled with experiences, growth, and preparation for what’s next. --- Reflecting on the past month, it’s clear that each hunt is more than just the pursuit of game; it’s about connection, learning, and appreciation for nature’s beauty. If you're curious to hear more about these adventures, tune in to the full episode!
