Update: Went back behind the house to see if I could locate a dead deer. As I was going down the trail, I saw a deer in the trees. I crept up to it and got within 20 yards. All the time its head was behind the tree and all I could see was the body. I thought about taking a liver shot, but not without seeing what kind of animal it was. Imagine my surprise when it finally moved its head and there, in all its majesty, was the big buck. You don't forget a rack like that when you've been up close and personal with it. I was unable to get a shot at that point since it was turning and walking away. I went ahead, trying to anticipate it's direction. I crept into the woods, and selected a fallen tree to sit against. After 20 minutes, two does came up behind me. The temptation was too great and when the big one was 15 yards away, I drew back and shot. The string hit my arm and jacket and made a slapping sound. She ducked right under my arrow and they both bolted to a thicket where the giant 8 point stood up. They all meandered off. I tried to follow, but they caught sight and bolted. The creeks were all flooded (there are a series of three back behind the house). I think they went across one, but I wasn't about to follow. At least I know the deer is still alive, still running, and there to be hunted again.