Illinois Hunter Tags a 30-Pointer…Doe!

by
posted on December 19, 2011
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
lessons_ah2015_fs.jpg (10)

Say you are out for a morning on the deer stand. You’re looking for a decent buck, but your scouting revealed that the best you can hope for is an 8-pointer. Suddenly you catch a glimpse of antler moving through the brush. You start breathing heavier and deeper as the deer steps into a partial clearing because, as you start evaluating the head, you realize there’s more antler and points than you have ever seen. They're everywhere!

That’s pretty much the story Richard Lomas had concerning his Mt. Erie, Ill., deer hunt on December 2. Lomas knocked down the deer and went to retrieve his once-in-a-lifetime prize when he got his second surprise of the morning—his 30-point buck was actually a 30-point doe!

Lomas has since become something of a local celebrity with his doe. Bass Pro Shops has reputedly offered him $50,000 for the head, and there are others seeking access to this rare deer. He is still trying to determine what he’ll do with it.

The doe has been aged at 4 1/2 years, and its rarity has been estimated at 1 in 4,500. Talk about hormone issues!

Latest

LEDEW H2026 08 Membershunt George Perryman Five Generations Strong
LEDEW H2026 08 Membershunt George Perryman Five Generations Strong

The Fox Model B That Keeps on Hunting

Do you have a favorite old firearm that just won't quit? Then this story, from George Perryman of Lexington, N.C., is for you.

Hardware Review: Marlin Trapper Model 1894 10mm Auto

Whenever a gunmaker introduces a new handgun or a carbine chambered in a pistol round, one of the social media comments to immediately follow will be: “Are you going to make it in 10mm?” Marlin Firearms has answered this question with a resounding "Yes!"

Top 5 Budget Hunting Riflescopes

There are few joys as great as a shooting with a high-end, premium optic, with its crystal-clear image from premium lenses. There are also the realities of a modest hunting budget, and staying within your financial means makes for a happier home. Curious about the latter? Check out this comprehensive list.

Range Review: DIY Howa Superlite 6.5 Creedmoor

Working with Brownells and Stocky's you can assemble this lightweight bolt gun just the way you want it!

Federal is the Official Ammunition of the Minnesota Wild

Federal Ammunition has announced it will be the official ammunition of the Minnesota Wild for the 2026-27 season. This agreement with the hometown NHL franchise is historic as it is the first partnership with a major league professional sports team in Federal's 104-year history.

#SundayGunday: CVA Cascade Rimfire

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Cascade Rimfire, from CVA, a lightweight rimfire absolutely perfect for tackling squirrel season. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the Cascade Rimfire sports an 18-inch barrel that hits the perfect sweet spot between easy accuracy and maneuverability. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.