Late Season Muzzleloader Hunting in Ohio: The Tale of "Mohawk"
Hunting with a muzzleloader always brings its unique set of challenges. Unlike modern rifles, the old-school technology makes you rely on patience, precision, and a little bit of luck. Late-season hunting in Ohio adds another layer of difficulty—unpredictable weather, fewer daylight hours, and often, deer that have grown wary after months of being pursued. But that’s what makes it all the more rewarding when you finally tag that buck.
This season, my pursuit of a buck, which we called "Mohawk," pushed me to the brink of frustration, only to be saved by an unexpected twist of fate.
The Encounter
It was one of those brisk, late-season mornings where the cold cut through my gear. Ohio winters have a way of reminding you that success in the woods is hard-earned. I had been sitting in the banks blind for hours, luckily with the Buddy heater in tow…More on that later.
As the day wore on, I spotted a giant 8-point coming from the north into the food plot. I saw this buck multiple times in bow season and was for sure on the “Hitlist”. I raised my muzzleloader and lined up the shot. Just as I squeezed the trigger, disaster struck—a misfire. That’s when Jason Brown and I erupted in laughter which was worth the misfire itself.
As I examined the situation, I realized the powder was likely damp. Wet powder would have made the shot go awry, and likely why the bullet looked like someone threw it out he barrel instead of shooting it. It was then I realized that I had the gun leaning against the heater all morning after spending a cold night in the truck and the precipitation had likely leaked down the hot barrel and onto the powder. This misfire, it turns out, was a blessing in disguise.
Patience Pays Off
It’s hard to stay calm when you’re face-to-face with a giant buck, but I took a deep breath and reset. I knew from experience that the late season is a waiting game. Mature bucks are smart, and I had to be smarter.
After what felt like an eternity, JB whispered “Behind Us!” Mohawk which was a 6-year-old we lost of track of the past 2 years had circled back behind us, presenting an opportunity. This time, I was ready. The gun fired cleanly, It was a surreal moment of triumph—a combination of patience, persistence, and learning from a near failure.
Lessons from the Field
Muzzleloader hunting, especially in the late season, isn’t just about skill; it’s about adapting to the unexpected. From misfires to the harsh winter conditions, each challenge tests your resolve. This hunt with Mohawk reminded me that sometimes setbacks, like a misfire, can turn into hidden blessings.
If you’re gearing up for late-season muzzleloader hunting in Ohio, remember to prepare your equipment carefully—keep your powder dry! But most importantly, embrace the process. Whether you’re facing off against the deer of a lifetime or dealing with the frustration of a misfire, each moment offers its own reward. With enough patience, you just might find yourself with your own “Mohawk” story to tell.
-Chris Keefer