17-Point Buck Down in The Wilderness

Kenny, 14, was elated when he heard from his parents that he would be going on a deer hunt. He completed his hunter safety course, then honed his skills by practicing target and trap shooting through the Monroe Chester Sportsman Club. His father also taught him valuable hunting regulations and skill sets, fostering a deep respect for wildlife and nature.

“The most important lesson my dad taught me is that I might not harvest a deer every time I go hunting,” said Kenny.

Kenny navigates life from a motorized wheelchair while managing several health conditions, yet he maintains an infectious, upbeat attitude. He is determined not to let any obstacle, including physical limitations, prevent him from achieving his dreams and his goal of getting his first deer.

Kenny and his parents reside in a quiet, rural neighborhood in a small town in New York. The family embarked on an 18-hour drive across state lines to Wilderness Whitetails in Rosholt, Wisconsin.

Upon arrival, they toured the facility before heading to the gun range to prepare for the hunt. Kenny’s guide, Joe Olszewski, said, “We had Kenny practice aiming and shooting using both shooting sticks and a bench rest.” Following the session, his guide felt confident in Kenny’s ability to make a clean 100-yard shot, believing they had a good chance of success if a buck presented a clear opportunity.

Keith dropped his son, Kenny, and Joe off at a stand on the property. Joe said, “As we settled in, it was fairly slow for the first hour or two. We saw a few turkeys and a couple of young bucks starting to follow some does since we were getting close to the rut.”

Before long, a dominant buck emerged from a dense wooded area, causing the other deer to retreat back into the trees. Kenny exclaimed, “I was so excited when I saw the deer. I was thinking Oh my gosh, this could be it!” Filled with enthusiasm, he turned to Joe and asked, “Is this deer old enough to shoot?” as they glassed the massive buck from their stand. His anxiety intensified as he eagerly anticipated taking a shot, especially since he had never gotten a deer or seen a buck this size before.

Joe quietly opened the window and positioned the 7mm-08 youth rifle in front of Kenny. He said, “The deer stayed calm and never got spooked, which was perfect since we had a good wind for the situation.” As soon as the buck entered shooting range at about 80 yards, Kenny looked down the scope. Joe asked, “Are you lined up right behind the shoulder?” Kenny responded, “Yes.” Joe instructed, “Squeeze the trigger.” Kenny successfully anchored the 17-point buck, which scored 145 1/8 inches, right where it stood.

Filled with excitement, Joe yelled, “You dropped him right in his tracks!” Kenny exclaimed, “Oh my gosh!” Joe replied, “Nice job!” A giant smile spread across Kenny’s face as he turned to his guide and said, “Thank you!” After Joe praised him again for his great performance, Kenny had only one thought: “Can I call my dad and tell him?”
Joe explained, “I have been guiding hunts at Wilderness Whitetail for twenty-one years. I am always excited about these types of hunts, as they are memorable for everyone involved. I love seeing the excitement in these special hunters when the hunts come together.”

“The best part of the hunt was being alone with Joe in the stand and helping to feed my family.” Kenny’s face lit up as he spoke. “I was really excited to get my deer and see how many points it had.” Indeed, there will be plenty of delicious, fresh venison on Kenny’s family table this holiday season!

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Flees Family, Wilderness Whitetails, Joe Olszewski, and the donors for providing Kenny with an exceptional trophy hunt. Our heartfelt congratulations to him on the successful harvest of a 17-point buck. This event has fostered meaningful memories with his mentor, parents, and new friends. God bless!