Bartek buck sparks recent memories




 

 

The hunting season is rapidly approaching as next week marks the start of the seasons.

It is currently archery season for Atascosa and McMullen Counties, which means plenty of hunters are already in the field.

The general season for both counties begins Nov. 7 and the doe and spike season runs through Jan. 31, 2016. But as I prepare for another hunting season it’s not hard to think about the monster that walked through our doors at the Express last year.

Mr. Larry Bartek harvested an absolute dandy buck at his low-fence property in central Atascosa County.

The buck scored 211 1/8” Boone and Crockett and was unofficially the No. 7 ranked buck in North America last season.

Yes you read that right, North America.

Mr. Bartek’s buck was in the top 10 in the entire continent last year and it came out of Atascosa County.

I was fortunate enough to meet Mr. Bartek and after our interviews I am lucky to learn about an amazing story.

He doesn’t feed protein on his property contrary to numerous hunters around the country.

For me, the most important factor regarding Bartek’s buck is it was harvested from a low-fence ranch.

I love hunting and fishing as much as the next guy, but as a kid in the field our family ranch was always low fenced.

I have nothing against high-fenced hunting properties, but it is easier for a hunter to pattern an animal that doesn’t have a way out.

I remember the day Mr. Bartek walked through our doors ready to enter our contest. After seeing the buck for the first time, I automatically knew our contest wasn’t going to be his highest goal for the season.

I have never seen a bigger rack in my life before seeing Mr. Bartek’s buck.

From the dagger brow tines to the crazy curved drop tine, to the nearly foot long G-3 left tine the rack was majestic.

If I remember correctly, the second best buck entered in our contest last year would have easily won if Mr. Bartek didn’t enter.

A year removed from that moment and I can’t wait to see what pulls up to our steps outside.

I will have my camera in hand and ready to hear all about the hunting story.

You will find an entry form for our contest in the sports section for each week in the hunting season.

For more information, please email me at cfiloteo@pleasantonexpress.com.


Mr. Larry Bartek harvested his buck in central Atascosa County last year and scored a 211 1/8” B&C.

Mr. Larry Bartek harvested his buck in central Atascosa County last year and scored a 211 1/8” B&C.

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