Tim,

Sorry to hear that. Definitely a gut shot. Best thing todo when you have gut contents is back out and leave them alone for SEVERAL hours. Often they'll lay down and die in their beds. Otherwise, if you can't find any sign and there's water in the vicinity, they'll go to water when hurt bad. Just a suggestion.

One of our guys badly gut shot one (out of one of my stands, no less) late Saturday evening. We backed out and resumed the search yesterday morning in the rain. I found one large spot of blood about 50 yards from where she was hit, then nothing.... stinks, but it happens. Practice a lot....best way I know to avoid it. Shooting mechanics should be second nature so you can focus on watching the deer for the best angle shot, watch deer body language, etc. Best thing is to shoot at a relaxed animal if possible.

CZ