Unforgettable Adventures: My First Mule Deer Hunt with the Obsession Ultra Mag 360
By Richard Hayman
As the sun began to rise over the breathtaking landscapes of Washington State, I couldn’t help but feel both excitement and nervousness coursing through me. This was my first hunting trip out west, and it was a dream come true. I flew in from Pennsylvania on August 30, 2025, ready to embark on a mule deer hunt like no other, thanks to the incredible support of the Martin Archery family.
The anticipation built as I landed in Pasco, Washington, where I was graciously hosted by the team at Martin Archery. With the buck season set to kick off on September 1, I knew that I was about to experience something special. Before my trip, the Martin and Obsession Archery team equipped me with the remarkable Ultra Mag 360—a 33-inch axle-to-axle bow that promised to enhance my hunting experience beyond my wildest expectations.
Obsession Archery’s 2025 bow line is more than just impressive; it’s a game-changer. The Ultra Mag 360 features advanced technology designed for unparalleled accuracy and a smooth shooting experience. With its lightweight design and exceptional balance, this bow allows for stability and precision even in the most challenging conditions. The bow’s innovative cam system provides faster arrow speeds while maintaining a forgiving shooting platform, making it the perfect companion for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.
As the hunt began, we found ourselves navigating a picturesque farm adorned with sprawling alfalfa and corn fields. However, the scorching temperatures—soaring into the upper 90s—added an unexpected layer of difficulty to our mission. Harvesting a mule deer during early season is never easy, and this hunt was no exception.
Our target buck, aptly named “Split Ear,” was often seen alongside another impressive mule deer known as “High Flyer.” For three grueling days, I put my skills to the test, attempting to outsmart these magnificent creatures. Hunting on an active farm presented its own set of challenges, as ongoing agricultural activities disrupted the deer’s natural patterns. But with the invaluable support of Josh Lewis, the Vice President of Martin Archery and Obsession Bows, and his dedicated friend Curtis Johnson, we devised a plan.
Curtis poured his heart and soul into managing the farm, ensuring that the conditions were optimal for our hunt. His expertise and commitment were instrumental in providing me the opportunity to pursue a trophy mule deer. The challenge was real: it took four separate sits, each lasting 4-5 hours, to finally get a shot at my target.
On the third day, just as the sun began to dip below the horizon, the moment I had been waiting for arrived. At 7:43 PM, I spotted Split Ear emerging from the edge of the cornfield into the lush alfalfa. My heart raced as I settled into position. With the Ultra Mag 360 in hand, I steadied my breath, focused on my target, and released the arrow at a distance of 26 yards. The shot was accurate, and Split Ear collapsed just ten yards from where he fell.
In that moment, I knew I had found my new favorite weapon for hunting. Having been a diehard fan of Mathews Archery for years, I never imagined that I would enjoy shooting a bow as much as the Ultra Mag 360. Its performance exceeded all my expectations, proving that sometimes change can lead to extraordinary growth.
This incredible trip would not have been possible without being a part of the Hart Custom Rifles pro staff, led by the passionate Bob Hart himself. His unwavering support and dedication to the hunting community have opened doors to experiences I will cherish forever.
Reflecting on this unforgettable journey, I am filled with gratitude for the connections made and the memories created. The thrill of the hunt, the beauty of the landscape, and the camaraderie shared with fellow hunters made this experience truly special. As I look ahead to future adventures, I know that the Ultra Mag 360 will be by my side, ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.