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Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures

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I have been bow hunting south-central Illinois for over 20 years and I’ve been fortunate enough to harvest several big deer so I was a little hesitant when a friend invited me to hunt at butler Farms. I knew how good the hunting was in my “normal’ area and just couldn’t believe it could be that much better at Butler Farms to justify spending the money…how wrong I was!

We arrived on Sunday and planned only a short hunt because Thanksgiving was quickly approaching and we needed to get home with our families. Our hunt started with the temps around 70 degrees before a big storm blew in and cooled this off about 30 degrees which got the bucks moving again. I assumed that we had all but missed the rut and hoped to maybe see a buck or two cursing, looking for one last chance at a hot doe. I can honestly say that I was shocked at the number of bucks I saw over the 2 days I spent in a stand….not only bucks, but BIG bucks! I watched six different bucks search the ridges for opportunities while on stand and I did manage to kill a nice 8.

The accommodations are as fantastic as the hunting at Butler Farms and you will be hard-pressed to find two finer people than Don and Sandy Butler. I’m counting the days to my next trip!

Don Krietemeyer
Orlando, Florida
2010-2011 Season

Year after year I write wonderful recommendations about Butler Farms and this year is no different! They are continually striving to make your hunt a wonderful experience and it always is. The accommodations are truly outstanding, food is wonderful, and the hosts are wonderful to be around.

I have hunted all the properties- they are all wonderful with big bucks a plenty. I come every year and will be back again.

Matt Becker
Erie, PA
2010-2011 Season

Thanks so much for a great hunt and hospitality. Shot an awesome 9 point this year. Buck of a lifetime.

May God Bless and prosper Butler Farms.

Jeff Insley
Pine Bluff, AR
2010-2011 Season

The first time we came here we had a great time and this time is even better. Everything was excellent. Even with the poor weather we had we saw deer, big deer almost every day. All three of us shot or had shots at deer. I think the best testimonial I can give is to say I’ll be back.

Jerry Emhoff
Watervliet, MI
2010-2011 Season

I hunted Butler farms in 2004 and harvested a small buck and saw a couple of large bucks. This year, even though I only shot a doe, I saw more and larger deer than I have ever seen on any hunting trip in my life. I felt like I was on a hunting trip like the ones you see on T.V. The accommodations are first class and the Butlers are like family. I hope to make this a regular trip as often as I can.

Larry Janke
St. Joseph, MI
2010-2011 Season

When you come to Butlers, you’re coming to a family farm. You’re treated like part of their family.

If you want a place to pick your deer, then shoot, you are at the wrong place. You can pick your spot to hunt be that’s what you do. Hunt.

You will enjoy the Butler Farm as your own.

Dick Warren
Coloma, MI
2010-2011 Season

Once Again, Don Sandy and Mike have provided a truly wonderful hunting experience; from the roomy and very comfortable lodge, to the delicious “home-cooked” meals, to the generous hosts. Nothing could be better. Most impressive was the hunting. Even hunting late in the rut we still saw a lot of game movement with a buck to doe ratio greater than one! Conditions like these allowed time to stalk and harvest my first buck on foot with a bow. Thank you for a fantastic memory that I will never forget. God bless you, and I look forward to seeing you next year.

With sincere thanks and gratitude,

James E. Harvey
Cleveland, Ohio
2010-2011 Season

My son, good friend and I are avid archery hunters and after hunting some on the eastern part of the state we wanted to experience Pike County. While researching our options a good friend and brother in Christ suggested Butler Farms. He was close friends with the son of the owner, Mr. Don, and was confident that these would be good people. Well, he was right. We hunted the week of Thanksgiving and we caught the deer just coming off of their initial rut lockdown. We had mostly bad weather. Heavy winds and rain. But when we had a few breaks in the weather the deer would move all over the farm. It was awesome!! We saw a number of good bucks, dozens of does and we had an opportunity at a 150 plus class buck....He was HUGE and responded to a soft series of rattles. He was definitely looking.... We were not able to successfully harvest that Buck but we did take a smaller buck and my son took his third doe with a bow. The accommodations were excellent and Mr. Don and Mrs. Sandy were just awesome people. Right from the initial booking and throughout the entire hunt. We had an awesome experience and YES we are in the process of coordinating a return trip.

Thank You Mr. Don and Mrs. Sandy

Paul Minerd
Altamonte Springs, FL
2010-2011 Season

Just wanted to share a hunt, Buck, and I had this weekend during the Illinois season. He waited until the last five minutes of the hunt, but he pulled it out. He logged a lot of hours in a deer stand this weekend (read two very thick books) I am proud of the way he toughed it out. The weather was good for a couple of days; we saw several deer, but, no shooters. Then it warmed up and we were seeing no deer. He said the two things he learned on this trip were patience and Faith. This deer came out at last light and he made a great shot. As you can tell I am very proud. But the coolest thing he got to do, was, his teacher let him bring the horns to school, do a report today, and let the kids touch and hold the horns. We heard all sorts of hunting stories from his classmates. However; some of the kids got to look and hold them, which have never hunted before. Buck got to answer most of the questions from them. Maybe we can make some new hunters. I want to thank Mr. Big Daddy Don and Mrs. Sandy Butler www.butlerfarmsoutdoor.com . We also got to hear Ray Howell give his testimony at the Pittsfield Assembly of god Church on Sunday, pretty awesome. Hope every one has a blessed hunt this year.

God speed

Terry Horton
Buck Horton

White Hall AR
2010-2011 Season

Great people! Great Hunt! Great Christian Spirit! Great experience!

Roger Stewart
Pine Bluff, AR
2010-2011 Season

While the weather and moon worked against our hunting. Sandy and Don was the ultimate host, making for very enjoyable time. Accommodations are great, the food is a definite belt stretcher, and the hospitality is second to none.

All of this together created success regardless of deer activity.

May God Bless all your efforts in the future.

Ricky Davis
Sherrill, AR
2010-2011 Season

Great people make for a great time which makes for a very relaxing time

Thanks

Jamie Price
Pine Bluffs, AR
2010-2011 Season

Thanks for a great stay. Had a great time again. Thanks for joining me at dinner had a great time talking over dinner. Look forward to Lakeland and see you at the Expo. Keep the great work had a great time.

Thanks

Paul Moore
Zephyrihills, FL
2010-2011 Season

Since this was my third trip to Butler Farms, I figured I knew what to expect. Well, nobody expected the November temperatures to be in the mid 70's! That's just what my group was faced with during our "prime" November rut hunt at Butlers. Even though the day time highs were in the mid 70's, guys were seeing a few deer but nothing like it should have been. On the 3rd afternoon, driving to my stand the truck thermometer read 77 degrees!! By that time, I literally had gotten a sun burn on my face from all the hours in stand. On the fifth and last morning, we awoke at 4:15 a.m. and the outside temp was 61 degrees and there was a 5 mph wind out of the south. Less than ideal weather but we tried to stay positive. At about 6:40am, I decided I would "wake" the woods up with a pretty aggressive rattling sequence. I put the rattling horns down and about one minute later I saw a deer walking towards me from about 100 yards away. I put my binoculars up and at the same time the deer stopped and stared in my direction. The only thing I could see was the base of one of the horns and it looked big. My immediate concern was that the deer was coming from the north putting him directly down wind from me. The deer started to walk again and all I saw was rack! I tried a second look in my binoculars but in my excitement, I fogged up both eye-pieces! As the buck continued to march towards what had rattled, I could see it was definitely a shooter. I turned in my stand as to create a broadside shot as the buck passed. The buck was headed right to a real thick area that I had cleared one small shooting lane through. For four straight days I had envisioned a deer walking into that lane and here it was happening for real! As the deer stepped into that shooting lane I grunted to stop him. He stopped right in the lane and I made a perfect 25.5 yard shot and he went 80 yards and died. He turned out to be a 146 inch 6x5 11 pointer. I got Don and Sandie and once again we shared a great moment together.

Kevin Lane
Woodstock, NY
2009/2010 Season

Fellow Bowhunters,

I have just returned from my third trip to Butler Farms and wish that I had better things to say. You see, I grew up hunting in Pennsylvania and have come expect to certain experiences from a bow hunt - unfortunately I my expectations were unmet yet again this trip. For instance, I usually like to catch a nice nap while hunting at home, but at Butler Farms there were so many bucks running around all the time that I couldn't sleep at all. So I left sleep deprived. Furthermore, I usually like to relax while hunting. However, at Butler Farms there were so many bucks running around that I was constantly having to judge rack size, decide range, and worry about shot placement. So I left stressed. In addition, I shot another great buck this year at Butler Farms which caused all of my hunting buddies to become jealous. So now I have no friends. Finally, the catered meals at Butler Farms were so delicious that I ate seconds each day. So I left fat.

In summary, I have never been so pleased to leave a hunting trip sleepy, stressed, friendless, and fat. Don't hesitate to come to Butler Farms!

Best Regards,
Matthew "Casey" Becker
2009/2010 Season

This is short and sweet. I love this place and the people. I will continue to return every year with as many of my friends as I can. Seen more bucks than does, huge bodies and nice racks. Great hunting land.

Tony Smith
Shokan, NY
2009/2010 Season

It was great to make wonderful new friends. Mother Nature was a little rough this past week with the wind and rain, but I still saw six to eight deer everyday. Nice hunting experience.

God Bless and stay in touch
Glenn Boser
Kissimmee, Florida
2009/2010 Season

I felt like I was at home! Mr. & Mrs. Butler were wonderful. I really enjoyed meeting Mike. My experience was such that I hope to make this trip every year! I thank you guys so much for allowing me this experience! It was all that I expected. Thank you so much!

God Bless
Sean Hartfield
White Hall, AR
2009/2010 Season

This was my first trip out of state. Butler Farms is great. Miss Sandy and Don are great. If felt like I was staying with family. Mike Butler is ok. A great person, Mike is always ready to help. I really felt that I have known the Butler’s all my life. The hunting is also great the first day within an hour of getting on the stand I was seeing great deer and lots of them. Anyone who wants to hunt Pike County, Butler Farms is the place to be. You will feel right at home.

Lee Maynard
Star City, AR
2009/2010 Season

Great job on the place. I cannot thank you enough for the great time I had. Will return to try again soon as I can. I know where the king lives!

Thanks Again
Paul Moore
Zephyrhills, Florida
2009/2010 Season

I had the hunt of my life. I will never forget the night that I seen 5 bucks in less than 30 minutes. Never seen so many deer that were so big! I missed the biggest deer I have seen on the hoof. I then hit a very large buck. We tracked him until midnight with the help of Mike. It was truly a hunt of a lifetime. Thank you for the time of my life. I will take home stories to tell all my friends and family. You guys took care of us and treated us like family.

P.S Mike thanks for your help, I had a lot of fun laughing with you in the woods. I enjoyed your company!

Thanks
Warren Sander
Calico Rock, AR
2009/2010 Season

As always a great time. I had excellent hunting, good food, and fellowship. I really enjoyed the church services at church. Thanks for the invite.

God Bless
Jeff Insley
Pine Bluff, AR
2009/2010 Season

I have enjoyed my stay. I kept the camp warm and the boys fed, and tried to keep the kitchen straight. I did enjoy visiting with Mr. Don, Mrs. Sandie, and Mike. There is nothing like going somewhere and meeting great folks. Just like home. You have a great place. We will work on some of that good cooking next time. You have a great family.

Thanks for letting us meet them.

Happy Holidays

John Thompson
St. Francisville, LA
2009/2010 Season

We arrived at Butler Farms on a Sunday. The weather had been bad and had the rut slowed down. When we were scouting on the first day, we saw a lot of deer. Everyday on the stand we had deer in bow range. The lodge was a very comfortable place. They had everything we needed. I really enjoyed my time out here at Butler Farms. I want to give special thanks to Mr. Don and Mrs. Sandra, who provided me with a hunt of a lifetime and a memorable experience.

T-John
Zachary, LA
2009/2010 Season

When I first got here I was nervous. But it felt like home away from home. Everything was wonderful and amazing. I didn’t fill my tag, but saw many deer. I pulled back on a very nice 10 point, but it was to dark and I couldn’t see my pins on my bow. It was tough letting him walk. I didn’t want to wound him, but I know I did the right thing. I will definitely be back next year, hopefully filling my tag.Thank you Butler Farms, Mr. Don, and Mrs. Sandra, you were very helpful.

Chris Brown
Zachary, LA
2009/2010 Season

I had a great time here. The camp was nice and the land was beautiful. The deer were moving and I loved watching them.

Danny Beier
Zachary, LA
2009/2010 Season

I didn’t get to hunt at Butler Farms, but I did film every hunt, saw deer every hunt, and very nice ones too. It’s a very pretty place here. I will definitely be back to hunt and maybe kill my first buck.

Patrick Driskill
Zachery LA
2009/2010 Season

What a vacation we had!!

I would have loved to have gotten the big one, however, after many hunting trips in the past. I have learned that the true experience is not in the harvest of a large buck or doe, but the companionship of a husband that shares my passion for the outdoor’s and friends to laugh and share their personal experience of the day.

I have another memory of a hunt in a state that I had not yet traveled.

I saw deer, I saw big deer, and even the small deer are big to us. Your babies look like full grown Carolina whitetails.

I will not forget this hunt or the family who owns it. We Christians must always stick together and gather more to us!

Nan Pike
Staley, NC
2009/2010 Season

I enjoyed this hunt very much I didn’t get a deer but that’s not everything. Good Friends. The Butlers are family now and the best of friends I will miss them. But Lord willing we will meet again.

Don Pike
Staley, NC
2009/2010 Season

When a hunter heads to a new piece of property for a hunt there is always that little bit of uncertainty that it will be a hunt to forget, but here at Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures it should and will be a hunt you will never forget and talk aboutfor years.

Everyone back home will hear how great the land is; so much sign is on the property, and what an experience it was to hunt on! There should be no reason a hunter can’t be successful at Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures unless that hunter is not a real hunter!! Just a 3 hour walk on the lodge property put me in touch with more deer than I could have hunted, so I chose 2 sites, hung my stands, and was very successful with a 163 pound doe on my 2nd day, 3 rd hunt, and a 204 pounds, 9 pointer on my 4th day. So, to sum it all up, Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures provides an awesome hunting experience for the traditional hunter as long as she/he puts his/her sills to work, you will be successful.

Keith McCaskill
Southern Trophy Big Lotto Winner
Blythewood, SC
2008/2009 Season

I arrived at the farm on Friday the 7th of November around 9:00 a.m. That afternoon I went out and found some huge rubs in a real thicket. There were no trees in the area for a climber so I hung a hang-on. I left my climber in the woods for another time. The first morning I got in my stand before daylight. Within a few minutes it began to get daylight and I noticed a deer right under the back of my stand. It was a doe, but within 10 yards up the bank I noticed a large buck. At first I could not tell if he was a shooter, but once he moved, I could see that he was.

I had about a twenty yard shot. I hit low. He went and laid down, but when the doe starting leaving, the buck got up and began following her, and when he came under my stand, I shot him again. He ran up a steep bank and I could not see him. After about 3 hours, my buddy and I took his track. Tracked him for about ½ mile, then found where he had laid down about three times and we jumped him. We then left him and came back the next morning and tracked him another ¼ mile, then found him and finished him off. Great tracking and persistence paid off. He was an eleven point with a split brow. He dressed out at 200 pounds and scored around a 143 gross P&Y. My best buck to date.

I am going back home with my best hunting memories and best buck. Myself and my three buddies have had a hunt of a life time, 4 out of 4. We all have hunted many years and this is one for the books.

Thank You,
Gregg VanDeBogart
2008/2009 Season

I had a great Whitetail experience. The hunting was great. I saw more bucks this past week than in the several years past, hunting other areas. I took a good 8 pointer. I will be back for years to come. Thank you all for a great experience. Thanks to Don, Sandy and Mike for the hospitality.

Dr. John Glover
Pine Bluffs, AR
2008/2009 Season

This was my first time experience for me to travel and hunt. I enjoyed seeing so many bucks and so much activity. The hope and anticipation of that big buck stepping out was enough to stir the excitement. I loved the lodge and hospitality, you folks are absolute great. I didn’t harvest a deer this year, but definitely seen enough deer to look forward to next year.

Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, your sincere love for what you do to provide a great hunting experience. Your farm and lodge are absolutely beautiful and I look forward to seeing you next year.

Thank you so much
God Bless
Jeff Insley
White Hall, AR
2008/2009 Season

Another great experience at Butler Farms! My group saw numerous bucks and was able to kill 4 very nice bucks. We had said that if 1 or 2 of the 4 of us got a buck it would be great. Well, all 4 of us killed bucks! This was an excellent deer hunting experience. I can’t wait to come back some day. I don’t want to give up my little secret spot, but this is the place to be!

This was my 2nd trip here and once again it was awesome! Everyone is so helpful and the hunting continues to be the best I’ve ever seen.

Thanks
Kevin Lane
Woodstock, NY
2008/2009 Season

This was my first trip to Butler Farms, but I am surely hoping to return. The hunting was phenomenal and clearly exceeded my expectations. The service provided by the Butlers and their constant effort to keep everyone comfortable was outstanding. Any time you can share an experience with friends is great. Time spent at Butler Farms with friends, made a memory that will last me a lifetime!

I really appreciate all the efforts and outstanding service that made my hunt most memorable. Nothing was left to chance. I hope to return and once again share a truly great experience with friends. My hat is off for providing not only the Best Whitetail Hunting I’ve ever had in 30 years, but also for your efforts to make us feel at home.

Thank You
Mike Dodig
Saugerites. NY
2008/2009 Season

Great hunting experience 4 friends hoping to shoot a couple of bucks, and we shot 4 bucks and 1 doe. We saw lots of giant bucks on Butler Farms just not close enough for clean shot, but there always next year.

Tony Smith
Shokan, NY
2008/2009 Season

Thanks so much for making my family a part of your family. I always look forward to this time of year and spending time with you. Oh yeah, Mike to. It’s like coming home

May You Have A Blessed Year
God Bless
Terry Horton
Isaiah 60:1
White Hall AR
2008/2009 Season

This week at Butler Farms was an exciting and memorable hunt. Mr. Don and Mrs. Sandie provided us with a great place to stay, and the property is still unbelievable. The amount of bucks we seen this year were incredible. A lot of shooter bucks running around. This is my third year and it keeps getting better. I hope I can continue to come back. Butler Farms and Pike County has got to be one of the best places to hunt whitetails. Thanks, Big Daddy Don, and Miss Sandie, and Mike for being great hosts and friends.

Really appreciated the hospitality and fellowship of you guys. It’s going to be hard to go back home. Seen a lot of great deer and bucks. The lodge was great and we enjoy supper time, and all the folks. Hope you all have a great year and we will be back soon.

God Bless
Jerry West
AR
2008/2009 Season

This is my second year at the Butler’s and yet again a great experience. Huge bucks always seen and many opportunities are had. Great folks that take great pride in the facility and go “the extra mile” to make your stay perfect. I would never consider anywhere else in Illinois.

Yet again a wonderful trip and outstanding hunting experience! As usual, many big bucks seen and shots presented! Can not ask for more in a hunting trip. Best yet, I have come to value your friendship and look forward to reunions for years to come. A great family and a great place to have fun.

Looking forward to next year
Casey “Matthew” Becker
2008/2009 Season

I had a great time. The Lodge is great the people are extremely friendly.

Bill Brocker
Moncure NC
2008/2009 Season

For my first booked hunt in Illinois, I could not have come to a better place. The Butlers made me feel at home from the moment I arrived. The lodge at Butler Farms makes you feel like you never left home, yet the hunting lets you know you have. I looked forward to this hunt for so long and I was not disappointed. Even thought I was not fortunate enough to harvest a deer, I would definitely recommend to any one to plan a trip to Butler Farms.

The deer hunting here was the best five days of hunting of my life. The abundance of deer blew my mind. I will definitely book my next Illinois hunting trip at Butler Farms! I was unable to harvest a deer this past week. But the opportunities were there. I have never seen so many bucks from a tree stand in my 27 years on this earth as I did the past five days. I will count down the days until next year's hunt!

God Bless both of you and I will be back to see you again.

Ben Stafford
Land O Lakes, Florida
2007/2008 Season

Upon arrival at Butler farms we were greeted with smiling faces from the Butler’s. After a quick tour of the lodge and a review of the property layout from Mr. Don, we soon were off and scouting on the property we’re assigned.

The lodge was well equipped with everything you could ask for. It was just like being at home only better because you were in the big buck woods of Pike County.

Sleeping accommodations were great, food was excellent and the hospitality was second to none. Mr. & Mrs. Butler went above and beyond my expectations, and friendly as could be.
On the 16 hour road trip the anticipations and excitement were very high. As soon as we started scouting we realized that our dreams had come true. The property we hunted exceeded our expectations. Big bucks, scrapes, rub, and big does were all we expected. It was absolutely amazing, and the return trip could be even better.

Bryan Ricks
Lutz, FL
2007/2008 Season

As an avid and experienced whitetail hunter, I have high expectations for a hunting outfitter. The Butler Farms experience was truly superior. The lodge accommodations are like no other and the gracious hospitality of Don & Sandy & Mike (family) is unparalleled.

The number and quality of deer is outstanding. For a 5- day hunt, I was able to see over 6 bucks within shooting and many more close by. Really a whitetail dream come true! Opportunities abound, scenery is outstanding, and most of all – the company is like family.
This is a DON’T MISS for Illinois hunting.

Matthew Becker
Ohio
2007/2008 Season

I wanted to write you a note and tell you how much fun Tina and I had with you a couple of weeks ago. This being our second year with Butler Farms, Tina and I feel like Sandie and Don are a part of our family. You always make us feel welcome and like we are coming home when it gets to be that time of year.

I have hunted several other states, but I always feel at peace when it’s time to go to Butler Farms Lodge.

This year we had great weather and we saw a good number of bucks, including the biggest buck I have ever seen hunting. Although we did not get that one, I did harvest a really nice eight point that came in to the decoy. We also got really good footage of a number of nice bucks.
I want to again thank you, Mr. Don, Miss Sandie, and Mike for all the help you gave us, and also the hospitaility.

We look forward to seeing you again in the near future.

God Bless you, your family, and business
Isaiah 60:1
Terry Horton
Pro Staff Coordinator
Adventuture Bounds Outdoors
2007/2008 Season

We at Adventure Bound Outdoors are so proud to be able to come and hunt your property. You two are one of a kind. Your Lodge and property are wonderful. Great bucks and hunting. May God Bless you and your farms. I couldn’t imagine hunting anywhere else in Pike County.

Jerry West
Pro Staff
Adventures Bound Outdoors
2007/2008 Season

I’m so glad that God made our paths cross in life! It was awesome sharing deer camp with you in 2007. What great fun, food, and fellowship. Hunting is not all about the kill!

God Bless!
Roger Patton
A.B.O.
2007/2008 Season

I have been to Illinois twice before coming to Butler Farms. I have harvested 2 Pope & Young bucks which have caused me to be particular about the next buck I shoot. Although I saw bucks that would make many hunters happy, I opted to pass on them. The hunt does not have to have a kill to be successful. The friendships that were made will last a life time. I really enjoyed the family atmosphere with Sandie, Don, and Mike. It was as if we were old friends. I hope to come back next year.

Thanks for A Great Time
Ed Danneker
Williamsport, PA
2007/2008 Season

The hunting potential is outstanding at Butler Farms. The Butlers go out of their way to make you feel at home and like family. They truly care about doing everything they can to help you succeed. I hope to return again to continue my search for my deer of a lifetime and continue my friendship with Don, Sandie, and Mike.

Thank you for your caring and hospitality. I have learned that the size of the deer does not judge the size of the experience. Hope God continues to bless you and your family!

Rob Haas
Williamsport, PA
2007/2008 Season

Good Folks, Good Food, Good Deer!!

I really enjoyed the hospitality, Friendship, and fellowship I found during my stay. I only wish I had more time.

I will gladly refer hunters and would surely like to return myself.

Rick Phillips
Georgia
2007/2008 Season

I always enjoy the hunting experience at Butler Farms. Don and Sandie are very gracious and make you feel at home. They’re very hospitable and caring people. I would definitely recommend Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures to any prospective hunter.

Thanks to you both, as well as Matt & Mike for another year of hunting enjoyment. Looking forward to seeing you all again next year.

John K. White
Keyser, WV
2007/2008 Season

This was my first visit at Butler Farms. Don, Sandie and family make you feel like you never left home. First rate accommodations in a first rate lodge leaves you wanting for nothing.

Thanks again for the hospitality. Even though my first trip wasn’t a successful one, I can see the potential. Hope to bring my son back next trip.

God Bless
Eric White
Keyser,WV
2007/2008 Season

The quality of deer I saw while hunting was great. I saw more bucks than does. On the 2nd day of my hunt (November 7th, 2006 ) I hunted the morning from dark until 11:09 a.m. without a lot of action. I decided to relocate and was all set up in a new spot (moved stand, etc.) by 1:15 p.m. At 1:40, a large deer came out into a picked corn field about 200 yards to my north. The deer actually winded another hunter in my party, and as a result headed towards the draw I was set up in. The deer went down into the deep draw and I saw that it was definitely a shooter. He came back up the draw on my side and immediately “made” me in my tree.

As he was about to leave, he offered me a brief 28 yard, quartering away shot. The shot was perfect and the brute of a ten point 80 yards and it was over in literally 5 seconds! The deer had run back in the direction of my hunting partner and we were able to share an experience of a life time together. That hour or so after the shot is exactly why I came to Butler Farms and is exactly why I hunt. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was standing over a 148 typical 10 pt buck with 25” main beams and field dressed at 190 lbs: all of which was great, but sharing it with hunting buddies was better. Thank God that deer smelled my buddy!

As I approached the lodge with my deer, Mrs. Butler was clearing the yard of leaves on a lawn tractor, she raised her arms in triumph and was happier that I was. The Butlers were obviously happy for me and made sure we had everything we needed. It was a week than anybody would love.

Kevin Lane
Woodstock, NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

I would come back to Butler Farms in a heart beat. I loved the lodge, the farm and the big deer. The Butlers were very nice and I felt very comfortable. They Made us feel like family.
I had a wonderful time at the lodge. I thoroughly enjoyed the 5 day stay.

Thank you Sandy, Don, and Mike for making my stay here one I will cherish for a lifetime. I certainly hope to make it back someday.

Thanks A Million.

Wallace Fulford
Shokan, NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

I will bring home great memories of the deer, the lodge, the friends, and the hospitality. Unfortunately I will not bring home a big Illinois buck. Maybe next time.

Hope to return.

Paul Wright
Boiceville, NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

I saw deer everyday I was in the woods and only one day I did not see a shooter buck. I only hunted 3 of 5 days because I tagged a 156” 220 lb, 12 point on the first day at 6:45.am.

This is the nicest place I have ever stayed. Great food and better people. This was the best hunt ever. Thank you Sandie, Don and Mike. I will be back to harvest one bigger than this monster 156.”

Thank You!!

Tony Smith
Shokan, NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Excellent place to hunt, good company and excellent hospitality. Good luck in the business and keep the big bucks her. I will return

Jeff Pifer
Union City, PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Super experience, very comfortable accommodations. The Butlers are great people to be around. Don was a great help with his ATV and Sandy your like a mother hen taking care of everyone and making sure we were all comfortable. As for the hunting experience lots of bucks lots of young class deer up and coming. I saw 3 shooter bucks from one stand four total out of a 5 day hunt.

Great experience for a quality whitetail hunt, great numbers of bucks . I’m taking this hunt home with me and spread it around. I will return! The whole trip lodge, food plus hunting was awesome

Thanks.

Rich McCullough
Waterford, PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

I always wondered if there was a Whitetail Heaven. After four days at the Butler Farms I know now there is one. Great hunting and better hospitality.. I hope to return someday to knock another arrow.

Thank you Sandie, Don and Mike. Best Regards.

Mike Iopace
Kingston, NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Great place, great people, great deer. Hope to make it back someday. Thanks again Don and Sandie for the awesome hospitality. Good luck with the business

Thanks.

Sean Fox
Kingston , NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Had a great time. About the third day of the hunt I was walking around scouting for another stand site. It was around 70 degrees and I was near on of the corn fields. Out in the field was a huge buck. He winded me and started blowing at me, then ran out of the field right toward my friend who was in a stand. He shot it and it died 30 yards from me. Then we had a photo shoot. He scored 148” 10 point. Two bucks taken by our party a 156 and a 148. Can’t ask for more.
What a great time. Could not ask for more. Quality of deer and numbers. Great accommodations.

G. VanDebogart
Bearsville, NY
Winter 2006/2007 Season

This was my second time at Butler farms Outdoor Adventures and as always Sandie, Don and Mike are very pleasant people to be around and run an excellent accommodations and hunting. I had a great time, even though I didn’t connect on a deer I still had a good hunt on Mike’s Farm. I enjoyed the five day we spent with Wayne and Rodney. They are great guys.

Thanks Again.

Jeff Novosel
PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

This was my first time at Butler Farms, I have hunted a lot of places and was never treated any better than I have by all of you.

You guys have a s wonderful operation and I had a great time meeting all of you. I did not connect, but I had a great time. I saw a lot of bucks and does while on stand. As far as your facilities all I can say is “Top Notch”

Best of luck to all of you.

Robb Kimble
Howard, PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Thank you for a great hunt. It was a great week of hunting. I saw a lot of deer. You have a great family. It is nice to always have someone that is willing to help with whatever it is you’re doing. We felt like we were part of the family. This is a class “A” operation. I had fun answering questions from your grand-daughters. Thanks again for everything. Take care and looking forward to coming back.

God Bless.

Bob
PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

What a great place to hunt, relax, and visit with new friends and old! I truly feel like I am back home hunting with family when here. Don and Sandie are some of God’s very special people and share each of our experiences as if their own. I treasure our times together and look forward to many more! Our friendship is bound together through God. He will Bless you both for what you do for others.

Thank You Both and Good Luck.

Wayne Hagan
Statesboro, Florida
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Don and Sandy go out of their way to offer a place for safe and memorable hunt in a Christian atmosphere. The lodge and land are top notch. I always look forward to my Illinois trip.

Rodney Cattoor
Orlando, Florida
Winter 2006/2007 Season

This was my second archery hunt in two years. I shot two does and have yet to get my big buck. I have seen lots of shooters, but just not close enough.. I will be back.
I am very glad to have met Don and Sandie, they’re great people.

Thanks A lot.

Scott Kephart
Philipsburg, PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Another Great week of hunting. Don , Sandie & Michael did another great job! Everything was 1st class. I saw lots of deer. Including a couple of very good bucks. I was just not able to get close enough. It meant more to me that my father was able to close the—on a very nice 9 point. That was the first priority when we came here a year ago. I hope to be back next year with our current group along with a couple new hunters. Thank you all again for a GREAT week.

Fran Kephart
Wattsburg, PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

I Had A Good Year! Seen Lots of Deer!

Francis Kephart
West Decatur, PA
Winter 2006/2007 Season

This was my second trip to Butler Farms. I harvested my second buck, and was very pleased. It was my first time to stay in the new lodge and I will tell you it is first class in all aspects. It is beautiful, comfortable and very convenient. I have never seen so many bucks in my life! Don and Sandie run a first class operation. Their sons Mike and Matt help you in so many ways, and the family is really happy to share the excitement of your hunt and experiences you have.

They go “above and beyond” to accommodate your expectations in Illinois, because I have found everything I want in a hunting trip, right here at Butler Farms! They are honest people and my testimony is the truth also. Thanks for all the little things that mean so much. I enjoyed my hunt so much. I wish your family much success and blessings.

Thank you Don, Sandie, Mike , and Matt

Jan Poland
Keyser, WV
Winter 2006/2007 Season

This is my 3rd successful shotgun firearm season hunting with Butler farms Outdoor Adventures. I have been able to harvest an 8 point, 9 point and a 10 point buck in as many years. I’m looking forward to returning again in 2007.

I had a great time hunting. Always look forward to seeing Don, Sandie, Mike and Matt. Great people. They make you feel right at home. Hope they have a lot of success in their future endeavors.

Kenny White
Kesper, WV 26726
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Thank you Mr. Don & Sandie for the great time. You have an awesome place to hunt whitetails. The lodge is great. (nice job) May God Bless everything you do and may many people be blessed by you as they come to hunt.

Jerry West
Adventure Bound Outdoors
Winter 2006/2007 Season

Mr. Don, Sandie and Mike

Tina and I had a great time here this week. You made us feel like a part of your family.. The deer hunting was great. The lodge is very special and classy. I look forward to coming back and seeing all of you again. I pray that God will bless you and your family and business.

Thanks Again.

Blessings.

Terry Horton
Adventure Bound Outdoors
Taking You On Adventures In God’s Country
Isaiah 60:1
Winter 2006/2007 Season

I had such a great time this week even if I didn’t “Bag the Big One”. I still have my tag and plan on coming back!! You have a great place here and we really felt at home. May God show you favor in this business and all that you do.

Tina Horton
Adventure Bound Outdoors
Numbers 6: 24-26
Winter 2006/2007 Season

"I had a Great Hunt. I saw many deer. 21 bucks total of which 5 were 120-160 class P&Y. I will be back. Accommodations and food were great."

Fran Kephart
Wattsburg, PA

"This is my first trip to Illinois, and Butler Farms. I have been impressed with the deer population on the Butler Farm grounds. The deer are not pressured as you can see by their reaction to the hunters. I would recommend anyone to a hunt here. The deer are here!!!! The accommodations are First Class! You have to see it first hand to appreciate the work the Butler's have done to build a first class hunting lodge. I will be back! Thank you for a terrific hunt and make my first trip to Illinois a memorable one."

Kevin Robison
Frostburg, MD

"Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures is a first class facility. Don and Sandy are two exceptional people who go out of their way to make sure everything is above what you expected. They are a close knit family, who all pitch in to please. You'll not find a more hospitable place to hunt. The quality of deer is everything you’ve heard about in Pike country. Your stay there will be "Five Star" in the country."

Wayne Hagan
Statesboro, GA

"This is my fourth hunt at Butler Farms and I've enjoyed each time immensely. The Butler family is very accommodating. The new lodge is very nice and convenient to the hunters. The hunting is great and I'm looking forward to next year's hunt. Thanks to Don, Sandie, Matt, Mike and Michelle for everything. Wishing you all much success in the future."

Kenny White
Keyser, WV

"It's my second year of hunting with Butler Farms. It has been great in sharing in the expansion of the business. I'm glad the lodge design has been well received. I'm sure this is only the first stepping stone to many great things to come."

Rodney Cattoor
Orlando, Florida

"They are very honest about their lodge, property and the quality of deer. They make you feel like you are part of the family. You can not find a better place to stay. The property that I hunted had a very good buck to doe ratio and plenty of quality bucks. They make you feel like you're hunting on your own property. Thank you for everything. You guys are great."

Robert Singer
Pleasant Gap, PA

"Had a great time. Can't wait to return. A lot of value for the price. Good people to spend you vacation with. Thanks!"

Kevin Novosel
Howard, PA

"Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures offers excellent lodging and deer hunting experience."

Jeffery Novosel
Howard, PA

"I had a wonderful time here. I enjoyed the hospitality of the whole Butler family. I really appreciate Mike's help looking for deer and getting deer out of the woods. The whole experience was really enjoyable. I hope you will have me back next year and I would really like to bring my wife. I think she would like the experience. Thanks to everyone."

Carl Bradfield
Keyser, WV

"What can I say? Our trip to Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures was truly an outstanding lifetime experience! I always wanted to go on an out of state deer hunt, but had hear too many "horror" stories about some outfitters. I told Kenny I would give it a try once. After seeing for myself the friendliness, hospitality and sincere concern for our hunt and stay there, it was quite apparent that your honesty came first. The friendship alone on this trip was worth it all. I came home with a 9 pt buck, but more important was the 5 new friends I made. Matt, Mike and Michelle treated us like family and we will never forget that. The farms are beautiful, the peace and quiet and the way they are managed are first class! After harvesting 2 bucks, your help, excitement and congratulations all come from the heart."

"I say thank you to all of you for indeed making a lifetime memory. I hope to return one day, and I will highly recommend Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures to all hunters!"

"May God continue to bless you all, as he has blessed us!"

Jan F. Poland
November 25, 2004

John K. White"This is my second year to archery and shot gun hunt with Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures. The hunting was great! My friend Jan and I were both able to harvest a 2 1/2 year old nine point and a 3 1/2 year old ten point respectively during the shot gun season."

"Don, Sandie, Mike and Matt really make the hunt a great experience."

"Top notch outfitters and a great family. Don & Sandie do everything possible to make the hunt a memorable experience. Thanks also to Mike, Matt and Michelle. I really enjoyed and valve your friendship and hospitality."

"I'm looking forward to hunting with Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures again next year."

John K. White
November 22, 2004

Robert L. Hart"Today I shot probably my best Whitetail buck ever. Had a great hunt, only took 1 1/2 days. The Butlers have been so nice, helpful and thoughtful to me that I am already booking next year. I would recommend them and this hunt to any and everyone. I can't wait until next year. This has truly been a great experience. Only wish I could have shot another buck just to stay here longer. Next year I am thinking very hard about trying to draw a shot gun tag so I can bow hunt a buck and then shot gun hunt for a 2nd one."

Robert L. Hart
November 13, 2004

"Of all of my hunting experiences, this was definitely the best. Don and Sandie did everything to make it a great hunt. Don even suggested where to move my stand and I shot my buck the next night. I saw more bucks than does and at least three of the bucks were record book deer. Considering that we had two days of heavy rain, we saw deer nearly every time in the woods and had several opportunities to harvest deer."

Larry Janke
November 6, 2004

"I had a great time. This is a good Christian family. They go the extra step to make you feel at home. I think their goal is to have a happy, safe hunting experience while you are at their farm. Thanks for a great hunt."

Dick Warren
November 6, 2004

"I had a great hunt and I would have said that even if I had not harvested an animal. I saw eight different bucks at least. I saw more scrapes than I can count. Sandie and Don are just the nicest people you could hope to meet. Their son Mike was very helpful, a great person also. There were no surprises, everything was just as it was described. I feel I got my monies worth and would like to come back next year if I can."

Jerry Emhoff
November 6, 2004

Lowell L. Thill"I hunted with Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures with Black Powder rifle on December 12 and 13, 2003 and was very pleased with what I found. First, the properties have all the indicators of good whitetail habitat. Secondly, I was impressed with the number of whitetails I saw and that they were not spooked by my presence even though I had deer twice at less than 30 yards and once down wind of me at only 13 yards. I should point out that I was hunting on the ground. To me this is a solid indicator that hunting pressure on these properties is minimal. Thirdly, in four hunting sessions I saw a total of 36 deer including 6 that could be recognized as bucks; three of which could be identified as book quality. I would consider one buck as 150 or better. Fourthly, it was obvious to me that the rut was still on since 3 bucks were tending does and a fourth buck was obviously on patrol looking for a doe. Fifthly, there was little hunting pressure near one property and no hunting pressure on properties near the other properties that I hunted. I look forward to returning in 2004."

Lowell L. Thill
Sonshine Adventures: (765) 569-7638

"I had the opportunity to hunt an 80 acre tract offered by Butler Farms Outdoor Adventures during the shotgun season from November 21-23, 2003. It was everything I expected and more. I was able to scout the acreage two days before opening day. I saw a lot of deer sign and knew the potential of harvesting a mature Illinois buck was evident. I did see a nice 140 class buck at dusk on Wednesday evening, November 19, 2003."

"I was able to set my tree stands up wherever I wanted. Hunting pressure on nearby properties was minimal. Although I didn't harvest the trophy buck I was looking for, I plan to return to the same 80 acre tract during both bow and shotgun seasons in 2004. I will have two other bow hunters with me during the bow season and another hunting friend with me during the shotgun season. We are all avid hunters and look forward to hunting with Butler Farms in 2004. The potential is there and hopefully we will be able to capitalize on our adventure this year!"

Kenny White
Keyser, WV

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