15-Year-Old Bentley Lane Harvests 233-Pound Buck in Maine

UPDATE: A remarkable hunting achievement occurred on Saturday morning when 15-year-old Bentley Lane of Hartland bagged a stunning 233-pound, 8-point buck using his grandfather’s rifle. The successful hunt took place on the family’s property, marking a significant moment for both Bentley and his family.

Just after sunrise, while hunting alongside his father, Ray Lane, Bentley spotted the deer on the southeast edge of the field. From his tree stand, he expertly aimed his Browning A-Bolt .30-06 rifle, a treasured piece that belonged to his grandfather, Lewis Elliot, nearly three decades ago.

Using two grunt calls to capture the buck’s attention, Bentley fired once, followed by a second shot as the deer dashed toward the woods. After a brief search, the father-son duo discovered the deer approximately 25 yards from the field’s edge.

“

He was patient, calm, and confident. That’s what hunting’s all about — family, tradition, and spending time together outdoors,”

Ray Lane shared, reflecting on the meaningful experience.

The celebration continued as Bentley’s mother, Gretchen Lane, and a family friend arrived to join in the excitement. After field dressing the deer, the family engaged in their traditional “guess the weight” game, confirming the buck’s impressive weight at 233 pounds at the Newport Trading Post. This marked Bentley’s eighth deer harvest and stood as one of his largest to date.

For Bentley, the day was not just about the hunt. “Using my grandfather’s rifle and sharing this moment with family made it unforgettable,” he expressed, highlighting the emotional significance of the experience.

Later that day, Bentley took to the field again, contributing to his team’s victory over Medomak Valley as part of Nokomis’ starting front line. This day of triumph was marked by both family bonding and athletic achievement, making it a truly memorable occasion for young Bentley Lane.

Stay tuned for more updates on local hunting successes and community events!