Gates said he took the deer somewhere between 90 and 95 yards with a 7 mm rifle.

As the winner, Gates won a $1,000 cash prize, a free head mount and an Ole Man Tree Stand.

King won a $500 cash prize. Gates said he couldn’t wait to defend his title next season.

“I’m gonna sign up again,” he said. “I’ll get right back in it.”

Gates said he took the deer in Pleasant Hill at the Little Pond Hunting Club.

Rountree Outdoors owner Chet Chappelle said he was pleased with the turnout for the 2011-12 contest and expects even more this year.

“I think we’ll see a lot more people getting involved next season,” he said.

“Hopefully we can put together an even bigger prize package and get some more sponsors on board. Next year should be even bigger.”