Does Shooting small bucks benefit the trophy hunter?

[Planter]

I know it doesn't make sense but if everyone in your woods is shooting small bucks doesn't that leave the smarter more mature bucks for you?

I saw bigger deer this year than I ultimately killed so they are still out there for someone else.

[GMMAT]

If you mean they've tagged out on small bucks and are no longer hunting.....I'd agree.

[Ben / PA]

Maybe in the short term.....this year. Big ones don't get big by getting shot two years before reach maturity.

[LittleChief]

I'd have to say for this season and next, maybe. It's definitely not helping you out in the long run, though.

[130woodman]

If everyone shots a 1.5 year old buck than the next couple of years are going to suck.

[Schultzy]

Not even close! All It does Is possibly let the bigger get bigger.

[magicman54494]

I vote to let some of the stupid ones get older. I'd have a much better chance shooting a stupid 5 yr old[8D]

[Planter]

If your hunting woods that you know hold big deer and the guy down the ridge pops a fork and fills his tag doesn't thatleave the big one for you or is the effect cumulative

I know science would not support but it makes weak sense..

[LittleChief]

ORIGINAL: magicman54494

I vote to let some of the stupid ones get older. I'd have a much better chance shooting a stupid 5 yr old[8D]

Okay,... That was funny. Sadly, a lot of us are right there with you.

[LittleChief]

ORIGINAL: Planter

If your hunting woods that you know hold big deer and the guy down the ridge pops a fork and fills his tag doesn't thatleave the big one for you or is the effect cumulative

I know science would not support but it makes weak sense..

Well, it will definitely improve your odds for this year.