Arkansas racks?

Gobbling Buck · 12-28-2003, 11:51 PM

I'm originally from the Natural State and wondered if you fella's have seen any improvements in the overall rack size of your deer since the 3 points on one side rule has been in effect. I know there are a few, but was wondering about the big picture.

RugerNo.1 · 12-30-2003, 09:12 AM

I have definitely seen a difference where I hunt. I am not going to say any miracles happened or anything, but it has made a difference. As far as I am concerned, they can go to a four point rule on one side statewide, possibly with a provision that would allow young hunters (say 16 and under) to take one smaller buck per year. However, one of the proposals for the up-coming season is to do away with the three point rule, I think that this would be the biggest step backwards that the AGFC could possibly take. There are going to be several meetings statewide at different locations on Jan. 6. We all need to go out and have our opinions heard. Just my .02 though.

stealthycat · 12-30-2003, 12:06 PM

Bigger racks, yes, 50-70% fewer deer too.

nitro23 · 01-01-2004, 08:46 PM

i dont really think so i think we have bad genes in here now all i have seen is small bucks this year and i hunt in cross county i think it needs to be taking off for a year or two

stealthycat · 01-02-2004, 02:42 PM

bad genes ? Are you kidding me ? Arkansas has produced more bigger bucks in the past 5 years then they did between like 1970 and 1995 ! genetics is the least of your worries when it comes to big racks - age and food are the #1 ingredients.

If you're talking 200+ typical inches or something like that then yeah, genetics plays bigger roles. But Arkansas has got the genetics - most herds do - to produce big racks given the age and food to do it.

PowDuck · 01-05-2004, 07:51 AM

Yes, we are seeing bigger racks on our lease in Ouachita County. Not huge but bigger, older deer. Well, I did see one HUGE deer, 10 minutes after tagging out with my last bullet. [:'(] I certainly don't think they need to eliminate the 3-point rule. Not sure about going to a 4-point rule, though. I think 3's good.

txbowjunkie · 01-05-2004, 02:01 PM

I've hunted AR for years. Same ol story, big bodies with small racks regardless of age or points.

bogobble · 01-06-2004, 07:45 AM

No big racks down here in south central Ar. we're seein more buck, but not bigger racks. at least not on our lease.