Ahh, the AR debate.
First off, let me say that I have no problem with someone killing whatever they want, as long as its legal. Though, from a management standpoint, I think it is wrong.
I also think everyone gets antler restrictions mixed up with trophy hunting.
In an area where the buck to doe ratio is out of wack it would be very useful. Instead of killing a small buck, someone would be more apt to kill a doe, thus bringing the ratio back in check. Think about it, 1 less buck killed and one more doe killed, thatsa 2 deer swing closer to a better ratio. There would then be more mature bucks to do the breeding, and there would also be less does bred during the second estrous.This would easily create a healthier deer herd.
ORIGINAL: -DeerSlayer-
Antler restrictions are a bad idea in my true opinion. I have always disliked the fact that if there is a mature deer with a little amount of points, I can't kill it to manage my land? It defeats the whole purpose of management. Points are genetic and I have a couple 2-3 1/2 6 pts. running around my property, and IF we had AR's, I would not be able to take them out of my deer herd. I am against the idea, but others like it because it makes hunters pass on smaller bucks, but again, I have saw many yearlings with 8 or more points running around, anyone could take them out because they have a decent amount of POINTS, but are not MATURE. The whole thing is silly in my view.
DS
DeerSlayer, I see your point in your area. The difference is you are managing your deer herd as a trophy herd, yet it is also a quality herd. It is my understanding that a trophy herd is also a quality herd. I believe it would be a good idea in areas that need work on the
quality of the herd. It is a much easier solution than trying to teach people whata mature deer looks like.
In most of Wisconsin, the ratio is messed up. I believe the DNR knows what needs to be done, but is afraid to lose the revenue. As far as management of the deer herd, ARs need to be in place. When the DNR does decide to do something about it, other than earn-a-buck, they need to educate the public some time in advance. It is not something a lot of people are going to be for, and should be introduced slowly.
I guess my answer to the poll was No, but I sure hope to in the future.