how is targeting ANY buck better?
I have never given the "opinion" that it was.
I'd say most hunters have that same desire, and those who say they don't are lying or really need the meat as part of their survival
So if they don't agree with your opinion, (few are subsitance hunters), they are probably lying? Not too broad a stroke there is it?
No one has ever said that AR would make individual deer more healthy, as your question implies we have, but that it would make the herd more healthy as a whole by bringing about a more balanced age structure
So if the individuals are all heathy and thriving, are you saying the herd is unhealthy - your opinion of course?
So that leads to my question to you: if a thriving herd is all of ours goal, not in regards to antler size, but in proper age structure and maintaining a healthy breeding, stable population
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First, I would need to know the "health" of the entire herd was in danger before attempting any statewide program - proof, not "opinion".
Second, I would have to understand how narrowing the pressure onto the best of the 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 could possibly be better then keeping the pressure on the entire buck herd.
Third , how is a 90 class 2 1/2 8 point buck ( young, immature deer)any more a trophy then a spike, and why should your opinion that it is weigh heavier then the hunter happy with his spike.
There are many others - you are pushing for change. Therefore
proof that the changes would be beneficial is a burdan that is yours. You cannot possibly be suggesting that the entire state should impliment your "opinion" simple because you think it will help something ( still undefined)?
Tell me that you and all points based AR/TM guys are not shooting any buck not mature (at least 4 1/2) to do your personal bit at helping to provide " a proper age structure and maintain a healthy breeding, stable population" and I would be impressed. Otherwise all you have is an opinion (like others) and not a case for dictating to all hunters how they hunt.
Steve