Ok, here's the scoop. I spoke to Mr. Smith at Region #3 today. Really a nice guy, and very helpful. Turns out they did try to call me back the day I called them....I just missed the message.

The general skinny is that any restrictions will be listed on the permit. Barring any restrictions Hunting at night with a light (or without) is fine and Using a rifle is fine. I didn't think to ask about the antlered/antlerless thing, but I'm sure the answer would be the same....check the permit. General information is all I was looking for, and he was very obliging.

As for the meat.....he said it's excellent this time of year....cooling is the issue. He said it will turn out much better if it is let hang in a cooler for a few days before being cut up and frozen, rather than being butchered and frozen immediately after the kill. He said something about if it is frozen immedately it would be tougher than boot leather.

Anyhow...I've got to call my partner now and give him the scoop...if all goes well I'll have some fresh venison in about 24 hours.