Absolutely!

Although it isn't about "the Book".

I am intrigued by many of the replies. If antler size wasn't important to most hunters, there wouldn't be the high demand for the prime hunting areas that there is in the various parts of the country. Magazine covers would sure look a lot different, and the name Mitch Rompola would only spark a discussion if he was your neighbor or relative.

Having said that, it doesn't matter to me what someone elses preferences are. If a hunting partner shoots a small deer I congratulate him and enjoy "his moment" just the same as I would if it was a "Booner". The fun of course is in the journey not just the destination.

But for me, my mission is to let the string go on a mature buck. I do not need, nor do I seek, validation from anyone else on any buck that I am lucky enough to get. In fact most of the people in my area don't have any idea if I get a good buck or not. I don't show off any of my kills. I obtain what I seek in the magnificent memories and satisfaction that I carry of the encounter with that animal. Memories, not only of that particular animal, but many others that I observe, and interact with, in the course of my pursuit of a mature deer. In that respect my experience is no different than most of the replies to this post, just that in most cases, size usually comes with maturity, therefore yes, I do care what the buck scores.

I am fortunate to live where I do. I am not elbow to elbow competing with seven dozen other hunters for a year and a half old six point. I can afford to be picky. If some of my tags go unfilled, I don't fret.

I didn't always feel this way. Just getting a deer used to be all I needed. But as with many things in life, time changes a person. In part because of where I live, in part because of the time I can spend on stand, number of deer killed, and certainly because I love the challenge mature animals present, my hunting experience has evolved to the point where I get no satisfaction in taking a young animal. Of course a mature animal doesn't automatically equal a 140 + class buck, but the odds are certainly better for an older buck to be a heavier horned animal.


If size equals "score" then yes, I do care what a buck scores. I would be lying if I said no.