Hey guys, i guess Ive been off grid for awhile and need to read the full proposal on the FWP website as I'm not entirely clear on what the objective is with this. Is it just for increased opportunity, or is it partially based on reaching population objectives for specific units? I've seen management proposals run the full gamut of ideas, but the most consistent way for maintaining a reasonable age structure is conservative harvest of any/all age classes of bucks. I personally don't like point restrictions as the definition of trophy is vastly different for everyone, but I do highly support units in any state where harvest will be limited enough to support strong densities of all age classes. Please don't mistake my meaning, I live in a state where opportunity is the highest priority as well, but when/where there is room to allow them-these special units should be managed differently.
Montana Trophy Mule Deer Areas Are In Jeopardy
- Thread starter Montana
- Start date
Thanks Plainsman... check it out. Buck numbers are high no doubt. But a general increase will absolutely destroy one of the two units. I have suggested allowing the additional permits to go to the youth. Eventhough trophy deer are in this unit, you and I both know how hard it still is to connect. Allowing the youth the additional tags is a win-win in my opinion. It helps get the buck numbers down and it will help maintain the number of trophy animals. Most youth are not able to hold out for 15-20 days to connect on a true trophy. It's just too tough both mentally and physically. I feel this would be a compromise between the hunter and the state, while giving a great opportunity for our youth.
These are just my opinions of course.
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These are just my opinions of course.
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Eberle
Veteran member
I've never hunted in Montana, maybe one day I'll make up there. I agree with you and will voice my opinion.
So…I've had a chance to review the proposal and look over the 2014 harvest stats so far. I'm curious to know what buck:doe ratios look like in either of these units, and how do they compare to ideal management objectives. It's interesting to see the number of > 4point mule deer bucks that are harvested, but it would be asking a lot for age data. I don't think MT collects teeth annually do they? My question is though, could they provide more hunter opportunity by issuing a few more antler less only licenses, or are ratios a little more skewed towards too many bucks (I feel like that's an almost crucifiable statement, but it can happen)? Not trying to play devils advocate here, but ideally buck:doe ratios in the mule deer world achieve the best of all worlds around 33:100. Where that can get exceptionally tricky though, is once license numbers are increased, reducing them quickly can be very tough for a game management agency for the very same reasons making increases is difficult. I'm starting to think out loud which could be dangerous since I don't live there. I'm gonna submit my comments after I can review more of the demographic info on those units. I'd sure hate to see something good get turned upside down.
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Plainsman... curious to see if you found more info. As mentioned the area has no lack of bucks and the ratio is quite up there. But IMO a general increase is not the solution. Last year, out of 45 tags less than 5 deer over 180 inches came out of the unit, and that statement covers it pretty broad, i am only aware of 2. Harvest was roughly 66% (we have a random survey system). Hunters eat the tag by choice. For one of the best units in state there should be more 180 plus deer harvested. I'd love to see our youth get these additional tags. I'll simmer down on my opinions here... even I'm tired of hearing myself so I'm sure the rest of you are too[emoji2]
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Wild Country
Active Member
Montana....thanks for posting up this information! I gave FWP my two cents so let's hope if they do anything they a lot them to the youth!
Bitterroot Bucks
New Member
I stay pretty connected to the unit. I know the warden personally. Know most of the taxidermist. But the most valuable information comes from the hunters. Over the last 4 years I know people who have had the tag. And they stay connected to one another to share what's going. And of course we have a check station.
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Update... I am greatly pleased to announce we did it. FWP has decided to not increase the permits in unit 270. And in 261 reduce the increased tags down from the initial proposal. Thank you to all for your support and it goes to show how we can make a difference individually.
Thanks again.
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Thanks again.
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hvfd21walker
Active Member
Way to lead the charge buddy. It's always good to have someone help everyone else get motivated!!
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Matthoek21
Veteran member
sneakypete
Veteran member
Wild Country
Active Member
It wouldn't have happened unless you let us know about it....everyone should take Montana's lead with anything going on in your State so we can all voice our opinions and actually make a difference!!! Good Job Montana!!!