In the past decade, the deer hunting world has been inundated with catch phrases like antler restrictions, age-class restrictions and all sorts of management plans. The overall theme suggests deer hunters are solely obsessed with trophy deer. In some ways, that obsession is there. But the idea behind so many of the restrictions you read about really center on creating a healthy deer herd, and big bucks are just a residual effect. “I always get a little miffed when I hear people refer to these management plans as a mania for trophies,’’ Dr. James Kroll said. “Bigger antlered bucks are a benefit, but the whole purpose for having antler restrictions is to increase age structure that in turn creates a healthy herd.” Dr. Kroll, known as Dr. Deer to many, has been at the forefront of deer management for over three decades. Some might even refer to him as the father of modern-day deer management. While some folks may view antler restriction management plans as a way to more trophy bucks, that idea is ultimately a misnomer that doesn’t matter. Continue reading……
.