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Re: Re: Re: Re: deer meeting
Submitted by Sherb <samlang62@hotmail.com> on 03/Jul/2008 in reply to Re: Re: Re: deer meeting posted by Ed Gallo / Director /F&W Board on 02/Jul/2008
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As I was the person who inquired as to why archery hunters were always the group given the opportunity to take excess deer, I will respond.
There is no argument that it is much more difficult to take a deer, or any animal, with a bow and arrow, than a rifle. Same argument with a Muzzle Loader when compared to a rifle, or a handgun when compared to a rifle.
However, the emphasis for taking the extra deer is for herd management. Historically, rifle hunters were allowed to take does; it goes way way back, and most recently up to the late "90's.
Therefore when it comes time to better regulate the deer herd, in recent years, it has (seemingly anyways) always been the "bow hunter" who is given the opportunity. I contend that if the F&W Dept is real serious about regulating the herd numbers, then they would issue "doe" permits to the group that realistically can accomplish the job!
I also heard Dr. Haskell state, at the Lyndonville meeting, that it does not make too much difference, as today's "bow and arrow shooter is as good as a hunter with a gun". I happen to agree with his assessment.
I used to be able to shoot a bow, and as much as I would like to, can no longer do so due to health reasons. Therefore, I like many others do not have the option of taking up the sport.
Irrespective of what reason(s)hunters are allowed to harvest the "extra" deer, it should be fair and balanced for all hunters.
Currently bow hunters have a 21 day bow only season, pretty much statewide. They are allowed either buck or doe.
Rifle/shotgun hunters are allowed a 16 day BUCK ONLY season. Muzzle loaders or "Black powder" hunters have a 7 day season and it is BUCK ONLY.
So when you consider hunter "opportunity", it is clear that the bow hunters have more opportunity.
I do not advocate for taking anything away from the bow hunters. What I am suggesting is giving the Muzzleloader hunters an opportunity to shoot the extra deer, when the time comes that F&W feels they need to reduce the deer herd in specific areas. Lets have a bit of "fair and balanced" consideration and opportunity for all forms of hunters.
Rifle hunters and Muzzle loaders like the taste of doe meat as well as Bow hunters.
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