Quote:
Originally Posted by Nuck99
No, you're wrong. I allow hunting on my property.
I have 15 different hunters. I understand the importance of good hunters and friends. They are my eyes and ears.
This isn't about me. I have a big bull on my wall and do not need another one.
I had a herd of 70 elk on my land last year. Of the 70 animals, 5 were spike bulls.
It's a shame when there are no breeding animals left after the hunting season. I don't think that is good management.
Like I said in my earlier post, if they want to reduce the elk population, issue more antlerless tags.
I believe the harvest of bulls should be done on a limited basis. Issue a limited number of tags for 6 point bulls, issue a limited number of tags for 5 point bulls and issue a limited number of tags for all other bulls.
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The bulls may not winter with the cows. Or there are very few left, or both.
You’re right it isn’t good management from a pure scientific point of view. I have my doubts that licensed hunters are really killing that many big bulls. I will admit we are a source of additive mortality, but I don’t think draw changes could tip the balance back. Too many other ways for them to die.
Every time a land owner says he wants to get rid of some elk, I’ve had nothing but a whole bunch of excuses when trying to get access. Lots of talk no walk. If you’re doing things better, good on ya. I get defensive whenever people try to cut the few OTC opportunities we have left. Seems the only management that happens in Alberta is putting things on draw.
I don’t know what else to say about the hunters passing cows...Many of us would love to put a cow elk in the freezer every year. I don’t need another mount either. Hell if I didn’t have a moose draw I’d offer to show up and arrow the first cow that walks in range