Nebraska just implimented earn a buck for rifle hunters in the units that I bow hunt, they left the bowhunters alone for now. I would like to hear from people what you think of the earn a buck program. What is your opinion of the program? Did you see population change? Did you see age structure change in the bucks that you see?
I wish we would implement that here in Tennessee. Our doe to buck ratio is way off and I think it would help. It amazes me that people will shoot spikes all day but will not shoot a doe.
I would rather see a program like that, that will at least give the sportsman the tag to harvest an animal than to open it up for sharp shooters or game wardens like they do here in northern illinois. I know it's kind of a different subject.
IMO Earn a Buck was great for Wisconsin. It forces hunters (especially rifle hunters) to pass bucks that normally may be shot right away. We did struggle getting a doe often in early season and were forced to pass a few bucks; but in the long run I think it was better for the herd, and made us better hunters. We did see less does in future seasons, but the number of bucks was noticeably increased, along with a much better rut. Even though it's no longer EAB we still try to shoot a doe before we shoot a buck. Personally, I think Antler Point Restrictions is a better tool... But that is a whole other can of worms.
Indiana does not have a program like EAB in place, but I wish they did. Like rtaylor said, it too amazes me at how people will shoot small 1.5 and 2.5 year olds all day long, but will not shoot does. I hear and see it happen way too often. Shooting does to me is still a rush. It is great practice for when that slammer walks by and you get some great eats from it. The first doe that comes by this fall without a fawn is already on my hitlist. I think here in Indiana you would see a much better buck to doe ratio and the quality of the bucks would be much better if EAB was put in place. I'm for it all the way. This coming fall will be my third whitetail season and I understand the importance of letting the young bucks walk and taking does off the property. To me it is common sense. I read lots and lots of information on this site and others that support it. I guess my end goal is to not only hunt and pursue the deer, but to also understand them and learn their tendencies. You cannot learn big buck movement if you don't grant them the ability to become big when they are 1.5 year olds and walking broadside at 15 yards. This is my take and I still consider myself a new hunter. I like a challenge.
I'm all for it, I asked the questions because I haven't experienced it and wonder what the downside is. I know there will be some that will come unglued when they realize that it has been implemented, I think it was rolled out pretty quietly.
It does have negatives... we had to pass a pretty good buck a few years back, but in the long run I am all for it! Even better that it's for Rifle only!
I agree with you 100% Eric. The only stipulation is to leave bow season alone. Typically your bow hunters have more of an understanding and will let the little ones walk.
