Age only. Managing by points gets most of your genetically superior bucks killed early in their lifespan and long before they have an opportunity to reach maturity and really show what kind of rack they are capable of producing as well as limiting their ability to pass on those superior high point count, genes. Also, having a point requirement normally limits/prohibits you from taking out older aged bucks with inferior racks that really need to go. 4 1/2 is a good rule of thumb as far as rack development because most bucks are at 80-90% at that age, but in AL, with the season length, out of whack sex ratio, rut stress, pressure, poaching and night hunting, and an overall lack of trigger restraint among the legal hunters, I've talked to a bunch of guys that are now backing off the 4.5 rule and going to 3.5's. They're getting tired of passing a pile of 115-135" or better 3 yr olds only to never see them again in older age classes. Managing for bucks in AL is a very frustrating endeavor and unless you control 5000 plus acres or hunt in a fence, your neighbors will have more of an impact on your management goals than you do. Most of Alabama simply will not pass a 90-100" 6 or 8 point, regardless of his age.
Last edited by abolt300; 05/28/24 04:35 PM.
