3 Reasons to Shoot CULL Bucks

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

BTW, I should have added that a lot of spike bucks were just late born fawns that will eventually catch up. Also, many goofy 1-sided bucks were just injured on the opposite side of their body the year before and their antlers will correct themselves the following year. Dang, I always seem to miss something! 🙂 I apologise for that...

[@outdoorfamilytraditions9352]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions thank God you have a video to explain this to people. My father always said the same thing what your saying as far back as I can remember and everyone else would disagree. Another great video. 👍🏻

[@andrewharris9302]

Besides my uncles advice I take yours the most on hunting. Thanks for the great videos.

[@danialsauter9638]

Saw a nice looking spike this year. The spikes were perfectly shaped and healthy like a nice young 8 point but there just wasn't any tines growing upward. It was weird but looked pretty cool.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@danialsauter9638 Daniel that is pretty cool...hope you can identify him for next year so you can figure out how much he grew!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@andrewharris9302 thank you very much, that really means a lot to me! Really hope the info helps!

[@jamescoombs3880]

Another great video! I'm 3 years new to deer hunting and learning to manage a 20 ac parcel. I had been told to cull out the spikes due to genetics, but glad I didn't get the chance. Now I get the chance to watch the "fork" and spike grow into maturity. Your videos help make me a better Hunter and land manager. Thanks!

[@58BowNut]

Another great video! My son’s own a taxidermy business and I see young hunters bring in young bucks to get mounted and I honestly have to say they are the happiest proudest folks that come in. We’ve got so caught up in what is considered a trophy that I believe a lot of us have sort of lost some of the things that hunting is all about!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks and man so true Glenn, those are such great observations! That would be awesome to see too...Al of the young hunters so proud. So dang cool!

[@MrHarleym]

Money and TV has caused this big buck mentality. Just another craze to make a buck off of. I hunt because I was raised hunting. I continue to hunt because I enjoy being out in the woods and away from life. Venison makes 2 to 3 meals a week at my table. Great video with some very important info. Life is short, eat your dessert first

[@anton1483]

Thanks again Jeff for another "down to Earth - No B.S." video. Seriously appreciate your time, knowledge and experience on this subject.

[@jusnuts1443]

I don't hunt for racks. I hunt for meat. I usually leave bucks alone. Does, on the other hand, well... If she big and healthy, she's freezer bound!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Nothing wrong with that!

[@jusnuts1443]

That extra meat, which is healthy and delicious, really helps out when my 16 yr. old son is eating my wife and I out of house and home! @@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751

[@supermoon1430]

Probably should get you son I check

[@henryjw15]

Jus' Nuts the doe to buck ratio in my county is outrageous , I've been hunting my fathers property since I was in 6th grade, I'm 23 know an this past season I've shot my first mature buck.

[@jusnuts1443]

Uhh, wha' who, man?? I ain't pickin' up what yer puttin' down! Lay off the Mad Dog! Been there, done that! @@supermoon1430

[@wolfpack4128]

I rolled my eyes when I saw the title but thought let's see what this person is pushing. Glad to see you base your decisions off biology and not "tribal knowledge". You cannot control genetics without a high fence. Good video!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it! Cat stand tribal knowledge 😉

[@adamhiday9822]

Couldn't agree more! Grew up hunting my parents farm (southern MI) where 130-140 bucks are expected at 4 yrs or older, but not many in that age class. My brother bought 100 acres 2 miles away, 5 yr old bucks were all over the property with multiple bucks well over 150, even at 3-4 yrs old. As always, great info and fantastic videos.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

That sounds like an outstanding chunk of ground Adam! Very cool. And thank you very much...you are very welcome!

[@mr.skeptical3071]

Spikes can turn out to be nice, unfortunately people keep thinking that once a spike always a spike!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

It's a real shame too...but man you are so right! I say if hunters want to shoot a spike then that is no problem....however, to say that they are culling that buck because he is inferior is either an excuse to shoot the spike...or they have been misinformed.

[@danah7646]

we had a 3 pointer for 2 years, finally got up to a 5 pointer. I shot him, he is an offspring of bad genetics, down generations because down a couple generations there was a giant buck with similar genes but the antlers on all generations started to intertwine and from top of rack to nose only gets 18 inches

[@ericfloyd9842]

At least you acknowledge that hunting is different things to different people. A fellow hunter should not be ridiculed by the hunting community for ANY deer he takes as long as it is a legal deer.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

For sure Eric! Hunters just need to be educated too...I believe they have a responsibility to educate themselves. For example s spike isn't always a spike, culling deer does not work in a free ranging herd, etc...I say tho, have fun and shoot what you want 😉 However, educate yourself first, on what true impact you have when you pull the trigger...

[@anthonythorp7291]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 I have to agree. A little education can improve your hunting. I've tried to educate my neighbors and relatives but they don't care. Some its tradition, some a buck is bragging rights regardless of antler size, and some its food. What they dont understand is you can have all three plus more. They only see the "education" as someone telling them what to do. They have a messed up mentality here and see anything as them being called stupid. Lived here 30 years and still can't understand them.

[@xwig16]

I agree also if it is legal, no one should give you grief over it but it is infuriating to me when 4 guys hunt a 100 acre parcel and take 12 deer off the place then they whine and complain the next year because there aren't any deer. I think the purpose of these videos is to educate land owners/hunters how to increase the potential of their property for sustained future hunting.

[@ericfloyd9842]

@@xwig16 agreed. And for the record, I haven't shot a 1.5 year old deer in years. In fact, i cant even recall the last one. But I remember the time when ANY buck made me proud and we need to give young hunters a chance to cut their teeth and grow at a comfortable pace. Good comment.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@xwig16 thanks Chris and they sure are! Most have very little experience or knowledge or what their potential actually is. I try to teach that potential and I hope the videos hit home for most hunters.

[@BrentonPeterson1]

I almost didn't watch this video based on the title not seeing who posted it. But im glad i did. This needs to become common knowledge throughout the industry. And kudos to the last part quit shaming people for shooting the deer that they can and enjoy. We're all in this hunting comunity together and need to support eachother.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Great comments Brenton and thank you. To me, a very important message and I hope over time many hunters have the opportunity to view it. Appreciate it!

[@jared7497]

This was a very informative video. Growing up I was always told by my uncles and grandpa and the old school hunters to take the bucks where it may be messed up on one side they always referred ton them as “cull” bucks. Weather they were young or not To this day I still practiced that. Until now. This video helped a lot and made HUGE sense! Thank you !

[@JamesThomas-vz4of]

I dont shoot spikes, but I never thought of the points you provided. Have a few older deer with smaller racks on cam, figured they would never grow. But I'm going to keep an eye out just to see what happens. Just started watching you about a month ago, but I've learned a ton! Thanks for you time!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

James you are very welcome welcome and thank you! I just love seeing those older bucks. We have a few I have seen in recent years...4-5 year old inferior bucks. Basic 8s, not to spectacular. I think what goes on a lot around here is high grading. Hunters shoot the spectacular 10s and 12s or bucks with junk at a young age, and then the basic bucks get to grow older. I will take an old 8 over a great 2-3 year old any day. I really appreciate your feedback and I will try to keep them coming! Really appreciate being able to hear that they help...

[@JamesThomas-vz4of]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 they help tremendously. I've hunted for quite some time and am still learning new things everyday. Love the feedback you give to comments also. I know you're a busy man, but you still take time for as many hunters as possible. Like they say, not all heroes wear capes lol. Keep up the great work!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@JamesThomas-vz4of thanks a lot for that James! Although I can not always, but I really do try to answer everyone's comments if possible.

[@kevinbeazy]

James Thomas I found his videos a few months ago. I’ve learned a lot here. Realistic information that any of us can use. 👍

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@kevinbeazy thanks again for your comments Kevin...really appreciate it and if the videos are t helping anyone they are useless. So, greatly appreciate the feedback and I have a LOT more coming in 2019...

[@seamusmclaughlin5916]

Most hunters don't know the good knowledge that you share. Excellent videos.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thank you so much...that means a lot to me!

[@seamusmclaughlin5916]

It means a lot to all of us who care about and respect the animal that we hunt. It is difficult to try and manage anything where I live and hunt because some people do not have the knowledge or intelligence to wait and observe and learn. Fill the freezer intellect. @@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751

[@LostWoodsman76]

I'm glad you mentioned genetics that have been present for ages. On my property we have killed or found dead five or six deer missing ONE brow tine. Not broken, just not there. Now that would torpedo a high score but it doesn't make the deer "inferior." (other than in our preferences). Good luck weeding it out. I think we need to start appreciating a set of antlers for what it is, a prize well earned--not just measurements. Great video.

[@southeasttosa]

One of your best videos , Thanks Jeff ! I have learned a lot from you !

[@baileywagner8122]

10000%. Well put. So many people need to see this and watch it through. Unfortunately though, people tend to make up their minds and refuse to admit their wrong.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

So true Bailey, I really appreciate that! It's hard to teach an old dog new tricks, lol. Thanks for the comments!

[@stevechapman3982]

Great video. My favorite of all of yours so far! Thanks for sharing your expertise with us.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thank you very much Steve, that really means a lot to me! And you are very welcome...

[@Scofari]

Jeff, what is your opinion on the forest that you are sitting in? I attended a QDMA event today with a segment on chainsawing, and they would say to go through there are cut most of those trees down to let sunlight into the ground so plants can grow up.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Ha, I wish it was as easy as that. It really depends on the location, depth of cover, hunter access, timber type and where that improvement lays within the overall intended line of deer movement on the land. So many factors...of which I teach in this channel 😉 For example this location is 30 yards from a hunter access that reaches 8 stand locations. The last thing you would want is to attract deer to that specific location. In total, no more than 10-20% of a parcel (little more with a large parcel...less with large) should be in actual highly defined bedding...

[@wisconsinwhitetail9744]

On one property where we hunt all the yearling bucks are pretty much all spikes and the other property we have permission on there are hardly any spikes, they are all forks, or small 6-8 pointers. Do you think this is genetics or the amount of nutrition and when the deer was born? What’s affecting it the most?

[@chireef3125]

Wisconsin Whitetail could be diet

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

That is mostly nutrition. Probably sandier soil...more red oaks...less diversity of habitat. Not sure of the habitat of course, but it usually falls back to the that...

[@chireef3125]

We have very sandy soil so now planting buck wheat , fruit trees an chestnut trees an clover on all logging roads

[@jeffamckee]

Great video Jeff! Here in Michigan, we hear the word "cull" buck all of the time. The fact is that the word "cull" is being used as an excuse to shoot young bucks. Last year we had a buck that we recognize by a large scar on the top of his back. Last year he was a 110 inch 2 year old with a completely messed up goofy right side. The neighbors wanted him culled so he wouldn't breed. He made it. This year he was a 140 inch cemeterial typical 3 year old 10 point. He made it again! My friend raises deer. He had a 1 year old scrubby 3 point that everyone thought wouldn't amount to anything. 2 years later at 3 years old we was a beautiful typical 185 inch 12 point. You will never know the potential that a buck has unless you let them get some age.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Oh for sure...great points Jeff! Very food examples and actually common in just about any whitetail herd.

[@chrishenicke2052]

And feed them

[@idahomike100]

Can these spikes and bucks with a dagger horn,do damage/injure more bucks while fighting during the rut?

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

No...most get their butts whipped because they are yearlings...if anything they don't fight. They run...

[@dennisb1224]

Late born fawns from the second rut are often spikes too.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Most definitely...good points!

[@tayajossart8427]

So can you answer this question... if I'm 12 years old and I havent shot my first buck yet but I've shot does, should I shoot a spike or wait? Please I'm desperate

[@FurrReal56]

I see nothing wrong with shooting a spike for your first. Gives you room to improve. If you want to shoot something bigger or your first that’s fine too. Just my opinion.

[@rickparshall]

I let a yearling 6 walk by me several times in early bow(granted I thought he was a 4pt till I got him in binoculars...😂) now, a couple days left of regular gun season and no tags filled... have not seen any deer since opening gun day when my Savage Axis misfired (Remington core-lokt 🙄) on a 10point 🦌... have not seen a doe since second week of early bow.... state land sucks, I would be overjoyed to have a button buck in range now... ugh frustrated in Western NY..

[@JesusSavedMyLifee]

Great video. I clicked to see what you were thinking and I’m glad you baited in people who don’t know this information with title.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks a lot Nick...I think it is a very important message!

[@dennisb1224]

Does can reach higher for browse than button bucks. If there are too many does, the winter is tough on fawns causing more spikes. Good video.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good points...thanks a lot! In the UP of MI, 50% of all fawns are lost in an average Winter...up to 90% in extreme Winters.

[@teenelomz9402]

I do have a question, what's the deal with the buck with the droopy right antler? I have 2 spikes by my this year very similar, and a neighbor shot one like that last year. Is that a genetic mutation, or are those caused by injury? About 25 years ago we had a 2 1/2 year old 8 point where his right side was like that.

[@nospam1583]

That's a dumb notion..Where I live in north western Pa. , I have been watching the local deer herd around my property for more than 20 years..They are in my yard everyday and I have watched hundreds of fawns grow into mature bucks.. They always grow spikes in their first year, forks that sometimes can have as many as 8 small points their second year, then they can usually become small frame shooters that are 8 points and up in their third year..The best blooms happen at 4 thru 6 years if they live that long..The 8 point that I got with the bow this year was 4 1/2 years..I know this because he had been living around my house since he was a fawn..And yes he was once a spike..

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Yep...that's exactly what the video said 😉 good points!

[@jeremiahgandy4124]

I agree with what you say, I’ll add another bit of information. I’ve talked with high fence property owners who tracked bucks every year. One in particular was an 8 point after 2 years, 8 point at 3 years, but blew up into a massive 16point at 4 years. The ranch thinking it was going to continue to grow and since it was only 4 years old, passed it up.... crazy thing is.... from 5-7 years it went back to a 8 point and was never bigger than that again. Every year food and minerals can change drastically(especially on public land) due to drought, fires, etc. so you just never know when a buck is going to bloom.... What I do have an issue with, is when game and fish dictates what size buck I can shoot. I hunt Missouri and Arkansas and it’s either a 3 or 4 point rule(on one side mind you). So, someone like myself who doesn’t get the opportunity to hunt for months every year and who has only access to public land can’t even decide if I want to shoot a spike or fork horn..... Which might be the only deer I see that year in my limited time( which has happen a lot!).

[@Bowhunter1300]

Jeremiah Gandy, we’ve had the same antler point restrictions where I hunt in MI for several years, at least 3 pts on one side. I’m actually quite happy with the law, if I want meat I shoot a doe and we’ve been seeing larger bucks much more frequently than we used to. I can completely understand the frustration with some govt. agency telling you what size of buck you can shoot, I don’t like being told what I can and cannot do either. The issue we had before in our VERY crowded Michigan woods was that if a deer had any antlers at all, it was going to be shot. Very much a “If I don’t shoot it the next guy will” attitude. At least now we have a more balanced deer herd with a broader age class of bucks and we all have a greater chance of shooting a nice one.

[@weavedanify]

I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on antler restrictions on public land. My observations have been that it leads to more spikes, baskets, and odd racks than without the restrictions. For example, a 12 in spike was hit by a car in southern PA near my house. I was glad to hear you say more time would mature bucks like that- but I’m interested in your thoughts in antlers restrictions and gene pools

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

I am a HUGE fan on ARs on public land and if done correctly (70-80%protectioknrate for yearling bucks), then there is no risk of high grading. The ARs are the only reason I wouldn't back to hunt PA this year. It was incredible how they changed PA for the good. I hunted PA from 93-2010...missed it greatly! I hope they never go back...

[@weavedanify]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions thank you for taking the time to respond!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@weavedanify you are very welcome Dan, I truly hope that it helps!

[@laro802]

Vermont has had a "No Spike" rule for about the last 5-8 years and it seems to be working in producing bigger bucks. Always assumed a spike horn was a yearling, but maybe it is different in areas with larger populations of deer. Thanks for the info Jeff.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Man you are very welcome! And thanks a lot for the feedback...that is great to hear your experiences. I know that a no spike rule in Vermont protects a high % of yearling bucks!

[@hikaru9624]

So spikes as you call them are like spikers (red deer)?

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

"spikers", that's a new one to me...maybe the same? Spikes are most often between 1 and 2 years old....which is the yearling age category.

[@hikaru9624]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 spikers are indeed usually 1 to 2 years old so that does make them yearlings. Usually young red deer start to get more points on their antlers during their second year. As far as I'm aware, only reds get called spikers but most folk would probably know what you mean if you called a young sika stag a spiker.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@hikaru9624 that makes a lot of sense. We have a lot of regions where spike bucks make up approximately 50% of the yearling age class. Actually lots of areas. Thanks for the comments!

[@hikaru9624]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions 50% are youngin's eh? Personally I'd be asking where's the mature stags if I knew that was going on in whatever area I was in. But we all know you can go for days without seeing one single beast so I'd probably just come to the conclusion that there isn't any near me in this situation. One I do know is this, deer management isn't as easy as folk say it is! No problem :)

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@hikaru9624 in a lot of the areas, 50% of the yearling bucks, are spikes. Hope that makes sense! Thanks again for the comments!

[@chrishenicke2052]

It is also true that what you consider a trophy I may not. The reason hunters started managing deer is so they didn’t have to wait for a sure enough good buck to show up maybe once every 5 to 10 yrs. A lot of the hunts you watch on TV are on managed properties where the bucks with desirable traits are allowed to live and then grow to a mature age.

[@beavercreekoutdoors2869]

We cant shoot spikes here in our zone,buck has to have atleast 3pts on 1 side. This has helped out alot here. Now what about a 3.5 6pt? Chances he will always b a 6pt?

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Great point Adam! In some places a no spike rule protects more than 50% of all year long bucks. And you are right...so often that is true with a 3 year old 6 point. Although...I've seen deer add a lot of junk when older, at age 5/6. One clean 8 we hunted added a 12" droptine with a 5" kicker off the droptine!

[@beavercreekoutdoors2869]

We definitely see better deer with the no spike rule

[@joegonzalez5602]

Whitetail habitat I have a 3.5 year old spike should I shoot him or give him another year?

[@chrishenicke2052]

The term culling I think derived from big pieces of property under extensive deer management. I have worked in the hunting and deer ranching business and have seen thousands of deer harvested. Supplemental feeding has changed deer densities on properties and therefore lots of deer need to be harvested to achieve the desired numbers and quality of the animals. You are right, females need to be harvested just like males. In a “deer management program” you are always trying to freshen up your herd genetic pool. It’s like having a cattle herd, you are always trying to get rid of the older less desirable animals. I have seen ranches that cull bucks in the 170’s and 180’s because they are looking for certain traits. When supplement feed is introduced deer are healthier, raise more fawns and have better antlers normally. Then it comes down to density problems. I would say the only way to try and do your part on small tracks of land is to try and feed them good and try to keep densities at a healthy number. With marginal food supply for deer, hunters will see a good number of spike bucks. I have never personally seen a spike older than 1.5 yrs old. I have also seen 1.5 yr old bucks with 10 pts or more. If you are culling at a higher level then you would shoot that spike vs the 10 pt at that same age. It’s is also true that late born buck fawns will likely end up as a spike. I have seen many hunters shoot a spike and it be a 6 month old buck fawn with 4 inch spikes. What a tragedy, that was dang amazing for a fawn to grow 4 inch spikes.... Hunters also want to try and cull bucks that are at a more mature breeding age before shooting a spike. When you get your older bucks where you want them then you can start looking yr by yr at what you got. It takes a age classes of deer to analyze who is a cull and who ain’t as well. For instance, how many different age bucks are you seeing? Ok, sorry I have rambled on. Thanks for the video! ✌️

[@g.k.dalton4530]

Thank you Jeff.!! It took me a few years to convince a few of my friends to stop shooting spikes and smaller bucks for this very reason.. the past few years have really started to show also.. during the rut I’ve seen 14+ different bucks under 4 1/2 - 3 1/2 years old and in late season I cannot tell how many different spikes..I have one picture with 4 in one frame.. I will not cull any buck unless it’s badly injured or like you said ..a bully.. thanks again Jeff.!! 👍🏻

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

That's great to hear GK and I really appreciate all of the feedback...really good experiences! And you are very welcome!

[@barronhunting]

What if you feel like you have more bucks than does- could that be a good reason to cull some bucks as well?

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Oh no absolutely not....there are very, very few daylight buck hotspots. Pretty cool to have one if those, in my experience there can never be too many bucks...

[@danplanck4058]

Good vid Jeff! I got some neighbors that say they dont shoot anything unless its a 8pt but every year they shoot some spikes because they needed to be culled lol.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks Dan and man, that is so common! Maybe you can show them this video? Lol Really kind if sad if they are doing it because they think they are actually helping the herd. Hopefully the video helps some hunters...

[@danplanck4058]

I think they just want to shoot something personly

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@danplanck4058 me too Dan 😉 it sounds so silly when hunters say they had to cull them...

[@anthonythorp7291]

@@danplanck4058 that's what my cousin does. He hunts trophies but at seasons end he'll shot any buck just to say he got his buck.

[@jasonbutler6679]

It would be a greater question to ask if selenium deficiencies or other minerals are the real problem. It’s like you also mention what is the purpose of harvesting a spike. If you intend to harvest or manage for trophies, spikes are a great idea in which to start the manage program you will take a few years to rid of a good portion of the genetics. The other issue to say it is okay to leave some of the inferior genetics is as mentioned you leave the option for them to dominate genetics by becoming a “bully buck”. The continued reference of it might be a cull buck somewhere else or it will still be a..... offers the validation of why to cull these bucks. Yes, at first especially in areas where genetics are poor there maybe a lot of culling. I believe the most essential piece that needed to be discussed was not. The need to take nutrient / mineral analysis of soils and realize what those minerals / nutrients affects are on the animals. One of these is selenium, if there is deficiency ruminants might be aborting, not conceiving, deer will demonstrate spike formations in early antler growth. It seems the function of this video was to argue there needs to be more deer.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Unfortunately deer are what they eat...which is why there are huge areas with a high % of spikes in the yearling age class. That and weather related stressors. Adding minerals or high quality food sources can help a little, but that only Rosenthal a small portion of their very diverse diet. In some areas they just don't put a lot of growth into their antlers until they reach their full skelotal potential St the she of 4....of course a significant change every year, but then quite a bit if s change reflected after 4. The bottom line in the majority of the whitetail world's patchwork of habitat, hunters and cover...really no need to ever worry or even think about culling in a free ranging herd.

[@jasonbutler6679]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions your comment is understandable. In no disregard there needs to be the understanding that nutrients play almost or as much influence as genetics. There is no need to discuss cull if you do not cull. There is also no need to cull if you do not understand 5e issue of the poor quality. While taking some vet science / animal science classes from a gentleman out of Montana we discussed this issue through cattle, a keep cull scenario. He noticed that he would soon need to sell his ranch as would several others in the area if they could not get higher conception and decrease aborting calves. It was not until a friend of his who was a wildlife biologist went a drove the ranches did they see an indicator. The biologist quickly caught on there was a lot of spikes on the properties. He was able to go back and draw blood from the soon to be calving cows and found deficiencies in minerals. Through simply placing selenium salt blocks and mineral licks throughout the ranches they quickly noticed the conception in cattle went up, aborting calves went down to nothing and the spike antlered deer drastically decreased. I’m just saying in 5he issue of management and culling this is a large issue 5at would need resolve to properly manage. The issue of which to cull still has 5e issue of which to harvest and to simply say they might be...... is not a sufficient answer in breeding terms. I would look at the beautiful example of the super cow documentary where they only allow 1% of the cattle to breed to drastically improve the breed. In deer would that be worth while? No. But to argue harvesting for a breeding program in selecting inferior genetics as well genetics that are superior but have now become aged is also a great tool, this would be a topic of trophy hunting. I’m sure we agree on the same topics but the letting the little ones survive because they may be....

[@pensnut08]

This snapped me back to reality! And gives me hope. I got TONS of pix of small racked bucks.. Finally the last day (in one area) I got a pic of a REALLY nice one. Which I am sure was being chased by mutts because I saw/heard them on the other side where I was. Anyway, I was considering using this as a "doe" place (bow muzzleloader) because they need thinning, but I'll continue to run my cameras year round and up my scouting. They're there, I'll find them. Great video and LOVE the new book.. Jerry

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks a lot Jerry ..great to hear about the book! So often those small antlered bucks are just young....very young. Great to hear you saw a big one...kind of puts it all in perspective! Very cool...

[@williamkolesar2790]

I thought the 1.5 year old bucks were chased from the area by the does anyway. So you would really be shooting the bucks that would mature elsewhere. I don't shoot yearling bucks anyway and would take a doe instead but would it really hurt your mature deer when they likely come from a different area.

[@errolm8313]

I just learned something here. I've always thought spikes were just young immature bucks and that all bucks start out that way....thanks!

[@seanchandler6729]

they should always do that

[@Chalz108]

I have seen a couple very very small 6 and 8 points in the same age class as spike bucks but it's extremely rare where I live. I always see spikes.

[@sidsnyder7023]

What are your thoughts on public land antler restrictions? I live and hunt in a high-pressure state and can only hunt public land. While I believe it’s definitely helped save the buck population, I can’t really say the rack “quality” has increased any since implementation (at least where I hunt. Hard to speak for somewhere else.) Any suggestions on how to make the most of hunting public land and taking a mature buck in that scenario?

[@kieffergonzalez1311]

0:59 Elliot: "I'm a unihorn! Don't look at me! Don't look at me! I'm hideous! I'm a monster!" 🦌

[@fermiticus4034]

That odd-ball spike in the beginning...I shot one, almost identical, a few years back. His right antler was a bit more "droopy" though. He had that same big lump at the base of the antler. Anybody have any idea if there is an actual cause for that? Or, is it just a case of... "odd-ball"?

[@fightinggator4398]

I've seen them like that and their scull is broken and just the skin is holding it on. Maybe hit by a car IDK. The lump is the scull plate pushing the hide out

[@myronlaidler8034]

Jeff ,i started deer hunting in Michigan when i was 17 years old, at that time 1 buck was the limit for the season bow or gun. Culling deer was unheard of at that time.Hunter success was 20 % we were all meat hunters ,antler size did not matter many hunters my self included were happy to get ANY buck .Snob hunters have made antler size their most important aspect for killing a buck while forgetting the reason we are given the right to hunt is controlling wild life populations!!

[@Bowhunter1300]

Like you, I grew up hunting in Michigan. My first buck was a small 3 point and I was as extremely happy with it. I certainly wouldn’t consider myself a “snob hunter” or antler fiend. Most years I shoot does to fill the freezer, last year I shot a little 5 point and that was my first buck in 9 years. That said, I’m actually quite happy with the APR’s where I hunt. We’ve been seeing larger bucks much more frequently than we used to, which indicates that the deer herd is more balanced and healthy, with a broader range of buck age class. Before the APR’s it seemed like the attitude was “if I don’t shoot that buck the next guy will”, so any buck that had little stubs on it’s head got a bullet or arrow. I never liked that. I like the fact that the bucks have a chance to grow a little bit and we all have a greater chance to bag a nice one. Also, research shows that shooting any young buck with legal antlers, which is pretty much the way it was before the APR’s, is not a smart way to manage a healthy deer herd. I’d suggest reading Dr. John Ozoga’s books, he offers a wealth of information. Take care and happy hunting.

[@myronlaidler8034]

@@Bowhunter1300 Your remarks are right on! With being able to harvest 5 antlerless and a season in my county that starts oct 1st and ends jan 31st there is ample opportunity to put meat in your freezer.I would like to see APR implemented state wide.I hunt private property and see and harvest good bucks every year providing the adjacent property hunters don't kill them when they are 2 1/2 years old . Some are really nice but have'nt reached the potential that age brings.( LET EM GO LET EM GROW!!! ) I'm familiar with Johns research at Cusino and his excellent articles on all things Deer!! This is my 56th year of deer hunting i've seen a lot regulation changes,some good some bad, but the deer are still the same, Happy Hunting !!!

[@ForgottenHillbilly]

When it comes to genes people seem to forget that does also carry both good and bad genes for producing a trophy. That being said kill all the ''cull'' bucks you want to but you will never knock those genes out completely but may just increase chances for better bucks to do most of the breeding. Also a trash deer to one man is another man's trophy. I'm all for killing a big deer but i'm middle aged and have a lot of deer under my belt. I used to kill a lot of smaller bucks but still was very happy and we still at venison at my house so i'd never knock a man for killing a smaller buck. I do wish more people would have trigger finger discipline but to each their own and i'm just happy to see folks enjoy the time in the woods. This trophy thing has sort of gotten out of hand and there comes a point it takes the enjoyment out of hunting. To each his own and happy and safe hunting!

[@ammoharris7087]

I like having Spike bucks walk past my stand, they're fun to watch and it helps the big boys come past you, because they feel more comfortable once a little ones go first.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Great points ammo! I also like seeing the little guys around...shoot I just like watching deer in general 😉

[@LMM42424]

Any chance I can send you a picture of the buck my son in law got yesterday?

[@GraveyarDiscipl]

What about bucks in an area that genetically only grow one main beam and just a stub on the other side? I saw a six point like that on camera early this season and shot what amounted to be a three point yesterday. He had a one inch or so stub on the right and a beam with two points on the left. And no, it didn't come close to looking like it had been broke off.

[@tuckerb1776]

My cousin always shots any deer that comes out, he says if it is Brown it’s down, and I always tell him to let’s the small deer grow big and mature. He never listens, now our privet hunting land has a small amount of bucks and lots of small does. Can i have some advice how to brings some big deer back in southeastern Massachusetts

[@williammatthews2948]

What's your opinion on enclosed, (high fence), ranches that manage deer herds with supplements and such, for high dollar hunts, where the bucks have incredibly gnarly and uncomfortable looking racks, racks that look like tree branches that were caught up in a fence during a flood? Personally, I think it's wrong, but I'm no expert. Thanks. Take care.

[@darkapothecary4116]

Bad for the deers health, unhealthy deer unhealthy meat

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

They turn out some crazy deer! Mostly with great nutrition tho and that's about it. Not my thing but to each his own...

[@garretthuddleston2341]

You can't remove the gene pull completely but you can cut it down by culling

[@stevestarkey6183]

absolutely right jeff.old wives tail.where I live in north central wv spikes are about half of the buck population.we dont have very many mature deer here at all.i let them all go every year and every yr they turn into young 8 pointers next season.let em go let em grow is best I believe.i think if you keep putting out minerals,food,and water year after year eventually you will improve genetics in your area

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks a lot Steve...really good feedback! I agree too...the older the better, regardless of what they look like to begin with.

[@capt.shaffer8655]

soo let spikes go? or let 2.5 yr old 8 pts go? shoot forkhorns? which buck should be shot to be beneficial to the herd?

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

You can never change genetics. So if a hunter is shooting any "cull" buck because they think it will help a free ranging herd ..they have been duped. I say shoot whatever you want and don't make excuses. Enjoy the hunt!

[@ubuntunewb]

I dislike the notion of culling due to not enough points, but to each land manager their own practices... I do have a question though, we have a 4.5 yo buck (I call him Tumor) that is roaming around with a large growth on his abdomen, but my Wife's uncle (land owner) likes to listen to GW and GW said to leave it alone. I don't think the growth is ever going to go away, considering he's had it two years now. What are your thoughts?

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Those growths are somewhat common and I would definitely treat him like any other buck. ARs work extremely well on statewide or regional applications...great for ill informed hunting parties on private lands where a base AR can be used as a great starting point! But for sure...culling in general by points to me is never a great idea...culling meaning culling bucks from the here because they are "inferior"

[@MySliceOfHeavenoutdoors]

Great info Jeff, thanks for taking the time to share the info

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks a lot and you are very welcome! I have 7 more videos to publish over the next several days and I hope that you like them!

[@MySliceOfHeavenoutdoors]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 I am sure I will Jeff. I find your info very useful, interesting and I learn a lot.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@MySliceOfHeavenoutdoors very cool...hoping to shoot even more vids in 2019, and if they aren't helping anyone there would certainly be no point. So I really appreciate it!

[@davidlotti5407]

Good video!most bucks shot are around 18 months old most antler potential is there yet I've shot bucks in all age classes from antler trophies to freezer buck ! Hunting pressure an predation and winter survival pretty much determine the number bucks in the herd . It takes 3,4,5,6 year old buck to reach that 130 and beyond class of trophy. But any whitetail is a trophy whether a wall hanger or one for the freezer they are truly one of greatest animals to hunt!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good points David!

[@joshmarlett7699]

Hunt for meat not the rack

[@cole1178]

While agreed the rack is often a good indicator for the age or maturity of the buck

[@philgorski1418]

I pass on a lot of spikes and even forkers and small eights but over here in my part of Marathon county there is too many people that are meat hunters. If they would let them small bucks go we could have some booners. We have great genetics over here but they don’t get to reach that prime age.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

At least you are trying! What I try to do in any area is to know what the best bucks are...and go after them regardless of age. Of course my targets then change drastically from public land to private land from state to state. I hope some of those meat hunters can realise that if they are shooting bucks to "cull" them, they aren't really doing any good...more of an excuse to shoot. O say if you want to shoot a young buck...just own it and enjoy it.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@John Dunbar sounds like you are a man of great experience...

[@MrSilverado1982]

I am a meat hunter you cant eat the horns. Way too many trophy hunters that shoot just for sport and have to have the biggest rack and some of the idiots shoot and cut the head off and let the rest rot that makes me sick. If i get a big rack fine but as long as i shoot a legal buck in my area im happy i have meat in the freezer!

[@christopherwinter2099]

@@MrSilverado1982 me as well but I would still keep the antlers for possession. I would still eat the meat.

[@MrSilverado1982]

@@christopherwinter2099 im not saying not to keep the antlers. I enjoy them as much as the next guy im just saying im not out for the antlers im out for meat and if i get a big buck yea i would do some type of mount to remember it, but again the meat is to delicious to not eat it 😀

[@Needagoodnamebutcantthinkofone]

Great video! Though I do not cull bucks since we don't have enough deer on or passing through our property to do so. That being said boy it's good to be back watching your videos after all the crap that's been going on in my life, thanks for being my perfect distraction from the ex-wifes deal and thank you most of all for giving me a lot of really good info to use for my last two full days of hunting here in northeastern PA!! Thank you again Mr. Jeff Sturgis, keep up the AMAZING WORK, IT IS TRULY VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!!!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

That means a whole lot to me...you have no idea! But most of all sounds like some solid hunting therapy is in good order and I can fully appreciate that! Stay positive my hunting brother...I truly mean that and I hope that things work out for the best soon. They always do...

[@traceymatula5512]

Great video thanks I’ve always had this way of thinking but in my area, we are allowed one buck of 13” or wider and one unbranched buck. I personally have one unbranched buck on our farm and this has made me think I’m just gonna let him grow he’s probably only a year or two old and I would like to see what he becomes

[@bigdoghuntingclub1227]

I shot a cow horn this year on mistake but I did the right thing and taged it but some ppl shoot them because like u said they think they will stay a spike and they let them lay that really makes me mad or shooting any deer and letting it lay I found 4 deer 2 big bucks dropped in Thier tracks and the guy left it lay

[@mormegilthurin5421]

We run several cameras on our property we've got a good idea what's out there. Always let them little fellas walk there fun to watch I'll see the same Fork horns and sixes and Eights I call them basket racks over and over throughout the season makes for some good hunting

[@davidlotti5407]

To JT noted your comments the point I was making is that the anti hunting crowd can use trophy hunting to argue their case to shut down hunting . Any whitetail is a trophy no matter size or sex it's all up to the individual hunter on what they decide to take . I've hunted whitetails for 57 years and have taken over 70 bucks in that time to me they are all trophies an thru all age classes! Whitetails a no doubt one of the greatest animals to hunt! Hunting pressure , predation and weather have great influence on deer herds. Bucks making it to breeding maturity have to survive a lot.the largest age group of bucks harvested is 18 months which puts them in the spike ,fork horn , small 6 pointer or basket 8 class for a buck to make it 4,5,6 years and 130 class or better a lot of factors are in play for this to happen.

[@masonk.wilson538]

Our neighbor has a cull that lives on his property. I jokingly named him Eliot (off of open season) because he only grows one antler, the 2nd antler always stays a spike. but the thing is he always disappears during hunting season and reappears after. It's pretty worrying cause that means his genetics are possibly being passed on. It's not an injury, he's been around a few years. Never fails, one antler barely grows.

[@user-dn6qy1ou1f]

It could have a scull injury. Preventing it from properly growing on that side

[@truth6851]

so I have heard the term cow horned Spike used a lot, A big deer with very thick and rather long spikes. Will these deer ever be anything other than a spike ?? the argument I have heard is they will not, but I really don't know if that's an excuse to shoot a buck you should have let walk.

[@noeldoebke9910]

In our area we have as far as I can tell, one very healthy genetic group that are typical. The spikers and forks all the way to 10 points are nice. But there is a herd that has one side spike and the other is fork or all together twisted or even gone 🤷‍♂️ my kids shot 3 of them in this years youth hunt. Two are 1 and a half year old and one was a big body with the same goofy 🙃 type of rack. Is this a mistake to let them keep doing that? Thank you for your show it’s helping us learn more.

[@christopherwinter2099]

I passed up one deer and it was a six point buck maybe eight it was hard to tell. Plus I hunt by a thick plot of Oak and Birch with a Field by it so I see lots of things. Stupid woodpecker last season I was in my stand and I heard a racket below me I couldn't tell what it was I did know if it was. A skunk, Wood pecker, or deer.

[@mark5650]

In Texas they are actually crafting the laws to encourage us to shoot a spike and not burn our only buck tag in that county for instance in what used to be a one buck county it is now a two buck county with at least having one unbranched antler and only one having an inside spread of 13 inches or greater. I am fine with antler restrictions it keeps people from shooting younger bucks and lets them get older but in my experience most spikes are just baby bucks that are on their first or possibly second rack however I have seen some really big spikes that appear to be 3 year old or more and I think those might need to go but because I an not willing to burn one of my tags I will let someone else shoot it for me. I am lucky enough to live in an area that is in a corner of 4 different counties and have a place to hunt in 3 sometimes all 4 of those counties so I have the potential to use all 3 of my buck tags on a trophy and I did just that in 2011. In 2011 I took a nice 9 point in Parker county and a few days later I took a big 10 pt in Erath County (we did not find him for almost a year but when we did his skull and antlers were intact!) I also took a huge 8 point on my ranch in Hood County it was the biggest deer I had ever shot so that is why I hate burning tags on so called cull bucks if a deer needs to be shot I will gladly let someone bring out a kid and let them take it and if they don't get it then no big deal. Hopefully by next season my oldest daughter who will be 10 will be ready to start hunting with me and as my rules dictate on my property she will be allowed to shoot anything legal since she has never killed a deer before (even a doe which is a HUGE no no on my land otherwise) and not only will I be the most proud daddy alive she will be one more huntress in the world and future NRA member helping in conservation of our improving whitetail habitat.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Interesting points Mark, thanks for sharing!

[@danbuell492]

You really know your stuff, thanks for another great video

[@RodneyArrow]

Couldn't agree more!! Great piece.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

That's great...and thank you very much!

[@robertlivingston1634]

My problem with the UPs quality deer manglement is the fact that we are practicing antler point restrictions instead of age class restrictions, so we are killing 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 year old 6s and 8s and leaving spikes to do the breading. We had a lot nicer deer when we only had 1 license per year, most people can't age a Buck just by looking at him especially if you hunt thick cover JMO.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

The great thing about the UP is that most 6s and 8s are 2 year old+. At least 50% of the yearling age class are spikes, so protecting 50% of a yearling age class is a great thing. In particular when a % of others in the same age class are not being shot. A 3 point on a side rule would be perfect in the UP...protects 82% of the entire yearling age class.

[@robertlivingston1634]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 30 years ago from what I've observed is there were far more 1 1/2 year old Buck's with 4 ,6 and even small 8 point racks and these deer have been eliminated from the herd. I watched 3 button Buck's last winter and the smaller one of the 3 had large pedistals, he actually out grew the other 2 this summer and had a nice even 6, the other 2 grew into morphadite 3 inch spikes . Guess which one disappeared during bow season? Our combo tags are taking out these young Buck's, and even the size of the older Buck's are getting smaller. Used to be a 3 1/2 year old would easily dress 185 now more like 160 so don't tell me what a wonderful thing we're doing.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

@@robertlivingston1634 I've just seen a lot different herd complexities from you...and have had the advantage of seeing it through the some of the most noted UP deer biologists ever. Also speaking around the up, scouting client lands and their trail cams, etc. It isn't as bad as you think...and btw, a 3.5 year old buck typically has been right around 160#s...2.5, 130-140, 4.5 170-200, 5.5 around 180-200+. Have spent many days scouting many deer herds in the UP with some input from some of the top deer minds in the country. Really...the herd is doing pretty damn good. Well...depending in the severity of the winter, lol.

[@rogerstevens6811]

There is also the rarer case of spike bucks getting older and not developing. My first buck was a HUGE spike buck, 4 1/2 years old with 10/11 inch spikes. That deer had to be got...

[@maggiesducks]

Thank you for this. Hopefully a lot of hunters see this and stop spreading misinformation. Spikes are just babies!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

You are so welcome and man I hope so! Why I made it...

[@meateaterwhitetail7291]

Your right Cull bucks will get big when mature..... If you're talking 150 gross and boone and Crockett. My 9 years practicing qdm... 1 out of 10 bucks will grow 150 inches to a boone and Crockett rack. Most bucks at 4 1/2 reach their antlers at 95%. 5 1/2 and older their racks reach at 100% or more... I had a buck that's 6 1/2 yrs old. massive 8pt probably in the 120 range and his racks still the same when he matured at 4 1/2. Not all mature bucks will grow into a huge tall wide antlerd deer.

[@VanillaGorilla117]

I like leaving all those little bucks and letting them grow. Started doing that on my property a few years ago and ever since I’ve been able to take bigger and bigger bucks year after year. And now instead of one or two bucks wandering around I have lots of bucks that are all up and coming with lots of good hunting in the future and lots of bucks to maintain a healthy diverse population.

[@petemoore8923]

The percentage of people that don’t understand or don’t want to understand deer is ungodly. I’m VERY fortunate to be able to hunt every day of the season if I want. You learn when to let them walk.

[@billkerr2060]

Age ...so true I had an small 8 at age 3 got his sheds from that year and the next year 19.1/2 inch spread the next not the biggest but so nice for me

[@casefranklin5054]

Why would you cull out spikes anyway because every buck starts out like a spike and becomes bigger

[@gramps5157]

I keep seeing some bucks every year that have one antler and the other antler is deformed at the base and it only grows an inch or two. I have shot at least 10 of them, yet every year another one or so shows up. So, I guess you're right, I can't eliminate a bad gene. Some real nice bodied deer that had to be at least 2.5 or 3.5 years old continue to grow this mutant antler, they don't seem to out grow it.

[@chrishenicke2052]

Gramps, Try to let one live, maybe one with a distinguishing mark where maybe you can recognize it the next yr. Just to see maybe if it will grow out of it. If it does let it go, if it don’t and is the same then ground check him!

[@yogibear6271]

I agree with some of the other comments here to me it's more about his young body size an shape then antler size or shape I believe they have to become fully mature to see there antler potential even if it's still got a screwed up rack at 5 1/2 or 6 1/2 more than likely it's going to be a big screwed up rack. and like you said Jeff it's more than likely from something else besides gens.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good points Yogi!

[@FG-qh7qx]

Google images of spikes from the Muey Grande in Freer TX. You'll see some pics of huge spikes that went unchecked for years.

[@wolfpack4128]

Also the reason does come into heat then run miles before bedding down with a buck is to get her scent in front of the best genetic buck in the area. In areas where all the bucks get shot at 1.5 years old or the buck to doe ratio is really out of whack then yes small bucks may breed does. In a more typical situation it's unlikely a big buck won't show up and kick the little buck out before the doe is ready to be bred.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Man, unfortunately there is no process of natural selection in deer. That actually a healthy thing, which helps them strengthen genetic diversity. Kind of an old myth. Here is a great article to check out! All lot more out there too that I read back in the 2000s, but they don't seem to pop up on Google too well at this point, lol Let me know what you think! www.qdma.com/will-dominant-bucks-dominate-breeding/

[@DiddyDoItOrNot]

Thank you I can't stand when people use the phrase "once a spike always a spike" I've been watching a buck on Texas public land since he was a spike he will be 5.5 next year if he makes it through the spring and summer months and he was a 4.5 9pt and around 130".

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Pretty cool to hear Samuel...and for you to experience! You are very welcome...I appreciate the comment!

[@nickterbrack136]

Glad you hit on the top reason, Venison in the freezer! There's lots of deer I'd pass on early season, that I wouldn't hesitate to shoot at the end of the season if I hadn't had much success.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

For sire Nick ..that's what it really should all boil down to!

[@mattwestendorf]

Beautiful video

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thank you matt!

[@JustJayC]

I am not arguing, but if this is true, please explain the law in Texas. 13 inches inside spread or any buck with at least one unbranched antler. Bucks are bigger now than they were 10 years ago.

[@timd972]

Totally agree. Deer are territorial so you can affect the genetics in a local area. We did it on our low fenced ranch in south texas... 600 acres. 3 things... good nutrition, shoot all the 1.5 + year old spikes you can (we don't see them much anymore), and pass on all nicer bucks under about 4.5 years old. We went from rarely seeing a buck over 100" to now seeing them almost every time we are in the blind. Herd is healthy and has not appeared to affect numbers. See more healthier deer now than before and lots of twins.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Great 13 inch rule!

[@pursuitjunkies8137]

We get 150 tags a year on our Texas Lease. To us it makes sense to Cull. We shoot spikes (not obvious yearlings) unbranched bucks, and bucks with no brows. This makes sense to us rather then just shooting any buck. We obviously harvest does too. In the 3 years we've been there we've seen the bucks grow from year to year. This certainly isn't only due to our buck culling system but I believe it is a factor in it. We have also been year round feeding them for the 3 years so that mixed with reduced heard pressure due to killing 150 deer a year has allowed our bucks to grow. In my opinion. We shot our biggest Texas buck to date this year! 145" hah South Texas low fence!

[@darkapothecary4116]

You get that many tags ? Damn we can hardly get 3 without having to buy more

[@pursuitjunkies8137]

@@darkapothecary4116 yes it is a 8600 acre low fence lease. its under a TPWS Managed Lands Deer Program

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good points...although completely different than almost every other whitetail hunter in the country. Very cool experience though!

[@TotallyL337]

My first deer (last year) was a 1.5yr buck. I was so proud of myself, but now I regret it and I might take his cap off of my wall. He had great "spikes" for a young deer. My second deer (this year) was a 2.5yr buck with MESSED UP antlers. His skull was malformed, and one of his antlers grew misshaped. It probably hurt him, based on the "crack" down the middle of it. Is THIS a culling buck? I'm proud of that archery kill but again, not sure if I want to mount his ugly cap!

[@johnkendall6962]

One strange thing we see here is bucks that have good spread and length with no G-1s rack starts at G-2. Some will have 4 points and no brow tine.

[@kevinbeazy]

john kendall We have that here in Central GA

[@johnkendall6962]

@@kevinbeazy Do you cull them? Here in PA they need 3 points on one antler to be legal. Some parts of PA has to have 4 points on 1 antler so there is no way.

[@kevinbeazy]

We don’t practice culling on our land but some people do. Here we get two buck tags, one must have minimum 4 points on one side and the other tag has no restrictions.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

I just like seeing the huge variety of buck genes. Pretty dang cool! Older is best in my book...

[@benfesenmyer4795]

This year I shot a double spiked buck that was shot in a spot where it did not damage any meat

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Cool Ben!

[@Hankxiong]

I see it every year on social media. “Cull buck, he’s been a spike for 5 yrs.!” Most of the time those post are tiny bodied 1.5 yr old bucks

[@chrishenicke2052]

I call bullshit on 5 yr old spike!

[@mississippislayem5449]

Chris Henicke I’ve killed a buck so old that his antlers started to regress. He had really tall and really wide spike. He had turned grey in the face and the rut activity had made him lose a bunch of weight

[@chrishenicke2052]

Mississippi Slay em, I can believe that.

[@gavinnance6066]

On the property I hunt there is a 4 1/2 year old deer and he is a fork with a 25 inch inside spread that is a cull buck to me

[@user-dn6qy1ou1f]

Maybe there's a book on that property that explains how to tell a better lie

[@ronyoung1407]

I have one week a year that I can deer hunt. I take the first deer I have an opportunity at. I'd love to get a monster buck, but I'm more concerned with having a freezer full of venison.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Ron, some have very little time to hunt...got to make the most of your time!

[@roadsgt97]

Boy pa where i hunt they had antler restrictions for years and now you hardly even see a buck. Before that you seen slot of bucks of all sizes

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

While the ARs don't have anything to do with the number of overall deer, the doe permits sure do!

[@lilnate2135]

I'm 14 killed my first buck at 11 it was a nice 8 point. Then the 2018 season I wanted to get one with a bow if I remember I think I let 2 spikes walk that day but it was late afternoon I had a spike 10 yards infornont of me so I took because it was gonna be my first kill with a bow

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Man so cool to hear Nate! And congrats, great job!

[@jaymosley8342]

You're absolutely right I agree

[@josephkelly2194]

I had some friends come over and cull a few spikes. Mostly the deformed ones. The herd I manage had several spikes very deformed. Among them were a lot of older 8 pointers who's racks were smaller but weighed over 200 pounds. I put out minerals this year and seen much better racks. You cant remove the gene pool but you can cut it down.