Any Tricities area Deer Hunters around that can provide clarification, advice. (home, buy)

[Tony1790]

Hello all,

I'm a very intermittent hunter, I hunted last year for on my own land, saw no bucks, took no shot. Last time I shot a deer was 2002 in Alaska (where I was stationed with the military).

My question for clarification/advice:

1. It's currently Bow season and you can take any deer/sex correct? I've never shot a bow, so I doubt that I can learn in time for hunting unless I buy a cross bow, what do ya think?

2. Rifle season is buck only here in WA county correct?

3. Private land, I have my own land 26 & 8 acre parcels, you don't need a license to hunt but have to take it to tag at a ranger station, why? Just to show how many deer are harvested?

4. Processing, does anyone process their own at home or do you take it to a butcher, and if so, where should I take a deer if I'm luck enough to get one.

Thanks

Tony

[ChuckTheLocal]

Hey Tony
Lets see...

1.Yes either sex. I would not recommend trying to bowhunt this season. It takes at least a month of shooting to get confident enough to make a good shot. A cross bow, also takes practice. Just get out and get you area ready for rifle season. Maybe scout out some good spots to set up and cut some shooting lanes, set up a stand, whatever.

2. correct

3.Yes for records only. It helps the state wildlife biologist get there data right, so that ultimately we have a healthier herd.

4. I don't know of any local processors to recommend, but I'm sure these guys do ---> Tri Cities Branch

FYI- this is one of the best informative forums pertaining to deer hunting--> http://www.qdmaforums.com/
Those guys know WAAAAAY to much about deer, but they have been a HUGE resource for me. Especially when I decided to invest more than a day or two in the stand and really started making my land a better deer habitat.

Hope that helps.

[Tony1790]

Originally Posted by ChuckTheLocal

Hope that helps.

Thank you, this does really help. I'll wait for next season to try and learn to shoot a bow and I'll give rifle hunting another look.

Thanks again, you helped alot.

Tony