Quick Answer
To qualify for Pope & Young records, hunters must score at least 80 inches in the typical categories for whitetail deer and 115 inches for elk, with specific point and antler criteria applying for various species.
Minimum Entry Criteria
Pope & Young, one of the most respected big game organizations in North America, has specific minimum entry scores for various species. A typical whitetail deer entry requires a minimum of 80 inches, with a maximum of 160 inches. In contrast, typical elk entries must measure at least 115 inches. Non-typical entries for both species are assessed differently and require a minimum of 80 inches.
Species-Specific Requirements
Elk and mule deer have different minimum entry scores. For bull elk, the typical minimum is 115 inches, while non-typical entries require a minimum of 130 inches. Mule deer bull entries need to measure at least 105 inches to qualify. For antelope, the minimum score is 85 inches. Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats have different scoring systems and minimum entry requirements.
Measurement and Verification
Pope & Young requires hunters to have their deer and elk scored by a certified official. Measurements are taken from the inside spread of the antlers and include points, mass, and symmetry. Hunters must also provide proof of sex and species identification, as well as documentation of the animal’s origin. Any discrepancies or questions about the entry’s eligibility are handled by the Pope & Young records committee.
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