Nineteen sets of antlers were measured at the annual antler measuring day for the River Ridge branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation on December 8 at the Activity Centre.
The number of antlers brought in for scoring was better than it has been in the last couple of years and even the reports from hunters indicates that the white-tailed deer population is rebounding in this area, said Kathy Thomas, branch president.
Many of those attending the antler measuring day noted that there have been years when many more white-tailed deer trophies were scored, but what made this event special was that the overall average indicated bigger trophy antler sets, she said.
It was also noted that three of the bigger white-tailed deer trophies were shot by female members of the branch, Thomas said.
Once again, Floyd Hendrickson of Margo was in charge of scoring the antlers and he was assisted by Catherine Lockert, a branch member. Dianne Hendrickson and Damon Paley were in charge of recording the scores.
The branch always appreciates having Hendrickson do the scoring because he is qualified to measure antlers using the Henry Kelsey and the Boone and Crocket measuring standards, Thomas said. Hendrickson is called upon to do the scoring for many SWF branches in the area.
In total, brought in for scoring were three moose, one elk, two mule deer and 13 white-tailed deer. Awards will be presented at the annual awards banquet on March 5 at the Rainbow Hall.
The annual antler measuring day is a social event for many members, Thomas said. In addition to the hunters bringing in their trophies to be scored, many members attend just to see the selection of antlers and to exchange hunting stories.
