bluetick78
WKR
I'm sure this can be disputed, but I feel there is a larger problem at hand when it comes to "trophy" species, i.e. sheep, goats, moose, and soon grizzlies. In the lower 48 I feel that there is simply not enough to satisfy the number of hunters that would like to harvest one. If a state like Wyoming or Idaho doubled the number of tags, it would increase opportunity and revenue for a few years but the population of these animals would be pushed into decline. The biggest factor in the outstanding trophy potential of certain units hinges on extremely limited harvest. Most of these species, excluding grizzlies, are facing more mortality every year from circumstances that are fairly new in the large scheme of things. Moose, in most areas of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, are facing huge predation losses to wolves. Bighorns are dying off needlessly due to mismanagement of domestic sheep causing bacterial pneumonia. Goats are suffering the same fate to a lesser degree.
I have had the opportunity to guide for all these species minus grizzlies, and enjoyed every second of it. I would eventually like to have most of these species adorn my living room walls, but I may not be allowed the chance to pay that taxidermy bill because I may never draw a tag. Frustrating? Yes. But I realize that not every person that wants a 10" billy or 180" looper can have one. There's quite simply not enough for everyone.
I have had the opportunity to guide for all these species minus grizzlies, and enjoyed every second of it. I would eventually like to have most of these species adorn my living room walls, but I may not be allowed the chance to pay that taxidermy bill because I may never draw a tag. Frustrating? Yes. But I realize that not every person that wants a 10" billy or 180" looper can have one. There's quite simply not enough for everyone.