When do i take does to help thin the herd?

[zslinker]

Hey guys i dont want to sound dumb but when should i start taking does to thin the herd? I have about 200 acers of private property that me and a buddy hunt and we are trying to work on deer management... we have both always heard that if you take does it helps bucks grow bigger because there is more food to go around. I dont know if this is true or not but i would assume take them before it gets cold. i would really appreciate any tips that you guys have for us!

thanks,
Zach

[HeartLunger]

Yes, what you heard is correct. Take does whenever you can. You are allowed up to 6 does this year, attempt to tag out.

[deerjunkie]

Definitely shoot some.......but just be cautious if you want to shoot some in a couple of weeks. There just may be some brute following her!!:yikes:

[bowhunter1023]

This may help some...

http://www.buckmasters.com/bm/Resources/Articles/tabid/135/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/925/Dos-and-Donts-of-Doe-Management.aspx

http://www.qdma.com/articles/details.asp?id=116

[TheCream]

I agree, if you are serious about thinning them out, shoot them whenever possible until you are tagged out. After only 2 years of practicing some QDM on our main hunting place, we are seeing a big difference in sightings of bucks. Whacking does helps a lot. As was said above, be mindful of does in the rut because there just might be a boodaddy strolling in behind her!