So I hunted this 8 pointer last year with no luck, and thankfully he survived and has grown significantly. What is your guys best guess on age? My first guess was 4.5.

I think he is 3.5 no belly sag and no sway in his back. Typical short brow tines for Switzerland county.

Thanks, Joe. The only reason I was thinking 4.5 was because it looks like his belly is just about in line with his chest.

Regardless of age, he's a fine deer.

Originally Posted by jbwhttail:
I agree Joe.

A fawn is a "fine deer", for its' age. The question was asked because the hunter wants to learn how to identify a mature deer, I answered the question, I did not say it was a fine deer or a bad deer.

What I will say is if it meets your minimum standard........ kill it!

Bottom line......... if you wont shoot it on the first day............dont kill it on the last day.

I've looked at all the pictures several times Alex and that deer will not make 125" net, tines are too short. But he is a mature deer.

I know your stance on deer, Joe, and you know I'm still trying to learn! I share your mentality about not shooting on the last day what you past earlier.

I will be honest, as I sit here at my desk I would not hesitate to take this deer, but that could change if I get a look at him while in the stand.

Arlowe13 I agree(d) with the age assessment jb made and the intent of my original post was simply to compliment the deer in the pic.

Best of luck to you this upcoming season.

Thanks, jjas. I would have to agree he is quite a fine deer.

If you want to harvest him,,,do so. If not,,,don't! I would...

I didn't really mean for this thread to turn into whether or not would I shoot him, I was more just curious of only the age.

I have been reading and practicing on field judging as much as I can, but the best way to learn, for me, is to talk to folks who are good at it.

my guess is 3.5