By Harry Morse, Correspondent
Editor Note: There are still North American hunts available for this season, including opportunities for Sitka blacktail deer in Alaska. These hunts don't require drawing a tag and can be very affordable. Correspondent Harry Morse has some leads for you as well as word on last winter's effects on some populations of these deer. Enjoy!
Sitka blacktail deer are native to the coast of Southeast Alaska where they are a staple of local hunters. They were also introduced to Afognak, Kodiak and Prince of Wales islands, where they are also hunted. Blacktails can be elusive, and hunts can be challenging affairs in the deep timber of dark, wet, coastal rain forests, or on steep, high alpine slopes. But, during the rut or after deep snowfall has driven them onto the beaches, the hunting can be very easy. Either way, it is an Alaskan adventure that may also include combo hunting for black and brown bears, wolves, mountain goats or some excellent fishing.
The antlers of Sitka blacktails are smaller than the mainland blacktails, with most mature Sitkas scoring between 90 and 100 points Boone and Crockett. These deer have a shorter face that accentuates their dark, curved antlers, and the trophies are exceptionally handsome: a three- or four-point Sitka blacktail is usually one of the prettiest mounts in a trophy room......
