The early spring that occurred in 2011 was kind to many Mississippi deer hunters.

Deer management zones, along with antler criteria that began in 2010, and the concept of quality deer management are resulting in many hunters observing more mature bucks on their properties.

“Recent research has shown that an early spring green-up allows deer more time to recover from the stress of the rut and cold winter, which helps deer devote more energy to body and antler growth,” said William T. McKinley, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Deer Program Biologist.

The combination of sound deer management and increased nutrition has resulted in numerous reports of record class bucks, 160 Boone and Crockett inches or better, across Mississippi. At this time, 64 bucks scoring better than 160 inches have been reported in 29 of the state’s 82 counties — including Warren, Sharkey, Issaquena, Madison, Rankin, Yazoo and Adams.

Of the 64 record bucks, 41 scored greater than 170 inches, 25 scored greater than 180 inches, eight scored greater than 190 inches, and three scored more than 200 inches.

Most of these scores are not official, as the required 60-day drying time has not elapsed.