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Illinois Hunter Bags Potential World Record Shiras Moose in Idaho
A hunter from Illinois has made a remarkable achievement in Idaho's Sawtooth National Forest, securing a Shiras moose that experts believe could establish a new world record for archery. This significant event occurred merely a day after another substantial moose, also hunted in the same region, underwent inspection, highlighting the exceptional opportunities available in this particular hunting ground. The impressive size of the recently harvested bull has generated considerable excitement among hunting enthusiasts and record-keeping organizations, who are now awaiting its official measurement.
The successful hunt was led by veteran guide Hoby Gartner, owner of Deadline Outfitters, who shared his astonishment at the sheer scale of the animal. Gartner recounted how the moose, downed by Drew Stamerjohn on September 1st, surpassed their initial estimations. "He was so big, we really underestimated him," Gartner stated, emphasizing the bull's extraordinary body size. The team was confident the moose would break existing records, but its true magnitude only became apparent upon closer inspection. This particular unit in Idaho is highly sought after, with only one non-resident tag available, making Stamerjohn's achievement even more exclusive.
Idaho's moose population has seen a significant increase over the past five decades, now numbering around 12,000 across the state. This growth underscores the success of wildlife management efforts. Every moose harvested in Idaho must undergo a thorough inspection by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. During these inspections, officials collect teeth for age determination and blood and tissue samples for disease testing, ensuring the health and sustainability of the moose population. Dan Garren, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's southeast regional supervisor, underscored the importance of these inspections for gathering vital information to effectively manage the species.
The remarkable bull, sporting velvet antlers at the time of the hunt, is currently at an Idaho taxidermy shop. It is undergoing a mandatory 60-day drying period before its antlers can be officially scored. Initial measurements indicate a width of 55 4/8 inches, with a gross green score of 190 4/8 inches and a net score of 185 inches. For a potential world record, the Pope & Young Club, the governing body for archery records, mandates a panel scoring process to ensure accuracy and fairness. The current Pope & Young world record for a velvet Shiras bull, set in 2005, scored 161 6/8 inches. Given Stamerjohn's bull's impressive preliminary scores, there is strong anticipation that it will comfortably surpass the existing record, marking an unprecedented achievement in archery hunting.
