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Arnold Karr, DNR Wildlife Biologist from the Cass City office, explained that the deer kill in Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola Counties had been predicted to be about the same as last year. But, so far, that's not been the case.

"We've had over 200 deer Ð probably closer to 240 Ð that we've checked so far. We're running 6% higher than last year, and that's with one less check station," said Karr. The DNR has check sites in Cass City, Sandusky and in Huron County. A fourth site, in Minden City, was eliminated this year because of a lack of personnel out of the Cass City office.

"Hunters have told us that they were seeing 50-60 deer a day, and that's more than just a few hunters saying that," added Karr.

One reason Karr cited for improved hunting is that nearly 90% of the corn planted this year has been harvested. "Taking that coverage away is in the hunters' favor," Karr noted. He also added that bigger bucks are being taken this season, pointing to the fact that more and more hunters are letting small bucks go by each year.

The Buck Pole at Scott's Quick Stop, at M-53 and M-46, has been extremely busy since opening day last Thursday. Owner Scott Phillips, who is sponsoring hunting contests there, said he had 42 bucks come in on opening day and a total of 97 through Sunday. The biggest buck he has seen was a 12-point with a 19" inside spread.

A Big Buck contest is also going on at Sandusky Marathon. Employees there noted that 57 deer were brought in during the first three days of the firearm season. The biggest Ð a 13-point.

The season will continue in Michigan through No.r 30.