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How Much Is a Trophy Buck?

Published in Trophy Hunting Costs 2 mins read

The cost of a trophy buck, specifically as a trophy fee during a hunting experience, ranges from $3,500 to $6,500, depending on the size of its antlers as measured by the Boone & Crockett (B&C) gross score. This fee is typically an additional charge applied when a hunter harvests a buck that meets specific antler size criteria, signifying it as a trophy.

Understanding Trophy Buck Fees

Trophy fees are a common component of guided hunting trips, especially for deer, where the quality and size of the animal are highly valued. These fees incentivize outfitters to manage their deer populations to produce larger, more mature bucks. The pricing structure is usually tiered, with higher fees for bucks that achieve greater B&C scores, which measure the overall mass and spread of the antlers.

Here is a breakdown of typical trophy fees based on B&C gross score:

B&C Gross Score (Antler Size) Trophy Fee
Over 130" to 140" $3,500.00
Over 140" to 150" $4,500.00
Over 150” to 160” $5,500.00
Over 160” to 170” $6,500.00

It's important to note that these figures represent the trophy fee only. They are typically added to other costs associated with a hunting trip, such as day fees, lodging, guide services, and tag/license fees. Therefore, the total cost of a trophy buck hunting experience will be higher than the trophy fee alone.

Factors Influencing Trophy Fees

Several factors can influence the exact trophy fee structure and the overall cost of a hunt:

  • Antler Measurement System: While B&C is common, some outfitters might use different scoring methods or simply base fees on the number of points or general size.
  • Location: Hunting ranches in prime locations known for producing large deer may command higher fees.
  • Hunting Method: Whether it's a spot-and-stalk, stand hunt, or another method can sometimes influence pricing.
  • Guiding Services: The level of guiding (e.g., fully guided vs. semi-guided) can impact the overall package price.

Hunters often discuss their desired buck size with the outfitter beforehand to understand the potential costs involved and ensure expectations align with the available animals and pricing tiers.