Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Other Big Game => Topic started by: Karl Blanchard on July 26, 2022, 12:32:04 PM

Title: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 26, 2022, 12:32:04 PM: Been digging my way to the bottom of Google images looking at all the rams that I can. In Alaska a ram has to be 8 years old, double broomed, or full curl. To be full curl they have to pass one of three criteria; stick test, circle test, or angle test.

Here is the literature Alaska puts out on sheep legality.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/applications/web/nocache/regulations/wildliferegulations/pdfs/ramid.pdf40DE94393E65D0DED624DFBBEE751547/ramid.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwiyg9qTpJf5AhWpJ0QIHScgCW8QFnoECAsQBg&usg=AOvVaw13QjjGMszf2QWZh0ATibyD

Another good resource and probably the quickest and most efficient way of field aging rams is the crown method .

https://agingsheep.com/#first
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 26, 2022, 12:44:24 PM: Let's start it off easy. Based on Alaskas legal definitions of a legal ram post if you would shoot or pass and why. Feel free to elaborate as much as you'd like.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: MtnMuley on July 26, 2022, 12:55:56 PM: 10.5
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: time2hunt on July 26, 2022, 03:25:14 PM: 8.5

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: emac on July 26, 2022, 03:26:28 PM: 9.5 or 10.5 the rings off the head are tough to judge for me sometimes. I am sure mtnmuley is correct.

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Dan-o on July 26, 2022, 04:12:19 PM: I'd have to shoot that one.

I sent you a field judging guide.
Use it and you will be fine.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Timberstalker on July 26, 2022, 04:20:42 PM: Quote from: emac on July 26, 2022, 03:26:28 PM
9.5 or 10.5 the rings off the head are tough to judge for me sometimes. I am sure mtnmuley is correct.

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This. I get lost on the rings closest to the hairline sometimes.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Limhangerslayer on July 26, 2022, 05:10:53 PM: Shoot first and ask questions later Karl, Alaska is really lenient! Especially on non residents!😂

But I agree that he’s probably 10.5 maybe 9.5
But you’re looking at a perfect world right there. That’s a great shot of a ram. Jess definitely legal.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: X-Force on July 26, 2022, 05:19:13 PM: 8.5

Maybe someday.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: fishngamereaper on July 26, 2022, 05:36:25 PM: To accurately answer I'm going to have revisit this after I do a 1k gain per mile hike while watching for bears, slightly cold fingers and mildly dehydrated...

Sitting in my hammock with a cocktail isn't quite creating the environmental factors necessary to cloud my judgement.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Benny on July 26, 2022, 05:50:17 PM: Probably passes the angle test
Probably is not full curl
Probably is 9 or 10 but I’ve seen real annuli turn false pretty fast. I’m not shooting on age or at that angle. Gotta study him more at different angles.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: fishngamereaper on July 26, 2022, 06:11:54 PM: On a more helpful note .
He's legal as far as I can tell from the angle.
Looks 9.5 conservatively.
Looks full to me at that angle.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on July 26, 2022, 06:40:09 PM: I can only get 8 rings but being color blind probably doesn't help that. I think full curl, from that angle but not positive on that front either. I'd need a lot of time watching them in the field before I'd feel comfortable. That's the one time I feel like having a guide would be great, just to be with someone who looks at alot of sheep and doesn't need the time I do. I'd still go DIY if I could though.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Okanagan on July 26, 2022, 08:15:10 PM: Quote from: MtnMuley on July 26, 2022, 12:55:56 PM
10.5

Ditto.

The rings get closer and closer together with less length growth to the horn each year as the ram ages, and it gets harder to distinguish the annual rings. The last three rings on this ram are pretty close together, but look distinguishable to me with armchair time.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: KNOPHISH on July 26, 2022, 08:53:46 PM: Definitely 8 so shooter but I think he’s 9. What’s the real age?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 06:57:21 AM: Quote from: KNOPHISH on July 26, 2022, 08:53:46 PM
Definitely 8 so shooter but I think he’s 9. What’s the real age?
I have no idea the real age that's why I'm asking :chuckle: My goal was to compare my answer to others and see if anyone was seeing something I wasn't.

My conclusion was based on this angle alone I would not shoot on curl alone. I'd not shoot on angle though I think with a slight head turn and a better look he is there on angle. I'm shooting this ram based on age though. He's got 4 for sure in the crown and likely 5. Add the 3 out to the end, min 1 in the base and he is solidly 8 but I'm pretty positive he has 5 in the crown so 9.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 06:58:20 AM: Here is another one...
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Flaming Antler Outdoors on July 27, 2022, 06:59:18 AM: 10+
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: MtnMuley on July 27, 2022, 07:04:43 AM: 7.5
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: time2hunt on July 27, 2022, 08:01:55 AM: 7.5 or 8

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on July 27, 2022, 08:55:10 AM: I'm only getting 7 on that one and I'm not thinking full curl either. Just break the lamb tips off once you get him down and you're good to go
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on July 27, 2022, 08:57:22 AM: For real though, that has to be super stressful sitting behind the glass counting rings or trying to will a ram to turn his head so you get a better look at him. Wanting it to be legal so badly but wanting even more badly not to shoot a sub legal ram. I'd love to be in that spot though and envy you immensely.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: time2hunt on July 27, 2022, 09:17:51 AM: I’m sure Karl had the best optic money can buy and they are worth every penny .

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Gringo31 on July 27, 2022, 09:33:02 AM: I've never hunted dall sheep. I have spent a lot of time thinking/dreaming out it with a brother who is a resident. I'll say this, the more I've looked at sheep pics, tried to learn, read and watched sheep guru's argue.....it just gives me a level of anxiety that I'm uncomfortable with.

Wishing you the very best of luck and hoping a no brainer steps out where all of the wonder is removed. :tup:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 09:50:34 AM: 10 on first 7 on second
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 10:36:09 AM: Quote from: Gringo31 on July 27, 2022, 09:33:02 AM
I've never hunted dall sheep. I have spent a lot of time thinking/dreaming out it with a brother who is a resident. I'll say this, the more I've looked at sheep pics, tried to learn, read and watched sheep guru's argue.....it just gives me a level of anxiety that I'm uncomfortable with.

Wishing you the very best of luck and hoping a no brainer steps out where all of the wonder is removed. :tup:
Double broomer for the win for sure :chuckle:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: D-Rock425 on July 27, 2022, 11:57:15 AM: This seems harder than the Billy vs Nanny quizzes I've been taking.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 12:48:37 PM: I initially had him at 7 as well but my brother pointed out some potential rings I may have missed. For sure not legal on anything else other than age and not even sure on that without a very up close look through the Swaro. For sure there is 3 in the crown with some other potentials that are hard to see. One more in the crown and he would for sure be legal.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 12:49:49 PM: Notice the "swoops" on the bottom of the horn?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Ridgerunner on July 27, 2022, 03:15:03 PM: Quote
For real though, that has to be super stressful sitting behind the glass counting rings or trying to will a ram to turn his head so you get a better look at him. Wanting it to be legal so badly but wanting even more badly not to shoot a sub legal ram. I'd love to be in that spot though and envy you immensely.

Especially this year, there will not be many rams available that are legal at all due to the big winterkill back when these rams were first born. Dall sheep harvest stats are on a downward trend in Alaska right now. Counting annuli in the field is tough, even tougher when there aren't alot of rams around.

I'm not in the envy spot this year though, but wish you the best of luck, it'll be a tough hunt but not impossible. Can't wait for the pics and the story, hunting Dalls in Alaska is something everyone should experience, wild and big country up there its cool.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 03:30:02 PM: When aging I always start with locating the second and third year annuli, will almost always be the longest distance between rings so easy to locate. Than start counting up from that third annuli. If his third year year is at the bottom of his chin it's usually a mature ram and worth taking a closer look.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 05:18:14 PM: Quote from: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 03:30:02 PM
When aging I always start with locating the second and third year annuli, will almost always be the longest distance between rings so easy to locate. Than start counting up from that third annuli. If his third year year is at the bottom of his chin it's usually a mature ram and worth taking a closer look.
what's your opinion on Lancasters crown method?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 05:26:40 PM: Quote from: Ridgerunner on July 27, 2022, 03:15:03 PM
Quote
For real though, that has to be super stressful sitting behind the glass counting rings or trying to will a ram to turn his head so you get a better look at him. Wanting it to be legal so badly but wanting even more badly not to shoot a sub legal ram. I'd love to be in that spot though and envy you immensely.

Especially this year, there will not be many rams available that are legal at all due to the big winterkill back when these rams were first born. Dall sheep harvest stats are on a downward trend in Alaska right now. Counting annuli in the field is tough, even tougher when there aren't alot of rams around.

I'm not in the envy spot this year though, but wish you the best of luck, it'll be a tough hunt but not impossible. Can't wait for the pics and the story, hunting Dalls in Alaska is something everyone should experience, wild and big country up there its cool.
Don't forget back to back to back bad winters recently to nuke all the upper age class. No 8 year Olds and no 10+. Great timing on our part :chuckle:😬😬😬
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 07:28:45 PM: Quote from: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 05:18:14 PM
Quote from: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 03:30:02 PM
When aging I always start with locating the second and third year annuli, will almost always be the longest distance between rings so easy to locate. Than start counting up from that third annuli. If his third year year is at the bottom of his chin it's usually a mature ram and worth taking a closer look.
what's your opinion on Lancasters crown method?

I'll have to look that up as I'm not familiar with that method.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 07:32:52 PM: Quote from: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 07:28:45 PM
Quote from: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 05:18:14 PM
Quote from: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 03:30:02 PM
When aging I always start with locating the second and third year annuli, will almost always be the longest distance between rings so easy to locate. Than start counting up from that third annuli. If his third year year is at the bottom of his chin it's usually a mature ram and worth taking a closer look.
what's your opinion on Lancasters crown method?

I'll have to look that up as I'm not familiar with that method.
scroll down to like the 3rd video.

https://agingsheep.com/#first
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Limhangerslayer on July 27, 2022, 07:59:28 PM: With so many things that are factors. It’s almost like you need to shoot a9 or 10 year old to make sure it’s 8. Or carry a ruler see if he’ll let you walk up and check him!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 10:10:57 PM: Quote from: Limhangerslayer on July 27, 2022, 07:59:28 PM
With so many things that are factors. It’s almost like you need to shoot a9 or 10 year old to make sure it’s 8. Or carry a ruler see if he’ll let you walk up and check him!
:yeah:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 10:21:47 PM: Quote from: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 07:32:52 PM
Quote from: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 07:28:45 PM
Quote from: Karl Blanchard on July 27, 2022, 05:18:14 PM
Quote from: Houndhunter on July 27, 2022, 03:30:02 PM
When aging I always start with locating the second and third year annuli, will almost always be the longest distance between rings so easy to locate. Than start counting up from that third annuli. If his third year year is at the bottom of his chin it's usually a mature ram and worth taking a closer look.
what's your opinion on Lancasters crown method?

I'll have to look that up as I'm not familiar with that method.
scroll down to like the 3rd video.

https://agingsheep.com/#first

Thanks for the link, was very informative. That guy knows way more about Dall sheep than I do but I like my way judging in the field for age, find that third year annuli. I've guided three rams that we shot off rings and I took my time in the glass to make sure they were legal. I try to get 2 out of the 3 on a ram legality wise before my guy pulls the trigger :twocents:.

Lets see some more pics to judge!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 28, 2022, 05:38:13 AM: Here's a ram that's a no brainer due to being full curl but how old is the old boy...
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: time2hunt on July 28, 2022, 05:51:16 AM: 9.5

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 28, 2022, 07:18:53 AM: Here is a reference guide Dan-O sent me in case anyone needs to use it... :chuckle:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Timberstalker on July 28, 2022, 07:28:21 AM: :chuckle:

Even detailed the growth rings! Dude is a sheep legend.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 28, 2022, 07:32:02 AM: I'm counting 9.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 28, 2022, 08:19:18 AM: It's in it's 9th year. I notice alot of Brooks range sheep are not as heavy as other areas. I found a nice article that talks about that and the fact that alot of Brooks Range rams rarely get over 40" inches. So there's your goal! 40"+

https://www.newsminer.com/fairbanks-hunter-bags-46-inch-sheep-in-brooks-range/article_cacce685-407b-5c83-83f8-445937d3614a.html
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 28, 2022, 08:36:57 AM: Quote from: LDennis24 on July 28, 2022, 08:19:18 AM
It's in it's 9th year. I notice alot of Brooks range sheep are not as heavy as other areas. I found a nice article that talks about that and the fact that alot of Brooks Range rams rarely get over 40" inches. So there's your goal! 40"+

https://www.newsminer.com/fairbanks-hunter-bags-46-inch-sheep-in-brooks-range/article_cacce685-407b-5c83-83f8-445937d3614a.html
:chuckle: My goal is legal 8)
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 28, 2022, 08:51:32 AM: I would be in the same boat. Probably do what the guy in the article did and shoot one first day that was legal. I was just pointing out that they say those rams in that area have smaller bases so it could be deceiving on size comparisons. I raise Icelandic sheep and some rams grow twice as fast as others it seems like. I have a young ram with really wide horns growing up right now. I will post a pic. But then other rams I've had grew narrow horns that swept straight forward it seemed like. Without a side view it would be hard to tell which one had bigger horns or longer curls.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: emac on July 28, 2022, 08:57:33 AM: Did dan-o send that to you for free. If he did you are a lucky man. People would probably pay big bucks for that guide.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 28, 2022, 09:08:51 AM: Quote from: LDennis24 on July 28, 2022, 08:51:32 AM
I would be in the same boat. Probably do what the guy in the article did and shoot one first day that was legal. I was just pointing out that they say those rams in that area have smaller bases so it could be deceiving on size comparisons. I raise Icelandic sheep and some rams grow twice as fast as others it seems like. I have a young ram with really wide horns growing up right now. I will post a pic. But then other rams I've had grew narrow horns that swept straight forward it seemed like. Without a side view it would be hard to tell which one had bigger horns or longer curls.
oh for sure. In a perfect world I'd love a wide ram but I pray nightly for a double broomer so I don't even have to think about it. Actually a pair a double broomers so we can double up then go to gunning on some caribou and griz :chuckle:

Quote from: emac on July 28, 2022, 08:57:33 AM
Did dan-o send that to you for free. If he did you are a lucky man. People would probably pay big bucks for that guide.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

cost me zero dollars! Smokin deal really.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Dan-o on July 28, 2022, 10:12:17 AM: I personally. Carried that pocket guide on every sheep hunt I've ever been on. 8)
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: emac on July 28, 2022, 10:27:39 AM: Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on July 28, 2022, 10:40:05 AM: Quote from: Dan-o on July 28, 2022, 10:12:17 AM
I personally. Carried that pocket guide on every sheep hunt I've ever been on. 8)

If I'm ever lucky enough to go on my own sheep hunt I'll be hitting you up for one of my own
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 28, 2022, 04:11:24 PM: So the other thread just popped up about the FSB shutting down Units 24A and Unit 26B, west of the Sagavanirktok River. Maybe there is something going on there like disease or too low numbers? Does that leave you with other options like 24B or how does the Resident and Non resident Unit details work out? I'm confused how it works.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 28, 2022, 06:04:41 PM: Quote from: LDennis24 on July 28, 2022, 04:11:24 PM
So the other thread just popped up about the FSB shutting down Units 24A and Unit 26B, west of the Sagavanirktok River. Maybe there is something going on there like disease or too low numbers? Does that leave you with other options like 24B or how does the Resident and Non resident Unit details work out? I'm confused how it works.
it's purely a power move to push out hunters. This affects both residents and non residents alike. We are hunting a different unit but this will surely put more guys in our chosen Unit.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 29, 2022, 06:47:18 AM: Back on track. Another obviously legal ram but how old?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Timberstalker on July 29, 2022, 06:51:19 AM: Goodness - 12.5?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: KNOPHISH on July 29, 2022, 08:39:48 AM: I’ll go with 10, smashed up rings at bases is tough.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 08:50:43 AM: It's probably in it's 10th year but hard to make out annuli near the bases.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 29, 2022, 10:06:25 AM: I say 11.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Falcon on July 29, 2022, 10:28:26 AM: I am thinking 9.5

I am far from and expert only being on one dall sheep hunt. I told my guide I would be happy shooting the first legal ram I saw knowing that changes in weather, and other factors can close down opportunity quickly.
Having said that, I ended up seeing 3 legal rams the first day in a group of 18 rams feeding in the corner of a drainage. We watched them for 2 days, and lucked out that they weren’t pushed out. I chose this ram over a heavier ram that was bloomed on his left side. I like the look at having both lamb tips in place. My guide ended up spending 45 minutes judging if he was full curl beginning at 1200 yards. When they moved in to 420, that was shooting range for me. Actually, that was a stretch, and I was fortunate to hit him on the first shot with my 270. Here is a good side view. Bio aged him at 9.5 years. Full curl on right only. 38x37.5 13.5 bases. It was and always will be my most memorable hunt.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 29, 2022, 10:31:21 AM: Killer ram!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on July 29, 2022, 11:26:34 AM: I'm consistently a year or two off on the low side from what the majority of you are seeing. I can only come up with 9 on Karl's last one and 8 on the one on the wall.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 01:13:20 PM: I see 8.5 yrs on Falcons ram and not 9.5. Again once a ram gets to a full curl his horn growth slows drastically. I know this from raising sheep and that's all. Obviously nutrition plays the biggest role in growth like any other animal. If you look at the Wild Sheep Society judging charts they show how certain factors like droughts or nutrition or even disease can cause false annuli as the rams body will conserve energy for healing and it will give an appearance of the winter annuli where the growth slowed or stopped for a period. I have a ram that has some brittle narrow spots on his horns where he got sick and almost died a few yrs back. He is healthy again but it permanently affected his horn growth habits. I'll find the pics from the WSC site.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 01:17:45 PM: Here's what they are pointing out.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 01:18:45 PM: A few others
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 29, 2022, 01:48:47 PM: I'm seeing 9 on falcons sheep, nice ram btw. 38" is big!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Falcon on July 29, 2022, 02:11:41 PM: Quote from: Houndhunter on July 29, 2022, 01:48:47 PM
I'm seeing 9 on falcons sheep, nice ram btw. 38" is big!

Thanks Houndhunter. The ole say it’s better to be lucky than good.......
That was me on that hunt :chuckle:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 02:16:03 PM: It's the perfect specimen for a Dall sheep. That's what I would be looking for if I was hunting them. I still don't see 9 annuli
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 29, 2022, 02:42:22 PM: In my opinion your jumping from year one to year three, his second year is in-between those :twocents:.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Falcon on July 29, 2022, 03:07:32 PM: Quote from: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 02:16:03 PM
It's the perfect specimen for a Dall sheep. That's what I would be looking for if I was hunting them. I still don't see 9 annuli

I don’t know if it aging is a perfect science. Here is another look front on.
He indeed may be 8. Still really happy with him :drool:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 03:37:41 PM: Quote from: Houndhunter on July 29, 2022, 02:42:22 PM
In my opinion your jumping from year one to year three, his second year is in-between those :twocents:.

No because that would make year three's growth longer than year two. And I will confidently say that never happens. I have never seen it. Not on a wild animal or a domestic one. Not even on my ram who got sick and almost died. Excluding the lamb tips, the growth gets shorter every single year. After year four the inside annuli spacing usually stays the same but the top of the horn shows a change in spacing each year. It's hard to judge the age on the annuli from years 5-6 up but the younger years are always consistent. Just giving my observations raising horned sheep and looking at photos of known aged sheep. I feel like in the field it is going to be very difficult to accurately count years above 8+. I'll post the other false annuli charts for reference. One is very hard to make out years 8-10+.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 03:40:40 PM: Hey Falcon, if you can, get a pic of the topside of the horns near the bases and the outer top edge of the horn looking down. If it's not too high on the wall? This will show the defined grooves of each annuli.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 03:53:36 PM: Here is the chart of the 10+ yr old ram. So Falcons could very well be 9.5 and the hidden annuli is near the bases.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 03:57:59 PM: Lots of factors that make aging over 8 very difficult in the field in my opinion.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 04:29:49 PM: Karl's turn, what age do you think this ram is? Sorry wrong pic. Fixed it.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 29, 2022, 05:33:03 PM: 9, full curl, and angle approved. Pow!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 29, 2022, 07:19:49 PM: I was thinking 9 also. Houndhunter what do you think?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 30, 2022, 12:26:10 AM: I'm seeing 8 on that guy.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 30, 2022, 06:18:00 AM: I think year two is hidden due to the flair of that horn. Obviously with a turn of his head we'd be able to see the rest of that horn length.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on July 30, 2022, 06:21:08 AM: Something like this. Green signifies the annuli in the crown. Red are the rest.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 30, 2022, 08:59:58 AM: He's got some serious flair now that you mention it, especially looking at his left side. What I'm counting as year two could be year three which would give me nine.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 30, 2022, 09:08:22 AM: Here's a good one, I guessed him at nine when I was watching him through the spotter.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Falcon on July 30, 2022, 09:28:14 AM: HH,

That’s a beautiful ram. I am also guessing 9.
I will take a pic from below on my ram when I get back from the keys on a lobster dive.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 31, 2022, 02:05:46 AM: It's early so I'm not sure but I think that ram goes 10 yrs you posted Houndhunter. Here's another pic of the cracked lamb tip one head on.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 31, 2022, 11:20:27 AM: :tup:, once we got our hands on him he aged out to 10.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on July 31, 2022, 11:37:19 AM: So as I said the other day. I have never seen growth from year 3 exceed year two. Have you ever seen that on a ram Houndhunter? I should probably say that I have never been on a sheep hunt as well. I raise Icelandic sheep and have glassed and observed Bighorns many times in areas like Lincoln and the Wenaha. Also down in Oregon on the John Day river. Les Schwab ranch. Fun place!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on July 31, 2022, 12:12:01 PM: I've seen that once on a ram my boss guided, definitely not typical.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 03, 2022, 10:38:00 AM: TTT. Here is an old boy with some really convincing FA's (false annuli)...
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on August 03, 2022, 12:45:41 PM: I can only find 7? Looks like there should be more
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: time2hunt on August 03, 2022, 12:47:41 PM: 10.5 he’s a shooter for sure

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: MtnMuley on August 03, 2022, 01:15:53 PM: 12.5. Possibly 11.5
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on August 03, 2022, 01:17:54 PM: I'd be super interested to see one of you guys mark out the annuli like on some of the previous ones, I'm no expert and I'd love to see which ones I'm missing.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: emac on August 03, 2022, 03:25:36 PM: I am thinking 11.5 on the last one

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Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on August 03, 2022, 03:53:23 PM: 10.5
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Houndhunter on August 03, 2022, 03:57:25 PM: Guessing 11 on him, sweet mass!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: time2hunt on August 05, 2022, 05:33:51 PM: I know your leaving soon looks like first winter storm warning for the Brooke’s range be careful have fun and shoot a stud.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-gets-first-winter-storm-205125849.html
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 05, 2022, 05:41:02 PM: Quote from: time2hunt on August 05, 2022, 05:33:51 PM
I know your leaving soon looks like first winter storm warning for the Brooke’s range be careful have fun and shoot a stud.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-gets-first-winter-storm-205125849.html
well that's fun 🤦‍♂️ :chuckle:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Dan-o on August 05, 2022, 05:53:31 PM: Quote from: Karl Blanchard on August 05, 2022, 05:41:02 PM
Quote from: time2hunt on August 05, 2022, 05:33:51 PM
I know your leaving soon looks like first winter storm warning for the Brooke’s range be careful have fun and shoot a stud.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-gets-first-winter-storm-205125849.html
well that's fun 🤦‍♂️ :chuckle:

They are like deer.... Much easier to spot in the snow.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 05, 2022, 07:28:37 PM: Quote from: Dan-o on August 05, 2022, 05:53:31 PM
Quote from: Karl Blanchard on August 05, 2022, 05:41:02 PM
Quote from: time2hunt on August 05, 2022, 05:33:51 PM
I know your leaving soon looks like first winter storm warning for the Brooke’s range be careful have fun and shoot a stud.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-gets-first-winter-storm-205125849.html
well that's fun 🤦‍♂️ :chuckle:

They are like deer.... Much easier to spot in the snow.
haha. I'm relentless behind the glass. If they are there I will find them. I just get sick thinking about having to traverse those mountains with a foot of snow on them 🤮
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on August 06, 2022, 12:49:36 PM: Looking forward to playing "age that sheep" with the one you bring back
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Dan-o on August 06, 2022, 12:55:57 PM: Quote from: Karl Blanchard on August 05, 2022, 07:28:37 PM
Quote from: Dan-o on August 05, 2022, 05:53:31 PM
Quote from: Karl Blanchard on August 05, 2022, 05:41:02 PM
Quote from: time2hunt on August 05, 2022, 05:33:51 PM
I know your leaving soon looks like first winter storm warning for the Brooke’s range be careful have fun and shoot a stud.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-gets-first-winter-storm-205125849.html
well that's fun 🤦‍♂️ :chuckle:

They are like deer.... Much easier to spot in the snow.
haha. I'm relentless behind the glass. If they are there I will find them. I just get sick thinking about having to traverse those mountains with a foot of snow on them 🤮

I just have a feeling that you will come back with a trophy- and memories- of a lifetime.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on August 06, 2022, 01:42:36 PM: Ok time for inspirational big boy rams. I hope you find something like this!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on August 06, 2022, 01:45:07 PM: And maybe you hear something around the side of a bus size rock outcropping and you slip and almost fall but after you catch your footing you look up and see this! Yeah!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 26, 2022, 04:44:14 PM: Just got done at ADFG. Rams are aged, measured, and plugged. So let's age some rams! :chuckle:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: fishngamereaper on August 26, 2022, 05:42:19 PM: That one should fall between holy crap and holy sheet.... :chuckle:

I'm going 10.5 but I think I'm under.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on August 26, 2022, 08:19:06 PM: Quote from: fishngamereaper on August 26, 2022, 05:42:19 PM
That one should fall between holy crap and holy sheet.... :chuckle:

I'm going 10.5 but I think I'm under.

I thought I was doing something way wrong because I kept counting 11, maybe I wasn't as off as I thought. Is that yours or your brothers?
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: pianoman9701 on August 27, 2022, 08:51:27 AM: 12 and 3 months
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: pianoman9701 on August 27, 2022, 08:52:20 AM: Any guesses on these sheep?

Sorry. :'(
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on August 27, 2022, 09:51:04 AM: I'm gonna say 11.5 on that beauty! I really wanna know the score on that one too. And the base measurements on them. I truly think the mass is what makes them appealing to me, more so than the curl. That one is perfect in my book!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 27, 2022, 10:31:58 AM: Quote from: pianoman9701 on August 27, 2022, 08:51:27 AM
12 and 3 months
winner winner sir. ADFG aged him at 12 years old.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on August 27, 2022, 11:20:56 AM: Yep, heavy all the way out on that old boy! That's a dream ram!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: pianoman9701 on August 27, 2022, 11:34:28 AM: It takes an old goat to age an old sheep. Well done, Karl.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 27, 2022, 12:20:25 PM: OK here is Michael's. A bit more straight forward.
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: LDennis24 on August 27, 2022, 12:32:03 PM: 9... Ish lol
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Jpmiller on August 27, 2022, 07:41:48 PM: I see 9 too

12 years is an old sheep, congrats to you sir!
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Gringo31 on August 29, 2022, 11:55:16 AM: I'm still just speechless :yike:
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: harleymc on August 29, 2022, 02:52:29 PM: Holy crap, you guys did it! A double on Dall's. That's outstanding.
We met on the flight from Seattle to Fairbanks, I was with my son and we were heading out for Caribou.
We both tagged out as well, but I'd trade my Caribou for a sheep! Well done!
(http://)
Title: Re: Let's Play a Game! "Age that sheep!"
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 29, 2022, 05:25:18 PM: Quote from: harleymc on August 29, 2022, 02:52:29 PM
Holy crap, you guys did it! A double on Dall's. That's outstanding.
We met on the flight from Seattle to Fairbanks, I was with my son and we were heading out for Caribou.
We both tagged out as well, but I'd trade my Caribou for a sheep! Well done!
(http://)
haha! Too funny! I was wondering if you were on here. It was great chatting and so cool you guys tagged out! That's a cranker caribou man!!!! Well done!