Both. Half the tags are random draw, half based on preference points. Non residents are welcome to join the hunt if they draw. Half of the quota harvested in the first 24 hours. The Wisconsin boys are getting it done!
I agree that the classic wood handled Rapala fillet knife is the gold standard. Holds an edge but most importantly has just the right amount of flex in the blade.
3x9 has served me well for whitetails in Wisconsin and I leave that scope on 5x to start the hunt on any given day and rarely make an adjustment. Hunting antelope in Wyoming I use 4x12 and start the day with that scope at 9x. A range of magnification is helpful, of course, but what magnification...
Thank you. Your experience seeing more deer than elk in the aspens is helpful information as well as thoughts about what type of topography/cover draws you to look for bedded deer. It is interesting to hear what makes some areas look "bucky" and other areas look "elky". Good stuff.