By Rob Potter
CALLICOON — There is a new leader in the 2011 Sullivan County Democrat Big Buck Contest.
Fifteen-year-old James Schulz of Cochecton took over first place in the contest by shooting a big 8-point buck on Nov. 25 in the Town of Bethel. Schulz then took the buck to TK Taxidermy in Jeffersonville, which is one of the official measuring stations for the Democrat contest.
The buck totaled 80 3/4 in the Democrat scoring system. Its two beams were nearly symmetrical as they measured 25 1/2 inches and 25 1/4 inches, respectively, in length. The spread between the beams at the widest point was 22 inches.
Schulz shot the buck with a .270-caliber rifle from a distance of 225 yards.
Remember, the contest is open to hunters who legally shoot a buck during the regular firearm deer season here in Sullivan County or in Wayne County, Pa. The season continues here in Sullivan County through Sunday, Dec. 11. The season in Wayne County, Pa. opened yesterday and ends on Saturday, Dec. 10.
The Democrat Big Buck Contest has two divisions – Biggest Rack and Heaviest Deer.
First place in the Biggest Rack Division is $100 plus a free mounting courtesy of Rod’s Taxidermy in Callicoon. The runner-up will receive $50.
The Heaviest Deer Division, which is open to bucks and does, has three prizes. First place is $100, second place is $50 and third place is $25.
For a list of the official measuring and weigh-in stations for the contest, please see the ad on this page.