How often are Pope & Young records updated?

Records Review Cycle

The Pope and Young Club reviews and updates its records every two years, incorporating new measurements and verifying existing records through a rigorous process. This cycle typically aligns with the club’s biennial convention and awards program. The submission deadline for new records is usually set two years in advance to allow for thorough evaluation and verification.

Verification Process

To qualify for a new Pope and Young record, an entry must meet specific criteria, including the animal being taken with a bow and arrow, adhering to local and state regulations, and meeting a minimum score that varies by species. For example, the minimum score for a typical whitetail buck is 125 inches, while a typical elk bull requires a minimum of 310 inches. The verification process involves a thorough review of documentation, including photos, measurements, and witness statements.

Record Maintenance

Once a record is established, it remains active for two years or until a new record is submitted and verified. After two years, the record is considered inactive, but it can be reactivated if the original hunter submits additional evidence or if another hunter submits a new record that is higher than the existing one. This system ensures that the highest scores are recognized and maintained in the Pope and Young record book.