How to Tag a Doe

It may be that it's all about the thrill of the hunt, but there's no denying the satisfaction of a tasty chunk of venison cooked to perfection. However, both the joy and the pleasure will prove short-lived if the deer isn't legal, with neither a hunting license for the kill nor a tag to prove it. When it comes to tagging a buck, you have a choice of spots to attach the tag; the horns are common. But if you plan to take a doe home, you're going to have to tag it on another part of her body.

Things You'll Need

  • Jackknife
  • Cable tie or similar fastener
  • Plastic resealable baggie
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a hunting license at a sporting goods store, online or at another designated location. Check the tag regulations and specifics when you buy your license. Some states require tags specifically for does, for instance, while other states use tags that must be notated as used for a doe after the kill. In addition, some states may specify where the deer must be tagged.

    • 2

      Pull the tag away from the deer hunting license if it is attached. Use the tag specified for does if applicable; some states may have one tag with different sections for different classes of deer or other methods, so follow the method used in your state.

    • 3

      Fill the tag out completely, detailing your name, address and other specifics as requested.

      Indicate the date on the form, either in writing or by cutting out or making a notch in the field designating the month and day. Do not fail to mark the date in whatever manner your state requires or your doe will not be considered legal.

    • 4

      Poke a hole, using a jackknife or similar tool, through either the doe's ear or through the space between the two leg bones on a rear leg. In some cases, tags are tied around the leg, but creating a hole through the deer carcass is more secure, especially if the deer is dragged or tossed around to any extent.

    • 5

      Insert a cable tie or wire tie through the hole in the doe's ear or leg. Pull the fastener completely through, then thread the deer tag onto the fastener as well. Secure the tie to ensure the tag remains on the carcass.

    • 6

      Consider engulfing the now attached tag in a resealable bag and photographing the tag and deer as well. A plastic baggie helps protect the information written on the tag, and a photograph establishes documented proof of the kill and tag.