Some hunters have switched to the newly approved rifles that fire straight cartridges, but many still plan to harvest this year's deer with the same muzzleloader they've relied on for about a decade.

Even if a hunter has made the switch, that muzzleloader is still valuable. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Triple Trophy Award recognizes those who kill at least one of their deer using black powder and a cloud of gray smoke.

The Triple Trophy Award is presented to anyone who harvests a deer using the three historic methods of capture – archery equipment, muzzleloader and modern rifle. The goal was to promote the use of archery and muzzleloaders in the state and to increase public awareness of female deer hunting. Because there were only two bucks in the seasonal harvest, hunters had to harvest at least one doe to receive the award.

Because hunters have become accustomed to harvesting female deer to balance the Arkansas deer herd, the award primarily serves as a celebration of hunters who challenge themselves with different types of weapons.

“Allowing rifles with straight cartridge cases in alternative firearms is a great way to perhaps attract a few more hunters into the woods who have been intimidated by learning to shoot a muzzleloader, but we still want to recognize hunters who enjoy it “challenge,” said Jeremy Brown, deputy deer management coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Ralph Meeker, deer program coordinator, said maintaining the muzzleloader requirement also avoids confusion about which type of weapon was used on which deer.

“Many of the firearms approved during the alternative firearms season are technically considered modern weapons. The award is based on the weapon type and not the season in which it is harvested. Therefore, keeping the three different weapon categories for the award makes it easier for the hunter to complete the challenge without confusion,” Meeker said.

Applications for the Triple Trophy Award must be received by April 10 at www.agfc.com/tripletrophy. If an application is approved, the hunter receives a special badge and certificate in recognition of the achievement.