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HARRIS -- The results are in for the 14th annual Deer Poll at the Island Resort and Casino.  John Dupont of the Escanaba-Ford River area brought in an 18-point buck.

Seventy-one deer were brought in Thursday night; that's an increase from last year's 58.  Over 600 people turned up to join in on the festivities of hunting season.

The hunters brought in their deer to be measured, weighed, and judged.  They say they’re enjoying the fellowship of the hunt.

Gordy Nelson of Au Train said he was able to shoot an 8-pointer on the opening day of deer season.

“And I fired with my right hand and got him right behind the left shoulder," said Nelson.

While there was a sea of orange and camouflage, there were also many parents who brought their kids to the family event.    

“Well, you know, a lot of stuff is getting lost by the wayside,” said hunter Dan Peterson. “And hunting around here is the one thing that seems to hold true no matter what. There are a million things you can do together as a family from a hunting standpoint."

DNR officials collected data for population modeling.  Officials say that wildlife management is done with hunter dollars.

“People think that state taxes cover the cost of things,” explains Russ Mason, Chief of Wildlife Division with the DNR.  “It turns out state taxes are good to pay because it'll keep you out of jail. It’s got nothing to do with conservation."

Organizers say despite the slow start at the evening, this year's deer poll was well attended and a huge success.