N.E. Ut muzzleloader suggestions?

gdog · Jul 26, 2005

I am hoping someone wouldn't mind giving some suggestions as to area's to hunt for the NE Utah muzzleloader hunt.

Last bunch of years have been hunting the southern unit, but this year pulled a NE tag. Went out last weekend and scouted west of Mill Hollow (north of current creek-non motorized area). Went for a 6 mile hike and didn't see many deer or much sign. Elk is another story though. Thought by staying in the non-motorized vehicle area, would cut down on the number of people, but with the lack of deer sighted and lack of sign don't think its worth the time(?) Plus, reading some old post here on MM, seems like that area gets a ton of pressure during the rifle hunt.

Went up off of mirror lake to the soapstone area a few weeks back. I have archery hunted up there long ago, but if the amount of campers and 4 wheelers is any indication of usage, I am sure this area is just pounded during the hunt.

I have never killed a "decent" buck and have been holding out the last few years without luck. Plan on scouting as much as I can till the season. Would be very appreciative if anyone has some suggested area's to check out. I don't mind putting in the time, but the area is so big...I don't have that much time and a push in the right direction would be great.

Thank you in advance!

I can be reached at arappl(at)earthlink.net if anyone cares to email me directly.

-Andrew

Prism · Jul 26, 2005

Gdog,

You're hitting the nail on the head when it comes to the Currant Creek and Soapstone areas. However, there are some decent bucks taken every year. If you hunt this area just get used to the fact that you're sharing it with several thousand other hunters and everyone else. If possible let the other hunters do the work and find some escape routes.

I'd really suggest hunting out around Flaming Gorge. It's great muzzleloader country and there are plenty of deer with some decent bucks.

You might also consider hunting some of the lower country in the unit out in the basin. Not many deer or hunters, but you may find something worth shooting, and not have to deal with the crowds.

The other good option would be to throw on a backpack and hit the wilderness areas in the high Uintahs. VERY few deer, but there are some big ones.

The NE region seems to get more crowded every year. Don't know why, but it does.

Good luck!