lucky DRAW

[unclebutch]

I just found out that I got drawn for the San JUAN Elk Ridge mule dear rifle hunt. I have never hunted that area of Utah and totally unfamiliar with it. If there is anyone out there who would be willing to point me in the right direction to begin scouting the area,, where to start and where to avoid, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your help. Uncle butch

 

[Gator]

LAST EDITED ON Jun-09-10 AT 07:28PM (MST)[p]Go to Blanding then Head West.
















take Elk Mtn rd to gooseberry left to dry mesa area or straight to Bears ears area,these are all good places to start scouting,
7 sisters Buttes,Dark Canyon Wilderness,Redvine Canyon all good spots.


"I have found if you go the extra mile it's Never crowded".

 

[mathewsman]

What gator said plus the pea vine, kagilia, & south long point. If you're thinking of going guided, call black timber outfitters (blanding boy). You'll love your hunt and the country is spectacular!

 

[Blanding_Boy]

If you have never been here before you will be over whelmed in my opinion. Its an extremely large unit and the deer are literally scattered from one end to the other and from top to bottom. While densities certainly vary from spot to spot, they are everywhere. The bigger and best bucks tend to be on the out of the way places. Many of the areas mentioned above are good places to start but many of those areas the deer will have moved out of by the time your hunt (assuming you drew the rifle hunt since you are a NR) rolls around.

I would for sure plan on hunting the entire hunt and at least 3 good days arrival before your hunt starts. I really wouldn't waste my time for a summer scouting trip--many of the deer you see will be on top and won't be there by the time your hunt rolls around.

best of luck

Todd Black
BTO

 

[unclebutch]

thanx to Gator, Mathewsman and Blanding-Boy, I,m off to a good start with your suggestions and advice. I will keep you informed with how the hunt went. Thank you; Uncle Butch

 

[Gator]

Todd is 100% right about the deer moving A summer trip will get you in touch with the area and it's road system, you will also see what is in the unit. I would do a summer camping trip.
If you decide to hire a Guide BTO does kill some whoppers on this unit EVERY year.
Good Luck you got a great tag.


"I have found if you go the extra mile it's Never crowded".