Huntinnut,
I haven't hunted the first season in 12A west, however I've hunted 12A Archery in late September and was with a buddy last year for the 12A West late hunt, based on my experience up there, and the data that I've researched (I have provided below) I wouldn't ?bother with pinion/juniper habitat types unless it has snowed. Remember this deer herd is extremely migratory and will remain at higher elevations until significant snowfall pushes them off. As the fall progresses the deer become more and more secretive. Being in position at first shooting light can be critical as the big boys are often bedded down for the day within minutes of the sun breaking the horizon. Waterhole hunting becomes less productive as frost begins to supply the need for water. By this time of year the deer are visiting water in the dark. Hunt the travel corridors up or down from water and you will improve your odds. Bachelor herds are typically broken up by this hunt and bucks can be relatively evenly distributed throughout the plateau. Concentrate on areas that are more inaccessible. These early hunts can be difficult because the deer are typically located in areas of formidable cover and are not easily located or glassed. Come prepared for all types of weather. Conditions can vary from 80 degrees to below freezing, from sunny to snow, and from pleasant to down right ugly. The prepared hunter is often the successful hunter"
If you happen to get a good snowfall, I would focus in the Gooseneck area and or the Sowawats (you will see a high concentration of hunters, however there have been some decent deer taken in the past few years)
Also, be prepared for anything as the weather can change in an instant.
I hope this information can be useful. If you want, you can email me as well. (GOOD LUCK)
Month Ave. Temp Ave. Rainfall Ave. Snowfall
September Max 74?/Min 42? 1.27" 0.0"
October Max 55?/Min 32? 1.14" 4.0
