Colorado Unit 61 3rd Season Mule Deer

jblack307 · Jul 27, 2011

One of my very good friends has been fortunate enough to get this tag. This is a dream hunt for him and I am trying to help him out as much as possible. I have hunted 54 several times for myself, but never 61, and know nothing of the unit. Does anyone have any information on the unit or what he can expect? We have horses available and he is in good shape for being nearly 70. I know hunting is hunting, but we're ready to do whatever it takes to connect with a good buck. Any information and help would be greatly appreciated.
Jake from Wyo

HiMtnHntr · Jul 27, 2011

This can be a very tough hunt even though the deer have typically come down out of the higher aspen/oak country by the 3rd season and into the low sage and cedars. This country is huge, rugged, and thick. It may be worthwhile for your friend to contact an outfitter with experience in the area and access to private land. I have no experience with any of the outfitters in the area, but there are a few that do well. Horses may not be a bad idea to access some of the more rugged country.

dominguez · Jul 27, 2011

I will attempt to help you.61 is a large unit with a diverse land scape from large sage brush flats and oak brush hill sides,to steep canyons with pines and firs,lots of water holes this year and good grass.weather in third season is unpredictable but has been mild the lastfew years.great area,good luck!

Paul_Crawford · Jul 27, 2011

I sent you a message. Unless you have a lot of money don't waste it on an outfitter. You won't need one. pc

kilowatt · Jul 27, 2011

Don't let Paul's BIL guide you as you might end up shooting the wrong buck....LOL

Brian
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Paul_Crawford · Jul 27, 2011

Brian, what the heck is BIL?

velvetmonster · Jul 27, 2011

Jblack,

So what constitutes a "good buck" for you and your hunter? That will make a big difference. If you've hunted 54 several times you no doubt have seen some bruisers..you wont find 61 to be as good as 54 was 5 years ago but it does hold some monsters.

What caliber of buck are you hoping to find?

leonard · Jul 28, 2011

Jake -PM sent

HiMtnHntr · Jul 28, 2011

I suggested the outfitter mainly due to the guy's age. As I said, I have no experience with any of the outfitters. You certainly don't need an outfitter for that hunt.

jblack307 · Jul 31, 2011

He wants to find a "200 deer. I know everyone wants one, of these. He is a dedicated hunter that has put his time in some pretty serious units, just never connecting with anything over 180. I've seen him pass many very respectable bucks in the 170-180 range hoping to get a chance a a bigger one. He loves being out and isn't the type that is dissapointed if he goes through the whole season and doesn't fill his tag. 54 was amazing the few years I hunted it before the winter kill. We have horses if need be. He's been looking forward to this hunt for a very long time. Im sure it will be fun, but like always, it's hunting.

SanJuan · Jul 31, 2011

If you do decide to go with an outfitter Bill Wilson with Knight Canyon Outfitters is a great guy and can put you on a good buck. Let me know if you want his contact info.