Nevada Archery Mule Deer

Brad G

Brad G

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I was fortunate enough to draw an early archery mule deer tag for 111, 112 & 113. I'm a non resident from TN who has never hunted NV. This will be my 4th mule deer hunt. Made 2 archery trips to New Mexico in very marginal areas to get some experience. I killed my 1st muley last year in CO with my MZ. I have some questions for some of you guys who have some experience in NV.

1. The tag is good from August 10th - September 9th. My schedule is pretty flexible. I will be hunting solo in the wilderness areas in Unit 111. I've never had a chance to hunt that early. Should I plan to hunt the 1st couple of weeks of the season, or does the hunting pressure get lower as the season progresses?

2. On the Nevada web-site, they mention the publication that shows the location of the wildlife guzzlers. Is that info needed for an early mule deer hunt? My thoughts are that it wouldn't be that helpful in the high country. Needed or not?

3. There appear to be some decent sized creeks in wilderness. From what I've read, I know it's been pretty dry even for NV standards, could I expect to find my drinking water in the larger creeks during August and September?

I live 26 hours away (long solo drive) so I'll be doing all my scouting on-line and on the phone. I did some research prior to applying and have some several areas of interest that I've marked in Google Earth. I'm hoping to get my Forest Service maps in the mail in the next couple of days to better identify all of the possible access points. If anyone has any general information about the area that might help with my scouting, I would be very appreciative. Thanks in advance for any feedback.

Brad
 
Hey Brad!

1) If you can get out there before the season starts, it will dictate whether you want to stay or wait it out. As a general rule, pressure will lessen towards the end of the season. I never really worry about pressure too much during the archery season. There's just less hunters overall and Area 11 is large enough to get away from the crowd.

2) Guzzlers tend to be set up on the lowland or foothills. You may see does, fawns and 2-point bucks drinking from it but by and large, almost everything that you want to pursue will be up top where it is cooler.

3) Some of the creeks are seasonal but others run year round. You can typically find campgrounds at the foot of those streams. In looking at OnX, you can pick apart the streams by looking at the basins extending from the top of the peaks and down as they spiral down to the mountain base. There will be a nice streak of green running alongside them on both sides indicating water. Give NDOW a call and one of their biologists or even one of their phone reps can give you some points on water sources.

As with all mule deer archery hunts, use your glass to spot them (versus your feet) and be sure to be in good glassing position before sunrise. They don't stick around too long once the sun rises. They will finish up eating then head to their bedding areas. Sometimes, they will move so keep an eye on them. Usually they just pick a spot and stay there until the sun is near the horizon.
 
One other note - access is very good in Area 11. Most of the private parcels will be in Unit 111 and 113 with very little in 112.

You will have no issues getting to your destination. The town of Ely is a fantastic spot for food or a place to stay if you prefer to go that route versus camping.
 
BroadHead said:
Hey Brad!

1) If you can get out there before the season starts, it will dictate whether you want to stay or wait it out. As a general rule, pressure will lessen towards the end of the season. I never really worry about pressure too much during the archery season. There's just less hunters overall and Area 11 is large enough to get away from the crowd.

2) Guzzlers tend to be set up on the lowland or foothills. You may see does, fawns and 2-point bucks drinking from it but by and large, almost everything that you want to pursue will be up top where it is cooler.

3) Some of the creeks are seasonal but others run year round. You can typically find campgrounds at the foot of those streams. In looking at OnX, you can pick apart the streams by looking at the basins extending from the top of the peaks and down as they spiral down to the mountain base. There will be a nice streak of green running alongside them on both sides indicating water. Give NDOW a call and one of their biologists or even one of their phone reps can give you some points on water sources.

As with all mule deer archery hunts, use your glass to spot them (versus your feet) and be sure to be in good glassing position before sunrise. They don't stick around too long once the sun rises. They will finish up eating then head to their bedding areas. Sometimes, they will move so keep an eye on them. Usually they just pick a spot and stay there until the sun is near the horizon.
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Thanks for the feedback. The only thing that I really have to plan around is moving my youngest son into college. Last year in CO, I got there a couple of days before the season (a much shorter season) and found the buck that I ended up shooting the day before the season and was able to get him opening day. That's was I was thinking about the guzzlers. I've got an OnX subscription so I'll definitely be looking at the green spots during my scouting. Thanks for the tip on contacting the NDOW. I will be contacting them and the USFS to get some additional information in regard to water, roads etc.
 
BroadHead said:
One other note - access is very good in Area 11. Most of the private parcels will be in Unit 111 and 113 with very little in 112.

You will have no issues getting to your destination
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I don't currently have a 4WD so I planning on concentrating on the wilderness areas where I can safely access the wilderness with my 2WD truck. That was one of the primary reasons that I put in for this area. Thanks again.
 
Good luck to your son on his first year in college. Exciting times :)

You are doing the right thing by thinking about your hunt and planning for it right now. You should be fine for the most part with your 2WD truck.
 
Brad G said:
Thanks for the feedback. The only thing that I really have to plan around is moving my youngest son into college. Last year in CO, I got there a couple of days before the season (a much shorter season) and found the buck that I ended up shooting the day before the season and was able to get him opening day. That's was I was thinking about the guzzlers. I've got an OnX subscription so I'll definitely be looking at the green spots during my scouting. Thanks for the tip on contacting the NDOW. I will be contacting them and the USFS to get some additional information in regard to water, roads etc.
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On x has guzzlers in the trails and rec layer.

It's not likely to be an issue in 111 as far as them being reliant on guzzlers for water.

Get there a couple days early, spot a buck and kill him!
 
I applied for this tag as well, I’ve drawn it in years past also hunted antelope out there most recently. The schell cr. range doesn’t disappoint. I’d be prepared to stay in town and hotel occasionally but mostly camp on the mountain unless you only hunt the north end of the unit. It can be a hot tamale in early august. I’d stay flexible and hit it hard from the opener. Keep the ice cold and run multiple coolers if you kill.
Ely is a great town, has a few great restaurants, good sporting good store, great people, nice steak house and a decent Asian massage joint if your into that, also has the Indian res on the south part of town if your into saving some cash on the ciggies. Best of luck and looking forward to you posting about your hunt.
 
PleaseDear said:
I've drawn the deer twice/bow and the antelope twice /bow.


Not sure if you have seen this or not?


forums.bowsite.com

Nv. 111-113

Bowhunting and Archery Information Article
forums.bowsite.com forums.bowsite.com



Robb
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I had not seen that thread. Thanks for the heads up. I saw your name and wondered if you were Robb from the Bowsite. I’ve been on that site for a long time. Al little newer to MM as I’ve gotten more into hunting mulies.

It’s cool to see some Pics of the area. I just got a FS map for the area and and Wilderness map for the High Schells wilderness. Strarting to narrow things down on OnX and Google Earth.

Thanks again.
 
Thanks to everyone who responded to my questions. I've received some very helpful information. Work has kept me busy but I'm hope to get back in research mode this week. I ordered some new camping gear to help lighten my pack. I can't wait to see some new country and it appears I will be seeing a lot of that on the 1,750 mile drive to get there. Seriously hoping gas prices go down before August!
 
Hopefully Lil Joe does something with those gas prices and they drop sooner than later, not looking good. Best of luck on your hunt.

C0F58C7D-207A-4BC7-A071-B7ED014EDD4F.jpeg
 
Brad G said:
Thanks to everyone who responded to my questions. I've received some very helpful information. Work has kept me busy but I'm hope to get back in research mode this week. I ordered some new camping gear to help lighten my pack. I can't wait to see some new country and it appears I will be seeing a lot of that on the 1,750 mile drive to get there. Seriously hoping gas prices go down before August!
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Buy a prius and tow your truck behind it.
 
Congrats on your draw, that is a beautiful area! As BroadHead posted, you will need to go high that time of year. Please keep us posted on your adventures!
 
Hunt update. Day 1 - Left Friendship TN @ 8:00 am. Drove solo 884 miles to Goodland KS (13+ hours). It’s a long way to NV but thankfully gas prices have dropped some!

Hope to make it to Delta UT tomorrow night and finish the drive to Ely area Wednesday am. Planning to hunt 8-9 days.
 
Servehim said:
Best of luck , make memories. Does driving 884 miles in one day give you "Truck Lag"?
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Yes it does! Drove another 800 today. Looking forward to not driving 800 tomorrow. Short drive from Ely to the spot I’m trying 1st.
Servehim said:
Best of luck , make memories. Does driving 884 miles in one day give you "Truck Lag"?
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LIK2HNT said:
Not sure about truck lag. But the older I get the more stuff my joints get after driving a long ways. Sure wish I was in my 30’s again.
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I’m 52 so I feel you pain. Not sure my wife is too happy with me making this trip solo! Hope it turns out to be a good hunt.
 
Those Daily Miles, remind me of when I drive to Iowa for bow Whiteys.


Have fun, be safe and Pick-a-$pot-------->



Robb
 
I've done those 800 mile treks before ( NM to the Jarbidge via Idaho) it Wiped me out ! End result ....well worth it. The bull I harvested is displayed here <
 
Go to Ely then head straight west to the highest peaks. There were nice bucks all over up there. A couple of years ago I scouted for my muzzleloader tag during the archery season and never saw a single person up there and walked right into a couple of groups of nice bucks ranging from 24-27 inches. Then found a big 30 inch wide buck on the back side west facing. I would love to go back. The deer act like they have never seen humans and so were not extremely spooky. They just stand and stare at you like trying to figure out what you are. It is steep so Archery is always tough but very possible.
 
FairweatherHTR said:
Go to Ely then head straight west to the highest peaks. There were nice bucks all over up there. A couple of years ago I scouted for my muzzleloader tag during the archery season and never saw a single person up there and walked right into a couple of groups of nice bucks ranging from 24-27 inches. Then found a big 30 inch wide buck on the back side west facing. I would love to go back. The deer act like they have never seen humans and so were not extremely spooky. They just stand and stare at you like trying to figure out what you are. It is steep so Archery is always tough but very possible.
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You must have you compass upside down.....
 
Slow 1st 2 days. Only seen 4 does and a few elk. May have to make a move to a different area in the Cleve Creek Basin. Surprised I have cell service.
 
Yeah, Area 11 is beautiful. Brad, if you're not already doing it, make sure you are glassing past 7pm. When I was out scouting a few weeks ago (in a different area/unit), the deer did not come out until closer to 8pm. Might be too late for a stalk but at least you will know if there are any bucks worth your time in that spot.

Of course, in the morning, be out there way before the sun rises. Good luck and thanks for the updates!
 
Saw 2 groups of bucks this am. One group of 6 with some decent 3 X 3s and a couple that appeared to be 4 x4s. Unfortunately they we’re < 1.5 miles away and on top of the world. Something spooked them out of the saddle and they ran down the drainage. Be nice to see them in a more accessible spot. Second group was young bucks but couldn’t closer the distance due to some does. My standards are that high.
 
Brad G said:
Unfortunately they we’re < 1.5 miles away and on top of the world.
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I was chatting with a couple of NDOW agents during my scouting trip last month (they were out there doing studies on the fish in the local lakes) and they said that almost all of the deer they encountered were way above tree line with the sheep.

That's exactly what I saw as well. Aside from a few does and two-points at 9,000ft, the rest of them were closer to 11,000ft.

Have you run into any other hunters or do you have the mountains to yourself?
 
BroadHead said:
I was chatting with a couple of NDOW agents during my scouting trip last month (they were out there doing studies on the fish in the local lakes) and they said that almost all of the deer they encountered were way above tree line with the sheep.

That's exactly what I saw as well. Aside from a few does and two-points at 9,000ft, the rest of them were closer to 11,000ft.

Have you run into any other hunters or do you have the mountains to yourself?
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It has been a hot July and august.
 
BroadHead said:
I was chatting with a couple of NDOW agents during my scouting trip last month (they were out there doing studies on the fish in the local lakes) and they said that almost all of the deer they encountered were way above tree line with the sheep.

That's exactly what I saw as well. Aside from a few does and two-points at 9,000ft, the rest of them were closer to 11,000ft.

Have you run into any other hunters or do you have the mountains to yourself?
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I haven’t seen any hunters up until this am. There were lights at the end of the road but haven’t seen them since.
 
Brad G said:
I haven’t seen any hunters up until this am. There were lights at the end of the road but haven’t seen them since.
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Ah, ok. Other hunters can be a blessing and a hindrance. Sometimes they can bump deer you are getting ready to stalk but other times they bump the deer closer towards you :)

Couple other suggestions - when glassing, put some emphasis on north-facing slopes and look really hard in the shaded areas such as that rock outcropping in your picture and the upper and lower edges of that aspen cluster beneath the rocks.
 
I would load a spike camp on my back with 2-3 days worth of food and water and hike up to the top and stay for awhile before going back down to replenish my food and water. I'm lazy that way.
 
Got shut-out yesterday other than elk. Ran out of food since all my beef jerky molded somehow. So I packed up camp and went into Ely to pick up some things.

Lessons learned so far, it’s really hot in Nevada and I really need a 4WD. It was much fun hiking 3+ miles to the truck down a road. It was too washed out for my truck!

Felt good to get a shower and some aIr conditioning. A bed will feel good tonight as well. Going to try another drainage that at max will require a 1.5 mile hike down the road. I’ll hunt Tues - Thursday and then head back home Friday am. Fortunately my wife is flying to Denver to help keep me awake and help out with the 26 hour drive.

Hopefully I’ll have some cell service in the drainage but it seems doubtful. I attached one of my favorite pics so far. Thanks for the advice and encouragement!

A1C66201-153E-4A7B-A41A-88AA24BACC44.jpeg
 
SureShot said:
I would load a spike camp on my back with 2-3 days worth of food and water and hike up to the top and stay for awhile before going back down to replenish my food and water. I'm lazy that way.
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That was my plan is I had been seeing any deer the last couple of days. That’s my plan for the new area I’m trying since I’ve only got 3 days left to hunt.
 
Any cattle water tanks in the area to check out. Hunted a unit south of you quit a few years ago. Found good water with a lot of fresh sign and hunted the canyons above it.
 
BroadHead said:
Couple other suggestions - when glassing, put some emphasis on north-facing slopes and look really hard in the shaded areas such as that rock outcropping in your picture and the upper and lower edges of that aspen cluster beneath the rocks.
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Yup. From my experience scouting and rifle hunting, you won't see a deer on a non north-ish facing slope from now until November. If you do it's only because they're running from something.

Fyi to others: roads are getting destroyed in NV this summer by flash floods. Was just out scouting and roads I drove in May easy are almost unpassable in my Tacoma.
 
Made my move to a new area this am. Will be able to hunt thru Thursday. Got as far as I could in the 2WD, then walked a mile further up the road. Then had a steep hike of just under a mile long. Had to go light so I could bring water. Left spotting scope in the truck. Best I could count I saw 24 deer this afternoon. It was cloudy so I really missed my scope. Could only put horns on 1 of them. Hopefully I’ll get a better look at them in the am.Here’s a pick of the area.

4425C50A-680F-4CFF-BA2C-A7174AC47637.jpeg
 
We’ll my time in NV is over. The new area that I moved to on Tuesday had a lot of deer. I wish I would have started out there! I’ve been in deer consistently for the last 3 days. Should have gotten it done last night. Got in on a group of 7 young bucks right at dark. They were up and feeding all around me. Couldn’t get a range with that many eyes. No excuses I shot right over the 2x2’s back.

Watched a group of 9 bucks all morning but they didn’t give me any opportunities. I was propably lucky that I didn’t try to hunt the pm. With all the rain that has moved in, I don’t think I would have been able to make it out in my 2WD.

It was a great hunt. Ended up seeing some beautiful country, lots of deer and elk. The last area was full of bucks but never saw any really good bucks. I’m disappointed that I missed but just having the opportunity was what I came for. It was quite a rush.

I’m glad I had call phone service. It made the solo hunt much more enjoyable. Thanks for all the input, support and encouragement before and during my hunt, I really appreciate it.

If your are the praying type I would appreciate your prayers for safe travel back to TN. I’m not looking forward to the 2,600 miles drive.

Thanks again and I hope y’all have a great season. I’ll be chasing whitetails in TN. Sitting in a tree is going to be quite boring after a hunt like this!

8B6EC674-84B1-4D7D-8059-C75FE3293D5A.jpeg


D749AC03-9C60-4B91-9B20-46D7DCAE90FC.jpeg
 
Thanks indeed for sharing your hunt with us, Brother. It's minor consolation but glad you were able to put on a stalk and let an arrow loose. Sending a prayer along for a safe trip home.
 
Brad G said:
We’ll my time in NV is over. The new area that I moved to on Tuesday had a lot of deer. I wish I would have started out there! I’ve been in deer consistently for the last 3 days. Should have gotten it done last night. Got in on a group of 7 young bucks right at dark. They were up and feeding all around me. Couldn’t get a range with that many eyes. No excuses I shot right over the 2x2’s back.

Watched a group of 9 bucks all morning but they didn’t give me any opportunities. I was propably lucky that I didn’t try to hunt the pm. With all the rain that has moved in, I don’t think I would have been able to make it out in my 2WD.

It was a great hunt. Ended up seeing some beautiful country, lots of deer and elk. The last area was full of bucks but never saw any really good bucks. I’m disappointed that I missed but just having the opportunity was what I came for. It was quite a rush.

I’m glad I had call phone service. It made the solo hunt much more enjoyable. Thanks for all the input, support and encouragement before and during my hunt, I really appreciate it.

If your are the praying type I would appreciate your prayers for safe travel back to TN. I’m not looking forward to the 2,600 miles drive.

Thanks again and I hope y’all have a great season. I’ll be chasing whitetails in TN. Sitting in a tree is going to be quite boring after a hunt like this!

View attachment 84965

View attachment 84966
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Thanks for taking us along. Love threads like this. Safe travels and have a great rest of the season.
 
I admire your grit Brad G. A solo hunt that far away in such unfamiliar country is not for the faint hearted. Obviously that's not you.
Best of luck with your TN whities and come visit out west again.
 
Last edited:
Thanks for sharing. Shows lots of commitment to drive that far and miss work. Better luck next time, but some of my best trips are ones when the tag isn't punched.
 

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