LAST EDITED ON Jun-03-09 AT 07:21AM (MST)[p]I have hunted GMU 10 four times(most recently in 2008) in the last six years, once with preference points and the other times with vouchers. The decline in the mule deer herd is as spectacular as the increase in the elk herd in that unit. I was there six years ago, hunting in the same drainage, when that Christenson fellow from Utah killed the 241" non-typical that is in the B&C book. Three years ago, I killed a typical that grossed 191 6/8. That unit is a shell of its former self as far as deer hunting is concerned. I hunted there last year, third rifle season, and could hardly find a deer, much less a decent buck. On the evening of the sixth day, I killed a 173" typical that was by far the best buck I saw. If you've never hunted that unit before and aren't familiar with it, I would call Laura's Corner in Rangely and speak with Laura or her husband Deuce and listen to what they have to say. They own the processing operation in Rangely. Monte Elder can also confirm what I am saying.
I think there are three factors that have contributed to the decline in the mule deer herd in this unit:
1) Lions.
2) Huge increase in the elk population displacing the deer.
3) Winter kill
I believe there are still a few really big bucks in this unit but the knowledgeable locals there last year believe the deer herd is less than 1,000 animals - a far cry from the DOW estimate.
