Tips for Hunting Mule Deer

Colton Heward, the author, once encountered a statement that deeply irked him: Mule deer are unintelligent. This notion had been expressed countless times, driving him to sarcastically counter with remarks like, If these creatures are truly as simple-minded as you claim, then surely your rafters would be adorned with majestic bucks. However, the responses he received in return were often ones of confusion, feeble excuses about missed opportunities, or even the presentation of photographs depicting youthful and immature bucks. Throughout my entire existence, I have embarked on the pursuit of mule deer. Immersed in the remarkable mule deer territories of the Western region, I have built an expertise in guiding others. I can assure you that a fully grown male mule deer possesses remarkable intelligence, far from being dim-witted. In actuality, those adept at hunting and successfully taking down mature buck mule deer would strongly argue the contrary. Engaging in mule deer hunting for these wise creatures entails a real-life battle of wits comparable to a grand game of chess on an astonishing scale. This endeavor demands a specific skill set, meticulously refined and polished through years of experimentation and learning from mistakes.

As time goes by, the task becomes more challenging, yet not unattainable. Hunters continually prove this by successfully tagging mature bucks in areas with high hunting pressure. So, how can one achieve such success? While nothing can substitute firsthand experience, here are some helpful mule deer hunting tips and strategies that, once applied, will guide you towards tagging an elusive, fully-grown buck.

Discovering the Ideal Environment
The choice of habitat and elevation for mule deer hunting heavily relies on the timing of your pursuit. In September and October, these deer can be found across various terrains, ranging from the elevated regions beyond the tree line to the agricultural fields nestled in the valley plains. While the agricultural zones usually offer an abundance of deer, they simultaneously present challenges in terms of public access. The immense expanse of National Forest and BLM land in the West compels the vast majority of hunters to seek their game in these millions of acres. Nevertheless, thanks to the assistance of onX and various other mapping applications, there are ample hunting prospects for adventurous individuals who are willing to explore smaller sections of public land that adjoin private properties.

Once November and December arrive, the majestic deer bid farewell to the lofty mountains and embark on their adventurous journey towards their winter habitat. Interestingly, during this period, they also indulge in their enchanting mating rituals. This intriguing phenomenon not only brings the deer closer together but also enhances your chances of encountering a wise and fully-grown buck. If fortune smiles upon you and you hold a coveted mule deer tag during these magical months, exercise patience while observing the does, for a mighty buck is likely to be lurking in close proximity.

Consider the topography carefully before selecting your hunting location, ensuring that deer have access to their basic needs: nourishment, hydration, and shelter. However, keep in mind that what constitutes appropriate sustenance and hiding spots can vary significantly depending on your specific hunting grounds. If you find yourself in elevated areas, prioritize exploring basins featuring timber groves facing north, while neighboring grassy, south-facing benches and hillsides. In order to avoid hunting pressure, it is advisable to explore challenging terrains that meet the following criteria: sage-choked canyons, occasional bitterbrush and aspen spots, and limited accessibility or visibility from roads. By venturing at least one mile away from any road, you can significantly reduce the overwhelming hunting activity in the area.