Archery Mule Deer Hunt - Where to Start?

[sleepymoewi]

Ok, so I have 4-5 elk hunts under my belt and finally an archery bull down. I'm ready to get back out west but also want to start planning opposite years muley hunting if possible.

Any suggestions to get started? I've read and seen some amazing animals come out of Nevada and Arizona, but thats a little far. I'd probably stick to WY, MT, CO or Dakotas. Looking for public land DIY type of hunt. First time or two would probably an easier draw, but want to build some points for higher quality hunt down the road.

Any help is appreciated, thanks.

 

[Montana]

Love my state... Head to the eastern part. Not super high quality but LOTS of animals. 700 series tag. So much public access the hard part would be where not to hunt. Get an Antelope tag too, for the mid day hunt. They're in then rut then too. lots of fun

 

[Jon Boy]

Another vote for MT if this is going to be one of your first muley hunts. Its action packed and never go a day with out seeing bucks, they may not be monsters but nice bucks can still be found and its a really fun hunt.

 

[Drhorsepower]

Don't forget about Colorado! I am assuming you are from eastern part of country. I would hit up Montana or Colorado an build points in every western state feasible. That way when you are ready to hunt those states you will be able to.

 

[trophyhill]

Don't forget about Colorado! I am assuming you are from eastern part of country. I would hit up Montana or Colorado an build points in every western state feasible. That way when you are ready to hunt those states you will be able to.

i agree. if i were to apply for any state for Mule Deer other than my home state of NM, it will be CO. i have seen some absolute Monster bucks in the last 3 years i have elk hunted in CO. absolutely hands down CO. there are probably more bucks over 180" than all other states combined.

 

[nvarcher]

I'd say Nevada is a great choice. I hunted the same area two years in a row archery and was seeing 15-30 bucks a day. A couple being 180+, and one that was pushing 200. It is an area that a non-resident could draw once every year or two.