Colorado Mule Deer unit 66

[Ridn9high]

Hello Gentlemen. Does anyone have information on the 3rd rifle season for unit 66? My Dad and I have 12 PP each which puts us in the running for a 3rd season draw possibly next year. We don't have the ability to put in scouting time and will likely need a guide, but would prefer a drop camp versus fully guided if possible (basically to save money). Any input is appreciated. Thanks guys! Happy hunting!

Looking at the draw statistics, looks like only one with 13 NR points drew this year. Add in the later season dates next year, the point creep might jump a little more than normal.

 

[jroplanner]

Looking at the draw statistics, looks like only one with 13 NR points drew this year. Add in the later season dates next year, the point creep might jump a little more than normal.

Thanks @Ridn9high, I appreciate the input. Are later seasons opening up all over Colorado next year? Point creep keeps killing our plans, but hopefully there's still something good you can do with 13 PP.

 

[ceby7]

I archery hunted 66 for deer this year. Not that it will help anyone with rifle tags but I would be willing to answer some questions if anyone has any. Just send me a PM.

 

[toddh]

How much do you think point creep will go up next year? 50%? More or less? I am worried about getting into 67 with 7 points for the second season.

 

[Ridn9high]

How much do you think point creep will go up next year? 50%? More or less? I am worried about getting into 67 with 7 points for the second season.

For the 2015 season, non Residents with 6 points had a 20% chance of drawing a tag. I think guys with 7 points next season will have a 15-20% chance of drawing a tag

 

[toddh]

It would have to increase 100% for me to have a 25% to draw. Meaning there would be 24 with 7 points and 24 with 8 points. I'm hoping for a 50% increase. That would give a 65% chance.

 

[Ridn9high]

It would have to increase 100% for me to have a 25% to draw. Meaning there would be 24 with 7 points and 24 with 8 points. I'm hoping for a 50% increase. That would give a 65% chance.

Most of these better tags have been seeing a 1 point jump (100% increase) each season. I really think it will be more of an increase in 2016 with the later dates. Seems like a lot of guys with points have been holding off to use their points for those dates.

 

[packmule]

How'd you guys do?

 

[Ridn9high]

Had a successful and fun hunt. Will post a lot of pics and story in next couple of days

Here is a photo after the pack out

 

[netagnetym]

Hey guys
I'm new to eastmans and will be heading to 66 in 3 days. I was crusing around looking for anyone talking about the area.
To say I'm chopping at the bitt would be an understatement.
Good luck to everyone hunting mulies in the 3rd and 4th season.

 

[jjh]

I have 19 points as a resident and I'm seriously considering the fourth season in 66. Curious how you guys did last year? It's been a tough winter this year as well so that adds to the debate going on in my head.

 

[HiMtnHnter]

I have 19 points as a resident and I'm seriously considering the fourth season in 66. Curious how you guys did last year? It's been a tough winter this year as well so that adds to the debate going on in my head.

I can't comment on the weather/winter in Gunnison, but I have hunted 66. If I had 19 pp I'd look into possible private land access down low in 66 before I committed. There is quite a bit of public land down low, but getting around can be a pain in the neck because of the fractured nature of the ownership.

 

[jjh]

When did you hunt it? What season? Did you get any private land access? How did you do? Lot's of question, I know, all help is appreciated!

 

[HiMtnHnter]

When did you hunt it? What season? Did you get any private land access? How did you do? Lot's of question, I know, all help is appreciated!

I hunted 2nd in 2014. I hunted down lower a bit and found access to be frustrating and deer to be using private land, or at least having easy access to private. If you get classic weather and a big influx of deer, it could be awesome on public land, but with 19 points I'd want to have some insurance in my pocket. I did not hunt private land. The biggest deer I saw on the hunt spooked onto private land. I end up taking a nice buck on the morning of day 7, the last day I could hunt.

 

[jjh]

Thanks for all the info. I'll start checking with landowners.

 

[packmule]

The problem with getting private is you pretty much have to see the deer and then get access quickly, once they get down low they'll move freely between properties and do a lot of it at night. Then there's the cost factor with many of the landowners knowing the going price of vouchers and will associate those costs to the cost of accessing their properties. What are your expectations?

 

[jjh]

If they want the same price they do for vouchers, I'm out! I've been fortunate to kill a couple of nice deer in my life. If I come out with less than a 190 after burning 19 points, I'll be disappointed. To be clear, I value the quality of a hunt with my family and friends more than anything. I do those hunts every year and bring home meat to fill the freezer. This tag however, I'm looking for a big buck!

 

[HiMtnHnter]

A 190 is a special deer anywhere, and you will need lots of luck to find one. Private land might help, but certainly won't guarantee one. Good luck!

 

[jjh]

I absolutely agree!

 

[packmule]

190 is a pretty tall task. That group of units lately have been good for day dreaming about those kind of deer behind every bush and then settling for a 160-170s type deer. Quality hunt, but you soon realize the deer you're looking for are getting shot before they can hit those numbers. Like most units there'll be a few that meet that requirement, but it can be like finding a needle in a haystack.