How to : Mule Deer hunt?

[ColoradoV]

I agree with what Scott said if you are hunting big mule deer unless you go guided, on private, or in several states/countries a year it is not a easy task..

My advice is to have fun in the process as hunting these animals and getting to spend time in the places they call home is what it is about. If you enjoy the process and able to dedicate time to the craft your chances of finding big mule deer go up significantly.

 

[gonhunting247]

Good thread with great info. I will add this, just go, don't wait! I know it's been said already in this thread, but there is nothing that beats boots on the ground experience. Sure hold out for a great tag somewhere if you want to, but make sure to draw an easy to get tag or buy an OTC tag somewhere each year (at least one). Each year you will gain knowledge that can only be obtained and retained while actually being in the field. Try different techniques and styles of hunting, be proficient with every weapon that you have any interest in using, so you'll be able to adjust to anything the weather or terrain throws at you (adapt and conquer). Each weapon and the different seasons add tons of knowledge to your skills arsenal! I have taken some of my best mulies on hunts that many would pass off as undesirable. These hunts will make you a skilled hunter, that is able to adapt to each situation, as well as, make you physically and mentally prepared for when you do draw your high point tags. These type of hunts are a blast and have the benefit of getting you tons of exposure to deer in pressured situations, they give you the opportunity to get set up and shoot in tough conditions (which can be a huge difference maker) and they have the added bonus of some of the best tasting protein on the planet. I've found over the years that these low tier hunts have been some of my most rewarding and memorable. I can't wait for deer season!

 

[mcseal2]

A little more on shooting.

Check your gun when you arrive at your destination. Do a little research ahead of time and find a place to set up a simple target and shoot over a pack or the truck hood to make sure your scope is on. Be careful to find somewhere that it won't bother anyone and is safe.

If you plan to take an optics tripod see if you can get a shooting rest for it also, or practice using your hand on the top of it to make a rest. Practice this sitting and kneeling with your elbow rested inside your knee. If you have a pack with a solid frame or stout stays, practice shooting sitting with the gun rested on the top of the pack set upright in front of you. If you plan to use shooting sticks or the tripod, practice setting them up quickly until you can do it without looking at them and taking your eyes off the buck. I do this in front of the TV while watching hunting shows with an unloaded rifle. Practice prone resting over the pack also.

Another thing that can be done at home with an unloaded rifle is picking a spot across the room and bringing the gun to your shoulder repeatedly until the crosshairs are always aligned with your eye when the gun hits your shoulder. I have shot a lot of 4.5-14x Leupold scopes with a 19.9ft field of view at 100yds on my rifles, it can be a little tight on close fast shots. Practice helps.

I'm lucky to live where I can have a simple 100yd range in my yard and shoot further within a couple miles. I shoot a lot year round and it has paid off big over the years. Its a skill that needs regular practice to keep at peak level. I notice that my friend I hunt with is slower to get on target now since he lives and works in town than he used to be when we were constantly shooting together. He is still a good shot and accurate, just not quite as fast on target without the constant practice.

Also remember that even the best shots in the world miss. It's easy to say, hard to do but let the misses go and not ruin your concentration or optimism. Being dejected and replaying a miss over and over takes concentration away from the remainder of the hunt. Be careful in shot selection too as was mentioned earlier, a miss is much better than losing a poorly hit animal.

There are so many variables in hunting that are beyond my control, they are part of what makes it so much fun. Shooting is one aspect of hunting we do have control over.

 

[Colorado Cowboy]

Lots of great stuff here! I have hunted mulies for over 60 years and shot a lot of them. You mention you are hunting Wyoming....a big state with lots of different types of country. If you are hunting lower elevation sage brush country with draws, gullies and canyons with a few trees, look for water sources. If you find water with lots of tracks, they are using it regularly and they won't be too far away.

Higher country will require different tactics. There will be more trees, pines and aspen and definitely more water. Get up high and glass the canyons where lots of bedding areas will be.

Above all, look for fresh tracks and fresh droppings. If you spend all day hunting an area and don't find fresh sign, move to another spot. When you start seeing deer, you are in the right area.

Don't get discouraged if you don't find a big buck to start with. Keep after it. Good luck.