OTC August Mule deer hunt.

[akrem44]

I am heading to Arizona for a early season otc mule deer hunt and was looking into the 17 and 18 a and b units. This will be my first year hunting mule deer in Arizona and am looking for any insight on the ins and outs of hunting in August for mule deer or past success in this time of year. Anything and everything would be greatly appreciated.

 

[micropterus79]

Don't know the particulars of the region except that, in August, it will be hot (probably). Do the best you can to prepare for hot weather with the real chance of cooler temps if the monsoons are still active or we get a front to move in, especially if you're hunting the higher country of those units.

Keep an eye out for any forest road closures you might be wanting to travel; they tend to wash out and close that time of year.

BTW, when I say hot, I mean 80's-90's, maybe warmer depending on where you're hunting.

 

[goinhuntn]

Those units are hot in august!! We hunt javelina in 17b in January it is some rough country make sure you have a pair of snake boots , you will definitely run into some rattlers. These are tough units to hunt for deer, but they are in there. Look for water sources. If you are looking for a trophy hunt these are not the units to hunt. Make sure you have plenty of drinking water & I do mean plenty of water. I hunted unit 16 for deer above Wikiup elevation was around 5500 temp in August was 107, this was couple of years ago so best advice be prepared for the heat!!

 

[UB-AZ]

As it was stated... you can expect temps in the high 90's and into the 100's. Water sources are a good place to start. Problem this year is there is water just about everywhere. It may dry out or it may continue to rain....who knows. For deer glass them up in the morning and follow to their bedding areas. Then try a stalk.

For the units mentioned I would recommend a lion tag, as well as a bear tag if hunting in 17/18B. I don't think 18A opens up until Octobert....double check that. Only because if you hunt over a water source you have a good chance of getting one of these animals to come in as well.

 

[BOHNTR]

Hunt on top of the rim and you'll be cooler and still see some animals.