Third season mule deer units 54, 551 or 30?

[provoflyfisher]

Hello, I am planning on hunting mule deer in Colorado in 2016 or 2017 with my son and we both currently have 7 points. Looking for a 3rd season rifle hunt and narrowed it down to a couple units. Does anyone have any insight on units 54, 551 or 30? It appears we could draw some of these units in 2016 or 2017 even if points jump a little with the better 3rd season dates. Would like to look over a good number of deer and hopefully find some 170+ bucks. Any help from locals or hunters that have been in these units over the past couple years would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Umpqua Hunter]

I believe last year that Unit 30 took 7 (100%) draw, 54 took 6 (21% draw) but 9 the year before (the point dip most likely caused by the new 4th seasons in the Gunnison area last year) and 551 had only 7% draw at 7 points. My guess is you have very little wiggle room on these units with 7 points. Just food for thought.

 

[Ridgerunner]

I agree, I'd almost be looking at units that were only 5 points to draw last year, with the later dates I think most units will see a minimum of 1 point of creep, if not 2.

 

[provoflyfisher]

Thanks for the info. Umpqua. Both unit 30 and 551 took 8 to have a good chance at the tag (~80% odds) and with the later dates it might take 9 in 2016. I guess I am curious to get any inside information on the units to decide if waiting another year is worth it or if I should change strategy and focus on a 4-6 point unit and try to pull the tag next year. I have been in unit 40 and could probably pull a tag or two, but all the private property has me worried.

 

[cmbbulldog]

I would probably just try and pull the tag next year. Lots of good units you can draw with the points you have.

 

[hoshour]

30. Right now it is a better unit for the price. The other areas have not gotten back up to their reputations.