I know exactly what your saying. I waited 20 years for a specific Utah Elk tag. Drew the tag in 2021. Hunted 8 days. Saw 1 Bull worthy of my wait. He was 1200 yards away. I never fired a shot in 8 days. Heart broken. I would rather hunt general season tags than LE draw tags now. My friends took off work 8 days with no pay to hunt with me. I'm actually glad I have no chance to ever draw a Utah Elk Limited Entry tag again.
I've recently come across your channel and just want to say Thank You for sharing your knowledge, wisdom, and Honest Truth. I've been in the woods for 40+ years and learned on my own, what You share in these videos. I've picked up some tips from you here and there, that help me to keep the fire burning and looking forward to this upcoming season in Oregon, hopefully I draw. Some of the Best advice that I can give and that you mentioned, is to learn the area that you hunt, and the adjacent units. Get out there as much as possible, take the family camping in the off season and have fun, but learn the area, and know where to go, not searching for where to go. There are water holes, feeding areas, bedding areas and trails, that the deer and elk have used for Years. Thank You Again for Sharing, and God Bless You and Your Family.
I hope you already have the rifle you want for that hunt. Oregon has just passed into "law" a rule enforced by the state police that you have to have a permit to purchase any, and I do mean any firearm. Limited round mags and any other non-serialized part. And it will be illegal to buy a rifle in another state and bring it back. And your local shops are going to obey the state rule or else be closed down by the state. Granted, many sheriffs have said that they will not enforce this law, primarily as a protection for people like us, i.e., hunters.
I’m not a mule deer hunter but I ve been putting in for 17 years. I would really like to shoot a buck over 170. I’m glad I watched the video because I’m going to start hunting mule deer in unit I can draw with no point to learn how to hunt them before burning my points. Thanks again. I’m also a nonresident with 27 year of elk hunting under my belt.
I really appreciate your advice! I've grown up in a very liberal household and was into guns when I was 8. Most kids my age back then would watch cartoons, Saturday morning but I would watch outdoor channel and pretend to hunt big game with with my cap guns (didn't help I lived in the commie state of jersey). I finally got an opportunity to move to the great state of Idaho. I'm finally out and hunting birds and big game, put a lot of miles on my boots up and down mountains. I've been hunting, only for about 6 years but haven't been unsuccessful in bagging me a buck, sometimes I want to give up but than I'm stubborn and don't know what quitting is. Hopefully this year will be better than the last one. Wish me luck. Keep up the great work with these vids!
The crown Jewel out in Oregon is called the metolius unit, The November tag is hard to draw but you can buy the over the counter tag for the unit next to it. I have found great success late season hunting the line of that unit. And yes you find big bucks in the same spot year after year after year.
What a breath of fresh air. No hype, no nonsense advice just real talk from a guy that's been there. I'm the every others year hunter I get to hunt a unit that grows some monster bucks . Unfortunately most of them are never taken legally. Poaching is a huge problem in my area.
I am older than Cliff and was probably hunting Mulies before he was ever born. BUT, I still learned stuff I did not know. For example: I have often tried to find migration routes of Mulies by looking for lots of tracks in the snow during the fall (if there happened to be any), but I uhhhhh....well...did not know that Mulies use the same migration routes the following Spring to return to the high country. That is a MAOR tip. Lot of info in this video. Will watch it a second time later today.
Your videos are absolutely fantastic. I harvested my first mule deer this year otc Idaho with help from your videos and lots of weeks in the mountains. I was also able to find big mature elk on my own. Also an otc Idaho bow hunt. Had great encounters at 100-120 yards just lacked experience to close that one. Here’s to the years to come.
Thank you for this video. It is full of great information for a guy like me. I’m 40 and hunting deer this year for the first time. My Dad died when I was a teen and didn’t get to pass it on to me. I‘ve always been into fishing, hiking, camping, but this year I’m connecting with hunting Mule Deer and it’s all I can think about. You shared so much of what you know and I truly appreciate you for it. Thank you 🙏.
Best video I’ve seen in the last year, no bs. I just left a week long hunt in 44 outside Eagle and can verify, Clint is a machine because that land is the thickest and hardest country to hunt on planet earth. Steepest, gnarliest terrain, we covered 25+ miles packing in and day hunting from camp and didn’t take anything home.
Just want t to say thank you for your information. I have hunted Muley’s before and I’m planning on going back to Colorado again this year. I don’t have a lot of experience hunting them came across your channel. Thank you sir.
I have been fortunate enough to hunt the same area for a couple of years. Most people I talk to don't go where I do and I know where to find the pockets of bucks and usually there is a big one whether it has a big body or nice rack. This year I got my target buck from last year and his antler was way more wicked this year.
Great video Cliff!!! I just found your channel as I have been trying to research an area to hunt in Colorado. Hats off to you for offering advice that’s takes years of hunting experience to acquire. Preserving this sport by educating the average people how to be successful in the field is definitely a worthwhile cause. Thank you!!
I'm doing my first archery hunt this year in AZ. I've been learning so much usable information. Going to start using these tips while practicing my stalking this weekend. Thanks for the wisdom!
I appreciate you comment about deer using the same travel corridors. Likely hunting a unit that I used to hunt a lot, but haven't been there since the 1970s and this will at least give me an idea of where to start.
I have hunted the Pagosa area for years....found your videos and I think I went from a lucky hunter.. I always tag, and work hard at it...but I think I have gained 20 years of knowledge in the last 3 days...thanks...
its funny... I kill all over unit 77 but I have constantly had good luck in a 2 mile area.....my dad included...we probably stumbled on a migration lane..
I’m hunting the rio blanco county this year mule deer and have a bull tag. Never have any luck up there but hopefully with ur video will help me out thanks for posting them
I'm in BC. There's so much info available on US hunting. Over time I'm seeing parallels that I can use here, but your thing down there is way different. For mule deer it's high and very tight mountains where I am. Steep, hard country to hunt. I love this channel and Cliff and appreciate everything I'm learning to try and become a mule deer bow hunter in my area. Many thanks.
Thank you Cliff! This was by far the best information out of all the videos I have pursued watching on RUclips! Can’t wait to cover some more of your content!!
Excellent info Cliff! I think this was some of the most valuable information and straight to the point in successfully patterning good mule deer there is. You insight in hunting descent units year after year instead of trying for the hardest unit to draw is awesome! Thanks!!
Great info and you are right and now I know why. Myself and four of my buddies are 100% on Nov rifle hunt at literally the same spot!! It takes three points to get a tag and we are never disappointed. The hardest part is waiting every day for up to a week for a big one to show!!
Love your plan. I grew up in oregon and saw the migration of mule deer every year 100 to 200 yards past my stand for many years. That time could be weeks apart from year to year but you could count on it.
Hi Cliff, I am taking my son on his first mule deer hunt in Colorado tomorrow he was able to pick up secondary draw tag youth preference. Area has genetics type of small fronts crabby and tall rear forks I have seen the biggest deer of my life crossing hwy south of Pagosa which broke that mokd and had to be 35 inches wide Hope he can hold out for better than Decent Buck lol
Found your channel while researching for an early hunt in Eagle this year. It will be my first time chasing bucks there so I appreciated your local knowledge.
Great stuff Cliff. Like your channel and those topics you've discussed. Many of those tactics you explain are the reason we have very few late hunts here in western Wyoming. Keep seasons during the toughest part of the fall to find big bucks and there will be more older bucks on the landscape come the following year. Every area is different, but you can bet by the last week of October especially when there is already a good blanket of snow, deer will be on the move.
Thanks Aaron! Unfortunately, what your saying is true and I might have been better calling this video "Anyone can hunt huge mule deer, for now" - at least as far as Colorado is concerned. We are starting to have way too much pressure on the deer after Nov 5th. Thanks for the comment.
Awesome video. I have been hunting elk here my whole life but have recently taken up a interest in mule deer brought on by my trail cameras. All this info is super useful and I will be putting it to use starting this spring thanks again for all the time and effort you put into these videos.
Excellent video on trying to find migration routes. Very helpful. Sounds like a spring bear hunt would be a good time to scout migration routes during spring green up.
Good stuff Cliff. Your info applies all across the US not just the West in one form or another. Receivers get better by catching balls, pitchers get better by pitching, hunters get better by being in the woods. None of them get a large degree better by worrying about their uniform or the game they dream of playing.
I have a tag this year for my first time ever this season... It's an early season Oct 6th through 17th It's a very successful unit but not the big harvest records....I'm going to try to put in my time to find where some if them holes are where the big bucks are
Great video! I’ve found a great location where big bucks grow their antlers all summer but disappear two weeks before season still trying to find where they go!
Awesome video Cliff. I live in British Columbia southern interior we have a good mule deer population. Biologists have been following mule deer in this area and collaring them etc to determine migration routes, mortality rates etc. The information corroborates with what you said that they follow distinct patterns and routes year to year. Another couple points in their studies are that mule deer almost always exclusively do or do not migrate (resident vs migratory). Some deer move and some stay and its A or B for that animal. Also, they showed that the migration distances are very variable from 5 kms or less to 80+kms. And finally they showed that mule deer typically have holdover areas where they stay for a period while they migrate, and typically begin their migration end of September. Its called 'southern interior mule deer project', cheers.
I just completed my app. I applied for Unit 44 3rd season with 20 points. Hoping I can gather some information on the unit from your videos. I was just turned on to your content so it's time to pop some corn and settle in for some viewing!
good luck on the hunt! lots of great memories there. There are some huge deer in that country... best genetics in the world. Make sure you get out there and get the lay of the land before your hunt. Good luck!
@@CliffGray I will definitely scout! I’m a new subscriber and getting a feel for your content. Great stuff. I’ll take any info and suggestions you may have. I just don’t know if you’re still guiding and in that case, wouldn’t ask you for any info.
Nothing gets me riled up more than a good ‘ol ‘buck hole’ hahaha. You’re very straight forward and crystal clear and out of nowhere BAM! I get slapped with a “if your fat, buck hole, are you a straight or bent optics guy”…. Hahahahaha I genuinely love the channel
And the family aspect is fantastic. “No! We don’t throw dirt at the camera” was another good one. I’m glad my son isn’t the only one thinking that stuff is fun lolol
Awesome video. I just started hinting mule deer last year. Got a nice one with my bow and now iv got the mule deer fever. Been chasing spring black bear with my bow (turns out sneaking up on a black is hard) but iv seen lots of mule deer out all day just like you mentioned. Im from the south so its all new to me and what iv learned from your videos has been awesome to say the least. Keep then coming and thanks again.
Subscribed here and insta! Came across your channel yesterday. Solid, high value content! Always trying to improve my hunting skill sets and your content has thus far been really solid and different than many other content creators. Really appreciate it. I also live in Vail Valley so if you're ever doing any events in the area I'd love to connect.
If you ever need a 2-legged mule to help pack out, I'd love the opportunity for the learning experience. Second time being drawn, and only a few days left with hardly any sightings.
I appreciate all the good hunting tips its helpful for me being a average deer hunter. My hunt area is D8 in California up around the Domeland wildness area with average about 8% harvesting a deer it's tough area. I've been pretty lucky In the past 7 years I've pulled out 5 bucks 4 with rifle one with bow. Its really getting hard to hunt due to fires,drought conditions and lots of people. I manly hunt 7500 to 8000feet in bow season due to the heat our bow season starts in late August. One thing I'm going to try more this year is glassing more area than I do well thanks for all the good tips take care.
I killed my first backcountry mule deer last year in Idaho and am officially hooked. I wasn’t to spend a lot of time scouting this summer. What are the best dates for spring/summer scouting, specifically in Idaho?
depends on elevation. A couple weeks after the snow starts melting in that area. when you start seeing the green up. That is when you can identify migration corridors.
Awesome video cliff! Me and my dad are headed to the basin for the first time this fall, not 100% sure which elevations to focus on, thinking 9,000-9,500 first week of November but not really sure, not a lot of info out there, most are either about mid October or mid to late November
Lived in the Olympic peninsula and leaned to hunt from Uncle loyde, a Indian shaker minister, and Allen, 3 tours in Vietnam marine. Both could smell deer and elk. They both urinate when getting up from bedding down and about to move out. The more you take time to observe and not move will produce more sightings. Move slowly and stop often. Spend more time observing their habits when pushed by other hunter. They both are creatures of habit and it is passed down generational. Allen had spotted a big black tail buck that would get in with the elk and push for dominance. It was a great area we called the "meat market". It wasn't far from the ocean, a river was it's western boarder and went up hill east to the upper ridge that formed a big I shape the had a logging landing at the end of the South western ridge. On the southern edge of the road dropped into a gully with vine maples. I We would set up along the ridge 100 yards apart and wait and always would bring a buck out of there. We set up down along the flats close to the river, because that big buck would never come up to the ridge, he was just too smart. His signs were everywhere, his hoof was the size of a yearling elk. He just knew we were there and would drop down into a hold up close to the river. Never did get him, but His offspring were large but nothing like him, and rather tasty!
Hey Cliff! Great to see a vid of yours! I saw you sold your guiding business and wanted to wish you the best- but now I get to watch you on youtube, even better- looking forward to seeing more of your content! Dave- former almost bighorn sheep client in S44
Finally a guy who talks sense!....Here is a man who gets it......Although the biggest bucks we have killed are usually in these "unhuntable holes"...lol
I recently came across your videos. You bring great information. While not a great threat to any deer population I still get after it the best I can. I discovered RUclips a bit late. My first hunting videos was Gritty Bowman in 2018. I think an awesome sit down video would be you and Aaron Snyder(Kifaru.) Not that you need Joe Rogan, but I really think it would be a “Rogan worthy” moderated conversation.
Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge on this matter. Helps cut the learning curve some especially for people who are from the east like myself. 🦌
Thank you for a calm, informational, non-broey video. My brother, hunting partner and I have started this adventure. My goal is to kill mature bucks, and this video gave me a ton of ideas. Any chance of a personal message to ask you a couple of questions?
Hey Cliff what are your thoughts when researching Boone and Crockett bucks and the time frame? What years should I look into figuring that the habits of deer haven’t changed too much to factor in things like human population growth? I don’t think the 80s will benefit me but I wonder what your thoughts are on it, thank you very much
There are pockets of genetics that produce big deer… Usually sets of units, a couple birding counties, etc… Outside of areas that have just been completely wiped out or dramatically changed due to something extreme - massive oil and gas infrastructure/Rds put in, entire winter range developed, etc… it’s pretty much the same areas back into the ‘80s. Now, there are a couple areas in B&C that are a little misleading because they are biased by a super well managed ranch or Indian Rez… The Jicarilla in Rio Arriba county NM is a good example… lots of bucks in the books but not an average guy cost hunt. Hope that helps, good luck 👍
when you started talking tactics/strategies you went right to finding them when they get in their hidden spots after shedding velvet. What would you say would be the best tactics to use if hunting sept 2-9th? This will be my first trip out to CO. Also, do you think it would be possible to find muleys & elk in the same areas during that first week of Sept? I was drawn an elk tag & my brother has a deer tag, but we'll be going together. If we can't find them in the same areas, I'd probably need to return my tag, but only have a few days to do so.
That first ten days of September, before they shed velvet, I would glass all the big open country at and above timberline. Big high plateaus, same deal... you can catch them there up until they strip their velvet. Yes, you can find deer and elk in the same areas that time of year. Not uncommon at all.
I hope people heard what you said at the 4-minute mark. I wasted over 20 years building mule deer points and not hunting them. Now I have a ton of points and afraid to draw a tag because I don’t have a clue how to hunt them. I won’t get that time back.
I wonder if most of the boone and crocket mule deer were shot in the 60's during rifle rut hunts. Most hunts are now in October. Will they still be in the same area?
😁 I am a first time listener! 🙂 What is the widest and largest mule deer that you have ever seen alive? 🦌 Also, what about body weight? 🐷 I am from Montana, so I am Not Hunting Your State, Only Curious as go "How Big" they get where you live? 🤷♂️ I am an older fella, so I know about people like Kirk Darner and that Colorado produces some huge deer! 🧐 But, I have my own "spots" and the key is learning the area and movement patterns really well and hunting real hard - because where they are is "Mountain Goat" territory for the ones I am after! 🤗 A "lone wolf" deer hunter after a "lone wolf" (bachelor or bachelor herd deer) deer or one one with only a small herd of does! 🐺
Curious if you rent out any horses or know anyone that does in the Gunnison area, we have hunted 54 on and off about 20 years. We used to get stock from John Ferro but I believe he is done now from what I heard and it’s a big pain hauling my own stock out from the midwest. Appreciate any advice- we actually put in for another unit this year because I couldn’t find any stock to rent near Gunnison, sombrero doesn’t deliver there.
Hi Bobby, don't know anyone. Renting horses has become much harder over the years - and the Sombrero folks have cut back everywhere, even to outfitters. With the feed costs, liability, etc... folks just don't want to deal with renting to folks in most places. Wish I could be more help. thanks
My favorite topic in the entire world…After my daughter and wife anyway! On to the video! EDIT: Great all around advice. I think your point on being a savvy, patience glasser is one of the most important “on the ground” points. Just out of curiosity, what are your favorite mulies cartridges?
Thanks man. Glad the video was helpful. I primarily hunt them with the same rifles and loads I use for elk. mid weight 7mm mag and 308 rounds. Reloads. Mule deer aren't the toughest animal around.
@@CliffGray You’re right, mulies aren’t hard to kill. It surprises me the number of people who use a 300 Win Mag or equivalent when a good 7 mm Mag is more than enough. I’m looking forward to more videos.
Any feedback on behavior/tactics after Nov 15? In Washington State the only OTC tags available are usually end of Nov. to early Dec. Typically post rut.
Hey Anthony, our rut usually runs through end of November. I understand yours ends sooner. To be honest, I've never hunted them post-rut. However, I do observe them while we are lion hunting - I notice that old bucks are kind of like mature bull elk, post-rut. They find a secluded spot to hangout - in our country its usually up higher than where all the does are hanging. The fact they are alone and higher - unfortunately makes them fairly susceptible to becoming lion kills also. I hope that helps! Wish I had more knowledge for you on that front.
Thanks for making it a point to "keep shit to your self" and to understand it's not just about "keeping your spot", it's about being a good hunter and knowing how conservation works because ethics are what make good hunters, no matter the animal your after...I do have a question about the transition's from summer to fall, and fall to winter and that is do you seem to find deer using the same or about the same elevation... And once you've located a sweet spot in elevation have you noticed if they drop or gain elevation based on weather or hunting pressure. I'm currently building a custom Mauser rifle that I plan on taking on a mule deer hunt and I will be doing it OTC DIY (no piles of money here) in Idaho or Colorado next year most likely a late late season and I've hunted the units I plan on going back to but never past mid October.
Hi Norman, if I understand you question - the main difference you see based on conditions (weather and snow) in our country is that deer start moving earlier. Some years, if we get early heavy snow, deer will be moving hard by the second week of Oct. Withholding extreme weather, they hold to the pattern I mention in the video - not moving much until Oct 20-25th. Hope that helps. Good luck on your hunts. Thanks.
Subscribed! Super great video Cliff. Appreciate you sharing yer knowledge and experience on these Muleys. I'm a Native Oregonian and mostly know Blacktail. Few years ago a buddy and I went to CO for muleys around Eagle actually, but struck out. Very warm weather on a 3rd season rifle tag. Still had a great time, just couldn't spot up a buck big enough to pull the trigger on. Just found out my 16 year old son drew a 2nd rifle for this season coming up in CO!!! Really excited for him. It's actually close to #44 where you live. Is there a way to email you or PM you for some advise on that unit/tag? Thank you so much for the tips and advise!
Thank you so much for your extremely informative video. I am new to western hunting since I grew up in Missouri, but I want to hunt a new species of animal this fall. What species and state would you recommend to start in? I was thinking maybe a cow elk hunt in Colorado, or mule deer in Colorado/Wyoming. I am in it for the experience and meat verses any kind of trophy.
All of those are good, also look into doe antelope in WY. Call the fish and game up there, they can tell you if that would be a possibility. Good luck 👍
If you are hunting migratory deer, yes. Keep in mind that timing matters… if it’s two or three weeks after the green up, the deer may have already come back through.
If only hunters would stop shooting up-and-coming bucks w/the potential to be real whoppers. I haven't hunted deer for many years, but still try to find monster mulie sheds (hasn't happened yet, although I've found a few respectable ones). I lived in Grand Junction for four years, and in hindsight, think that was my best opportunity to find "holy grail" mule deer sheds. I think that (impenetrable) steep slope, Colorado oakbrush is where such sheds lay. BTW, your baby is as about as adorable as they come.
🤔 The largest mule deer (rack wise) that I have seen was with a couple of normal sized does (may have been 50", but was only about 175 to 200 lbs in weight)! 🤯 The second largest mule deer that I saw was with 6 does and a very large lead doe! I had hunted that deer for 4 years (shot a "smaller" 180" class deer that was occasionally hanging with him that field dressed out at 340 lbs)! 😁 Reporedly, some one with a guide shot the bigger deer, which field dressed at 475 lbs and was over 40" wide (this deer in rut had a neck - no neck, like a linebacker - that looked like a big horn sheep in rut)! 😭 So, my question to you is this - do you look for very large lead doe(s) or not??? 🤔
I’m not so much interested in the trophy although I wouldn’t pass one up, I’m more interested in a big bodied deer that’ll fill the freezer. I usually scout for mule deer while I’m archery elk hunting in September.
When gauging size, just look at the hand size compared to the human head size. Your hands should not be bigger than your head, and when they are in the picture, the animal you are holding is probably only half as big as it looks.
He’s either a hell of a hunter or has deep pockets … guys don’t need to be good hunters in todays world if they got money …. Guys like you take them out and help them kill deer they did not have to earn like the rest of us
![Megan Thee Stallion - Bigger In Texas [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QxTkZTLWdo4/mqdefault.jpg)
I know exactly what your saying. I waited 20 years for a specific Utah Elk tag. Drew the tag in 2021. Hunted 8 days. Saw 1 Bull worthy of my wait. He was 1200 yards away. I never fired a shot in 8 days. Heart broken. I would rather hunt general season tags than LE draw tags now. My friends took off work 8 days with no pay to hunt with me. I'm actually glad I have no chance to ever draw a Utah Elk Limited Entry tag again.
Ha! yeah this kind of thing happens all the time. No worries, just strategize to hunt areas every year! thanks for the comment.
aren't success rates 90%?
@@deerloversheridan3038 Not in 2021 they weren't. Their was 44 tags in my unit. I saw 2 Bull's taken. I would not have shot either.
@@nathanadams8207 80% unit??
@@deerloversheridan3038 are you asking what Elk unit I hunted in 2021.
I've recently come across your channel and just want to say Thank You for sharing your knowledge, wisdom, and Honest Truth. I've been in the woods for 40+ years and learned on my own, what You share in these videos. I've picked up some tips from you here and there, that help me to keep the fire burning and looking forward to this upcoming season in Oregon, hopefully I draw. Some of the Best advice that I can give and that you mentioned, is to learn the area that you hunt, and the adjacent units. Get out there as much as possible, take the family camping in the off season and have fun, but learn the area, and know where to go, not searching for where to go. There are water holes, feeding areas, bedding areas and trails, that the deer and elk have used for Years. Thank You Again for Sharing, and God Bless You and Your Family.
Really appreciate the comment and support! Great advice, too. Thanks so much
I hope you already have the rifle you want for that hunt. Oregon has just passed into "law" a rule enforced by the state police that you have to have a permit to purchase any, and I do mean any firearm. Limited round mags and any other non-serialized part. And it will be illegal to buy a rifle in another state and bring it back. And your local shops are going to obey the state rule or else be closed down by the state. Granted, many sheriffs have said that they will not enforce this law, primarily as a protection for people like us, i.e., hunters.
I’m not a mule deer hunter but I ve been putting in for 17 years. I would really like to shoot a buck over 170. I’m glad I watched the video because I’m going to start hunting mule deer in unit I can draw with no point to learn how to hunt them before burning my points. Thanks again. I’m also a nonresident with 27 year of elk hunting under my belt.
Good deal 👍 glad the video was helpful
I really appreciate your advice! I've grown up in a very liberal household and was into guns when I was 8. Most kids my age back then would watch cartoons, Saturday morning but I would watch outdoor channel and pretend to hunt big game with with my cap guns (didn't help I lived in the commie state of jersey). I finally got an opportunity to move to the great state of Idaho. I'm finally out and hunting birds and big game, put a lot of miles on my boots up and down mountains. I've been hunting, only for about 6 years but haven't been unsuccessful in bagging me a buck, sometimes I want to give up but than I'm stubborn and don't know what quitting is. Hopefully this year will be better than the last one. Wish me luck. Keep up the great work with these vids!
Good luck Pete! thanks
The crown Jewel out in Oregon is called the metolius unit, The November tag is hard to draw but you can buy the over the counter tag for the unit next to it. I have found great success late season hunting the line of that unit.
And yes you find big bucks in the same spot year after year after year.
What a breath of fresh air. No hype, no nonsense advice just real talk from a guy that's been there. I'm the every others year hunter I get to hunt a unit that grows some monster bucks . Unfortunately most of them are never taken legally. Poaching is a huge problem in my area.
Thanks William. Appreciate the support and comment! Bummer on the poaching deal.
I am older than Cliff and was probably hunting Mulies before he was ever born. BUT, I still learned stuff I did not know. For example: I have often tried to find migration routes of Mulies by looking for lots of tracks in the snow during the fall (if there happened to be any), but I uhhhhh....well...did not know that Mulies use the same migration routes the following Spring to return to the high country. That is a MAOR tip. Lot of info in this video. Will watch it a second time later today.
Huge compliment! Thanks.
Your videos are absolutely fantastic. I harvested my first mule deer this year otc Idaho with help from your videos and lots of weeks in the mountains. I was also able to find big mature elk on my own. Also an otc Idaho bow hunt. Had great encounters at 100-120 yards just lacked experience to close that one. Here’s to the years to come.
Thank you for this video. It is full of great information for a guy like me. I’m 40 and hunting deer this year for the first time. My Dad died when I was a teen and didn’t get to pass it on to me. I‘ve always been into fishing, hiking, camping, but this year I’m connecting with hunting Mule Deer and it’s all I can think about. You shared so much of what you know and I truly appreciate you for it. Thank you 🙏.
Best video I’ve seen in the last year, no bs. I just left a week long hunt in 44 outside Eagle and can verify, Clint is a machine because that land is the thickest and hardest country to hunt on planet earth. Steepest, gnarliest terrain, we covered 25+ miles packing in and day hunting from camp and didn’t take anything home.
thanks man! that is beautiful country though!
Just want t to say thank you for your information. I have hunted Muley’s before and I’m planning on going back to Colorado again this year. I don’t have a lot of experience hunting them came across your channel. Thank you sir.
Good luck Jeff!
I have been fortunate enough to hunt the same area for a couple of years. Most people I talk to don't go where I do and I know where to find the pockets of bucks and usually there is a big one whether it has a big body or nice rack. This year I got my target buck from last year and his antler was way more wicked this year.
nice. Congrats on the buck!
Great video Cliff!!! I just found your channel as I have been trying to research an area to hunt in Colorado. Hats off to you for offering advice that’s takes years of hunting experience to acquire. Preserving this sport by educating the average people how to be successful in the field is definitely a worthwhile cause. Thank you!!
👍👍👍
I'm doing my first archery hunt this year in AZ. I've been learning so much usable information. Going to start using these tips while practicing my stalking this weekend. Thanks for the wisdom!
Good luck man!
I appreciate you comment about deer using the same travel corridors. Likely hunting a unit that I used to hunt a lot, but haven't been there since the 1970s and this will at least give me an idea of where to start.
for sure! if those corridors haven't been messed up with development or tons of pressure, I bet you can pickup where you left off. Good luck!
I have hunted the Pagosa area for years....found your videos and I think I went from a lucky hunter.. I always tag, and work hard at it...but I think I have gained 20 years of knowledge in the last 3 days...thanks...
its funny... I kill all over unit 77 but I have constantly had good luck in a 2 mile area.....my dad included...we probably stumbled on a migration lane..
Good chance. Those deer that all winter south of you on the Southern Ute are pretty darn migratory. Good luck this Fall!
I’m hunting the rio blanco county this year mule deer and have a bull tag. Never have any luck up there but hopefully with ur video will help me out thanks for posting them
I'm in BC. There's so much info available on US hunting. Over time I'm seeing parallels that I can use here, but your thing down there is way different. For mule deer it's high and very tight mountains where I am. Steep, hard country to hunt. I love this channel and Cliff and appreciate everything I'm learning to try and become a mule deer bow hunter in my area. Many thanks.
thanks Dom! glad the videos are helpful
Thank you Cliff! This was by far the best information out of all the videos I have pursued watching on RUclips! Can’t wait to cover some more of your content!!
Really appreciate the support for the video. Glad you found is useful! thanks
Excellent info Cliff! I think this was some of the most valuable information and straight to the point in successfully patterning good mule deer there is. You insight in hunting descent units year after year instead of trying for the hardest unit to draw is awesome! Thanks!!
glad it was helpful! appreciate the support. thanks
Great info and you are right and now I know why. Myself and four of my buddies are 100% on Nov rifle hunt at literally the same spot!! It takes three points to get a tag and we are never disappointed. The hardest part is waiting every day for up to a week for a big one to show!!
Good deal!
Love your plan. I grew up in oregon and saw the migration of mule deer every year 100 to 200 yards past my stand for many years. That time could be weeks apart from year to year but you could count on it.
Hi Cliff,
I am taking my son on his first mule deer hunt in Colorado tomorrow he was able to pick up secondary draw tag youth preference.
Area has genetics type of small fronts crabby and tall rear forks
I have seen the biggest deer of my life crossing hwy south of Pagosa which broke that mokd and had to be 35 inches wide
Hope he can hold out for better than Decent Buck lol
Good luck!
Found your channel while researching for an early hunt in Eagle this year. It will be my first time chasing bucks there so I appreciated your local knowledge.
Good luck! 👍
Great stuff Cliff. Like your channel and those topics you've discussed. Many of those tactics you explain are the reason we have very few late hunts here in western Wyoming. Keep seasons during the toughest part of the fall to find big bucks and there will be more older bucks on the landscape come the following year. Every area is different, but you can bet by the last week of October especially when there is already a good blanket of snow, deer will be on the move.
Thanks Aaron! Unfortunately, what your saying is true and I might have been better calling this video "Anyone can hunt huge mule deer, for now" - at least as far as Colorado is concerned. We are starting to have way too much pressure on the deer after Nov 5th. Thanks for the comment.
Awesome video. I have been hunting elk here my whole life but have recently taken up a interest in mule deer brought on by my trail cameras. All this info is super useful and I will be putting it to use starting this spring thanks again for all the time and effort you put into these videos.
Excellent video on trying to find migration routes. Very helpful. Sounds like a spring bear hunt would be a good time to scout migration routes during spring green up.
Thanks for showing the examples of good browse its helpful to actually see that
Good stuff Cliff. Your info applies all across the US not just the West in one form or another. Receivers get better by catching balls, pitchers get better by pitching, hunters get better by being in the woods. None of them get a large degree better by worrying about their uniform or the game they dream of playing.
👍very true! Thanks
I have a tag this year for my first time ever this season... It's an early season Oct 6th through 17th
It's a very successful unit but not the big harvest records....I'm going to try to put in my time to find where some if them holes are where the big bucks are
Great video! I’ve found a great location where big bucks grow their antlers all summer but disappear two weeks before season still trying to find where they go!
Awesome video Cliff. I live in British Columbia southern interior we have a good mule deer population. Biologists have been following mule deer in this area and collaring them etc to determine migration routes, mortality rates etc. The information corroborates with what you said that they follow distinct patterns and routes year to year. Another couple points in their studies are that mule deer almost always exclusively do or do not migrate (resident vs migratory). Some deer move and some stay and its A or B for that animal. Also, they showed that the migration distances are very variable from 5 kms or less to 80+kms. And finally they showed that mule deer typically have holdover areas where they stay for a period while they migrate, and typically begin their migration end of September. Its called 'southern interior mule deer project', cheers.
Thanks for calling out the Instascamers !
I just completed my app. I applied for Unit 44 3rd season with 20 points. Hoping I can gather some information on the unit from your videos. I was just turned on to your content so it's time to pop some corn and settle in for some viewing!
good luck on the hunt! lots of great memories there. There are some huge deer in that country... best genetics in the world. Make sure you get out there and get the lay of the land before your hunt. Good luck!
@@CliffGray I will definitely scout! I’m a new subscriber and getting a feel for your content. Great stuff. I’ll take any info and suggestions you may have. I just don’t know if you’re still guiding and in that case, wouldn’t ask you for any info.
Nothing gets me riled up more than a good ‘ol ‘buck hole’ hahaha. You’re very straight forward and crystal clear and out of nowhere BAM! I get slapped with a “if your fat, buck hole, are you a straight or bent optics guy”…. Hahahahaha
I genuinely love the channel
And the family aspect is fantastic. “No! We don’t throw dirt at the camera” was another good one. I’m glad my son isn’t the only one thinking that stuff is fun lolol
Ha! glad you enjoy the videos John!
Thanks for sharing the knowledge! My California mule deer don't really migrate. Swapping strategy to hike in remote scouting already for the fall
Hunting mule deer for the first time this fall, PA whitetail is my bread and butter
Awesome video. I just started hinting mule deer last year. Got a nice one with my bow and now iv got the mule deer fever. Been chasing spring black bear with my bow (turns out sneaking up on a black is hard) but iv seen lots of mule deer out all day just like you mentioned. Im from the south so its all new to me and what iv learned from your videos has been awesome to say the least. Keep then coming and thanks again.
Thanks man! sounds like you are stuck mule deer hunting now... got the bug! good luck this fall
This is some of the most useful and precise hunting information I've come across. Your information and videos are much appreciated, keep them coming!
Thanks! will do
This is Gold!! Thanks brother I'm gonna put all this information to good use!
Good deal. Good luck! 👍
Subscribed here and insta! Came across your channel yesterday. Solid, high value content! Always trying to improve my hunting skill sets and your content has thus far been really solid and different than many other content creators. Really appreciate it. I also live in Vail Valley so if you're ever doing any events in the area I'd love to connect.
Good deal! Glad you are finding the videos helpful
If you ever need a 2-legged mule to help pack out, I'd love the opportunity for the learning experience. Second time being drawn, and only a few days left with hardly any sightings.
I appreciate all the good hunting tips its helpful for me being a average deer hunter. My hunt area is D8 in California up around the Domeland wildness area with average about 8% harvesting a deer it's tough area. I've been pretty lucky In the past 7 years I've pulled out 5 bucks 4 with rifle one with bow. Its really getting hard to hunt due to fires,drought conditions and lots of people. I manly hunt 7500 to 8000feet in bow season due to the heat our bow season starts in late August. One thing I'm going to try more this year is glassing more area than I do well thanks for all the good tips take care.
I killed my first backcountry mule deer last year in Idaho and am officially hooked. I wasn’t to spend a lot of time scouting this summer.
What are the best dates for spring/summer scouting, specifically in Idaho?
depends on elevation. A couple weeks after the snow starts melting in that area. when you start seeing the green up. That is when you can identify migration corridors.
@@CliffGray Thanks for the reply. I'll put it to good use!
Awesome video cliff! Me and my dad are headed to the basin for the first time this fall, not 100% sure which elevations to focus on, thinking 9,000-9,500 first week of November but not really sure, not a lot of info out there, most are either about mid October or mid to late November
good luck!
Lived in the Olympic peninsula and leaned to hunt from Uncle loyde, a Indian shaker minister, and Allen, 3 tours in Vietnam marine.
Both could smell deer and elk. They both urinate when getting up from bedding down and about to move out.
The more you take time to observe and not move will produce more sightings. Move slowly and stop often.
Spend more time observing their habits when pushed by other hunter.
They both are creatures of habit and it is passed down generational.
Allen had spotted a big black tail buck that would get in with the elk and push for dominance. It was a great area we called the "meat market". It wasn't far from the ocean, a river was it's western boarder and went up hill east to the upper ridge that formed a big I shape the had a logging landing at the end of the South western ridge. On the southern edge of the road dropped into a gully with vine maples. I
We would set up along the ridge 100 yards apart and wait and always would bring a buck out of there. We set up down along the flats close to the river, because that big buck would never come up to the ridge, he was just too smart. His signs were everywhere, his hoof was the size of a yearling elk. He just knew we were there and would drop down into a hold up close to the river. Never did get him, but His offspring were large but nothing like him, and rather tasty!
Another great one Clif!! Good job!!
Glad you enjoyed it! thanks
Awesome info. I truly value your videos and the information you share. Best western hunting info on YT.
Really appreciate the comment man! glad they are useful to you.
Hey Cliff! Great to see a vid of yours! I saw you sold your guiding business and wanted to wish you the best- but now I get to watch you on youtube, even better- looking forward to seeing more of your content! Dave- former almost bighorn sheep client in S44
Thanks Dave!
Finally a guy who talks sense!....Here is a man who gets it......Although the biggest bucks we have killed are usually in these "unhuntable holes"...lol
I recently came across your videos. You bring great information. While not a great threat to any deer population I still get after it the best I can. I discovered RUclips a bit late. My first hunting videos was Gritty Bowman in 2018. I think an awesome sit down video would be you and Aaron Snyder(Kifaru.) Not that you need Joe Rogan, but I really think it would be a “Rogan worthy” moderated conversation.
Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge on this matter. Helps cut the learning curve some especially for people who are from the east like myself. 🦌
For sure. Glad the videos are helpful to you! thanks
Thankyou Cliff this is such a great video.
Thanks man! Glad it was helpful.
Thanks Ckiff
Great information on strategies for mule deer, it gives me markers to look at, thanks
Good luck! Glad it was helpful
Thank you for a calm, informational, non-broey video. My brother, hunting partner and I have started this adventure. My goal is to kill mature bucks, and this video gave me a ton of ideas. Any chance of a personal message to ask you a couple of questions?
Thanks! Of course - your best bet for a direct question is to dm me on Instagram. You can also email me at the email on the channel’s about page.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge! I’d be interested in a book or series of some of your top guiding stories
Dude this info is super helpful, thank you.
Hey Cliff what are your thoughts when researching Boone and Crockett bucks and the time frame? What years should I look into figuring that the habits of deer haven’t changed too much to factor in things like human population growth? I don’t think the 80s will benefit me but I wonder what your thoughts are on it, thank you very much
There are pockets of genetics that produce big deer… Usually sets of units, a couple birding counties, etc…
Outside of areas that have just been completely wiped out or dramatically changed due to something extreme - massive oil and gas infrastructure/Rds put in, entire winter range developed, etc… it’s pretty much the same areas back into the ‘80s. Now, there are a couple areas in B&C that are a little misleading because they are biased by a super well managed ranch or Indian Rez… The Jicarilla in Rio Arriba county NM is a good example… lots of bucks in the books but not an average guy cost hunt.
Hope that helps, good luck 👍
@@CliffGray thank you very much Cliff
when you started talking tactics/strategies you went right to finding them when they get in their hidden spots after shedding velvet. What would you say would be the best tactics to use if hunting sept 2-9th? This will be my first trip out to CO.
Also, do you think it would be possible to find muleys & elk in the same areas during that first week of Sept? I was drawn an elk tag & my brother has a deer tag, but we'll be going together. If we can't find them in the same areas, I'd probably need to return my tag, but only have a few days to do so.
That first ten days of September, before they shed velvet, I would glass all the big open country at and above timberline. Big high plateaus, same deal... you can catch them there up until they strip their velvet. Yes, you can find deer and elk in the same areas that time of year. Not uncommon at all.
I hope people heard what you said at the 4-minute mark. I wasted over 20 years building mule deer points and not hunting them. Now I have a ton of points and afraid to draw a tag because I don’t have a clue how to hunt them. I won’t get that time back.
I wonder if most of the boone and crocket mule deer were shot in the 60's during rifle rut hunts. Most hunts are now in October. Will they still be in the same area?
Great video brother. You're a good man to share this information. Thank you
For sure man, glad it is helpful.
Very informative thank you
😁 I am a first time listener! 🙂 What is the widest and largest mule deer that you have ever seen alive? 🦌 Also, what about body weight? 🐷 I am from Montana, so I am Not Hunting Your State, Only Curious as go "How Big" they get where you live? 🤷♂️ I am an older fella, so I know about people like Kirk Darner and that Colorado produces some huge deer! 🧐 But, I have my own "spots" and the key is learning the area and movement patterns really well and hunting real hard - because where they are is "Mountain Goat" territory for the ones I am after! 🤗 A "lone wolf" deer hunter after a "lone wolf" (bachelor or bachelor herd deer) deer or one one with only a small herd of does! 🐺
best channel, info we all want. thank you
I appreciate that man! thanks
Man, Great Job!!! Not full of Fluff just great useable info. Appreciate your hard work.
Thanks!
This video just flipped everything I thought I knew about killing mule deer. I guess I'm going to burn up that big pile of points I've been saving!
Awesome content. Great channel.
Curious if you rent out any horses or know anyone that does in the Gunnison area, we have hunted 54 on and off about 20 years. We used to get stock from John Ferro but I believe he is done now from what I heard and it’s a big pain hauling my own stock out from the midwest. Appreciate any advice- we actually put in for another unit this year because I couldn’t find any stock to rent near Gunnison, sombrero doesn’t deliver there.
Hi Bobby, don't know anyone. Renting horses has become much harder over the years - and the Sombrero folks have cut back everywhere, even to outfitters. With the feed costs, liability, etc... folks just don't want to deal with renting to folks in most places. Wish I could be more help. thanks
My favorite topic in the entire world…After my daughter and wife anyway! On to the video!
EDIT: Great all around advice. I think your point on being a savvy, patience glasser is one of the most important “on the ground” points. Just out of curiosity, what are your favorite mulies cartridges?
Thanks man. Glad the video was helpful.
I primarily hunt them with the same rifles and loads I use for elk. mid weight 7mm mag and 308 rounds. Reloads. Mule deer aren't the toughest animal around.
@@CliffGray You’re right, mulies aren’t hard to kill. It surprises me the number of people who use a 300 Win Mag or equivalent when a good 7 mm Mag is more than enough. I’m looking forward to more videos.
Any feedback on behavior/tactics after Nov 15? In Washington State the only OTC tags available are usually end of Nov. to early Dec. Typically post rut.
Hey Anthony, our rut usually runs through end of November. I understand yours ends sooner. To be honest, I've never hunted them post-rut. However, I do observe them while we are lion hunting - I notice that old bucks are kind of like mature bull elk, post-rut. They find a secluded spot to hangout - in our country its usually up higher than where all the does are hanging. The fact they are alone and higher - unfortunately makes them fairly susceptible to becoming lion kills also.
I hope that helps! Wish I had more knowledge for you on that front.
Thanks for making it a point to "keep shit to your self" and to understand it's not just about "keeping your spot", it's about being a good hunter and knowing how conservation works because ethics are what make good hunters, no matter the animal your after...I do have a question about the transition's from summer to fall, and fall to winter and that is do you seem to find deer using the same or about the same elevation... And once you've located a sweet spot in elevation have you noticed if they drop or gain elevation based on weather or hunting pressure. I'm currently building a custom Mauser rifle that I plan on taking on a mule deer hunt and I will be doing it OTC DIY (no piles of money here) in Idaho or Colorado next year most likely a late late season and I've hunted the units I plan on going back to but never past mid October.
Hi Norman, if I understand you question - the main difference you see based on conditions (weather and snow) in our country is that deer start moving earlier. Some years, if we get early heavy snow, deer will be moving hard by the second week of Oct. Withholding extreme weather, they hold to the pattern I mention in the video - not moving much until Oct 20-25th. Hope that helps. Good luck on your hunts. Thanks.
How do I go about putting in for muledeer tags and know what units are low
Checkout services like GoHunt… they simplify the research.
Subscribed! Super great video Cliff. Appreciate you sharing yer knowledge and experience on these Muleys. I'm a Native Oregonian and mostly know Blacktail. Few years ago a buddy and I went to CO for muleys around Eagle actually, but struck out. Very warm weather on a 3rd season rifle tag. Still had a great time, just couldn't spot up a buck big enough to pull the trigger on. Just found out my 16 year old son drew a 2nd rifle for this season coming up in CO!!! Really excited for him. It's actually close to #44 where you live. Is there a way to email you or PM you for some advise on that unit/tag? Thank you so much for the tips and advise!
Hey Ryan, if you go to the info/about page of the channel, use that email. If I put contact info in comments, I get a bunch of spam. Thanks
Thank you so much for your extremely informative video. I am new to western hunting since I grew up in Missouri, but I want to hunt a new species of animal this fall. What species and state would you recommend to start in? I was thinking maybe a cow elk hunt in Colorado, or mule deer in Colorado/Wyoming. I am in it for the experience and meat verses any kind of trophy.
All of those are good, also look into doe antelope in WY. Call the fish and game up there, they can tell you if that would be a possibility. Good luck 👍
Thanks! Your wealth of information has truly helped me prepare, and practice for western hunts. I am very grateful I found your channel.
Great info. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! thanks
See large deer every year! I Just look out my kitchen window in Cedar City, Utah.
So would it be safe to say that if I do not see many deer in the spring that they will likely not be there in the fall?
If you are hunting migratory deer, yes. Keep in mind that timing matters… if it’s two or three weeks after the green up, the deer may have already come back through.
One day would love to hire your services for hunting
I love hunting and eating mule deer
More Muley videos!!!
U got it! Haha
Point system eh? Legal, not buy the tags, or limited entry lottery here in bc. Trying to understand this point system
If only hunters would stop shooting up-and-coming bucks w/the potential to be real whoppers. I haven't hunted deer for many years, but still try to find monster mulie sheds (hasn't happened yet, although I've found a few respectable ones). I lived in Grand Junction for four years, and in hindsight, think that was my best opportunity to find "holy grail" mule deer sheds. I think that (impenetrable) steep slope, Colorado oakbrush is where such sheds lay. BTW, your baby is as about as adorable as they come.
🤔 The largest mule deer (rack wise) that I have seen was with a couple of normal sized does (may have been 50", but was only about 175 to 200 lbs in weight)! 🤯 The second largest mule deer that I saw was with 6 does and a very large lead doe! I had hunted that deer for 4 years (shot a "smaller" 180" class deer that was occasionally hanging with him that field dressed out at 340 lbs)! 😁 Reporedly, some one with a guide shot the bigger deer, which field dressed at 475 lbs and was over 40" wide (this deer in rut had a neck - no neck, like a linebacker - that looked like a big horn sheep in rut)! 😭 So, my question to you is this - do you look for very large lead doe(s) or not??? 🤔
I’m not so much interested in the trophy although I wouldn’t pass one up, I’m more interested in a big bodied deer that’ll fill the freezer. I usually scout for mule deer while I’m archery elk hunting in September.
Totally understand that.
@@CliffGray Really good video @Cliff
The big reason many fail at hunting is they have no patience,they give up early.
Yes
Any relation to Zane?
When gauging size, just look at the hand size compared to the human head size. Your hands should not be bigger than your head, and when they are in the picture, the animal you are holding is probably only half as big as it looks.
I like it man! Great way to get an idea of what’s really going on in a picture 👍
He’s either a hell of a hunter or has deep pockets … guys don’t need to be good hunters in todays world if they got money …. Guys like you take them out and help them kill deer they did not have to earn like the rest of us
Points? Sounds lame.