Deer Hunting
Casper
After undergoing a long-term gradual decline since the early 2000s, mule deer populations in the Casper Region experienced a period of much needed growth beginning in 2013 due to excellent fawn production. That growth has now slowed with declining fawn recruitment in 2018, and mule deer numbers appear to have stabilized. Although mule deer populations remain below established management objectives in most herds, they are significantly improved compared to much of the past decade. Overall, the outlook for mule deer in the Casper Region is a mixed bag, with many areas now supporting more mule deer than in much of the past 10 years, with other areas continuing to harbor lower than desired mule deer densities, especially in the Laramie Range (Hunt Areas 65 and 66).
During the summer of 2018, moderate drought beset most of the Casper Region following relatively good spring precipitation, which resulted in relatively poor mule deer fawn survival. Managers attributed relatively poor fawn survival to dry summer conditions causing key vegetative communities to cure relatively quickly in some parts of the Region, thus affecting the nutritional condition of fawns and lactating females. In addition, some increased fawn predation may have also occurred as small mammal densities have dramatically declined. In general, mule deer were in moderate nutritional condition entering the 2018-2019 winter as overall range conditions were fair in key mule deer habitats. The 2018-2019 winter was variable in the Casper Region, with mild winter conditions prevailing throughout the Casper, Douglas and Lusk areas, and relatively harsh winter conditions in northeastern Wyoming. Over-winter survival was about average in most of the Region, but higher than normal winter losses likely occurred in northeast Wyoming. The combination of mild winter weather and relatively poor fawn survival has resulted in relatively stable mule deer populations in most of the region. Although winter losses were somewhat significant in the Black Hills, this mule deer population grew substantially in recent years, and hunters should still expect to see relatively good mule deer densities in this area.
General license mule deer hunters in Deer Hunt Areas 65 (Nonresident Region J) and 66 (Nonresident Region D) will see about the same or a few less mule deer bucks this fall compared to last year. Following a period of population growth, fawn recruitment and overall mule deer survival appears to have declined over the past year, which will result in fewer young bucks available to hunters in these areas. Hunting seasons will remain conservative to allow for maximum population growth, with harvest restricted to antlered mule deer with three points or more. General license seasons in Hunt Areas 7-9, 11-14 and 21 (Nonresident Region B) will remain unchanged. In these areas, hunters should again expect to see high ratios of mature bucks. However, these areas have limited public access, and hunters should secure permission to private lands before planning a hunt in these areas. In the Black Hills (Hunt Areas 1-6, Nonresident Region A), hunters should still see relatively good mule deer numbers in traditional mule deer habitats. Hunters are reminded that National Forest lands in Hunt Areas 2 and 4 harbor very few mule deer compared to white-tailed deer, and that most mule deer occupy private lands in this part of the state.
Doe/fawn license issuance for mule deer has long been eliminated throughout most of the Casper Region outside of the Black Hills. Throughout the Region, nonresident mule deer hunting opportunity was drastically cut over the past 15 years as mule deer populations declined, although this trend has recently reversed with continued high Region A license issuance and a modest increase in Region B license issuance. Region D and J licenses remain unchanged for 2019. Nonresidents wishing to hunt in Deer Hunt Area 88 should note that this area is now part of Region D (was formerly in Region E).
Three of the four limited quota deer hunt areas in the Casper Region will again see increased licenses as recruitment of bucks has been good since 2014. These areas (Hunt Areas 10, 22, 34 and 89) boast high mature buck ratios, and are managed for quality hunting and high harvest success. For 2019, there was a modest increase in Type 1 (antlered deer) licenses in both Hunt Areas 34 and 89 west of Casper, where there should be good availability of older-aged bucks. These two areas have long been managed conservatively to provide good mature buck hunting opportunity, even in years when mule deer populations are depressed. However, despite an uptick in license issuance, drawing odds for both Hunt Areas 34 and 89 Type 1 licenses will remain low given their popularity. License issuance also increased in Hunt Area 22, although hunters are reminded this area has very limited public access for mule deer hunting. In Hunt Area 10, which is largely comprised of the Thunder Basin National Grasslands, license numbers will remain unchanged. Hunters should temper their expectations regarding antler size of mature buck mule deer in these four areas. Despite licenses being very hard to draw and a management emphasis on maintaing high mature buck ratios, most hunters do not harvest large-antlered mature bucks in these areas.
Outside of the Black Hills, white-tailed deer numbers have increased as favorable weather conditions have provided for improved fawn production, leading to modest population growth in some areas and dramatic growth in others. When conditions are optimal, white-tailed deer are capable of high reproductive rates leading to rapid growth. As a result, issuance of white-tailed deer licenses (Type 3 and 8) will continue to remain relatively high across the entire Casper Region. Type 3 and 8 license issuance has been eliminated in Hunt Areas 7, 8 and 9 due to confusion and enforcement problems created due to a lack of access, while the addition of 100 Type 8 licenses in Hunt Area 88 will help address damage to cultivated lands along the North Platte River. Hunters are reminded that, outside of the Black Hills (Hunt Areas 2 and 4), white-tailed deer primarily occupy private lands along creek bottoms and irrigated meadows. For most of these areas, hunters should plan on securing permission to hunt private land before purchasing a white-tailed deer license.
In the Black Hills, where Wyoming’s largest concentration of white-tailed deer occur on public lands, the population increased substantially in recent years and remains high despite elevated winter losses this past year. Regardless, there should still be plenty of deer available to hunters given the extraordinarily high densities of white-tailed deer prior to this winter. Local managers have been trying to reduce this white-tailed deer herd, and have thus maintained high Region A and doe/fawn license issuance. Continued high white-tailed deer densities should provide good hunting quality and harvest success for Black Hills deer hunters on both public and private lands. Hunters should note that all doe/fawn licenses in the Black Hills have been converted to Type 7 to standardize doe/fawn license types valid on private land only. Maintaining liberal nonresident opportunity in the Black Hills is especially important for attaining desired doe harvest, as nonresidents holding Region A licenses typically harvest the majority of doe white-tailed deer on private land in this part of the state.
Cody
Mule deer hunting success in 2019 for the southern Big Horn Basin which includes the Southwest Bighorns herd (Hunt Areas 35,37,39, 40 and 164), the Basin herd (Hunt Areas 125 and 127) and the Owl Creek/Meeteetse herd (Hunt Areas 116-120) should be similar to 2018. In the southern Big Horn Basin, mule deer fawn production has decreased in recent years, which has stabilized or decreased populations in most areas. Buck recruitment has been fair due to a recent decrease in fawn production. Additional antlerless deer hunting opportunity was added in Hunt Area 164 to address damage and increasing prevalence of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Hunters should expect fair to good hunting in all hunt areas in the southern Big Horn Basin.
Buck numbers have decreased over the past few years for the Paintrock herd (Hunt Areas 41, 46 and 47) and in the Northern Bighorn Mountains (Hunt Areas 50, 51 and 53), overall population remains lower than deer numbers observed in the mid-2000s. Buck hunting should be fair, and antlerless deer hunting opportunity will be similar to last year The Greybull River deer herd (Hunt Areas 124 and 165) and the Shoshone River deer herd (Hunt Areas 121, 122 and 123) should have similar hunting seasons compared to 2018 with the normal 10-day general seasons and Type 6 and 8 licenses restricted to private or agricultural lands. Managers have slightly decreased doe/fawn license numbers in 2019 in Hunt Areas 121 and 122 to reduce pressure on Clarks Fork migratory deer and public comment received during the season setting process.
The Shoshone River (Hunt Areas 121, 122 and 123) mule deer herd will be one of the intensive CWD sampling herds within the Cody Region for the 2019 deer season. Managers ask that the public bring in all adult (2 years old or older) mule deer bucks harvested within these hunt areas to a Game and Fish check station, the Cody Regional office, or other advertised sampling locations. The goal for this years sampling effort within this area is to sample 200 adult mule deer bucks. Game and Fish will need the public’s help to achieve this goal.
Upper Shoshone (Hunt Areas 110-115) mule deer hunters should expect deer hunting to be fair, and likely not as good as it was in 2018. This herd has experienced chronically low fawn ratios over the past five years that have contributed to a decreased population and overall number of bucks. In order to address this decrease in population and fawn recruitment, managers have decreased mule deer hunting opportunity within this herd until it shows signs of recovery. The general season ending date has been moved to Nov. 3 to reduce buck harvest while this herd is recovering, so the general season now runs from Oct. 15 – Nov. 3 for Hunt Areas 110-114 during the 2019 deer season. During the season setting process, hunters requested that some hunting in November remain, and as a result, managers included two new limited quota hunts (one is the South Fork, and one in the North Fork) that run from Nov. 1 – 15. These hunts greatly decrease the hunting and harvest pressure on these depressed populations, but still provide some opportunity for hunters later in November. Hunters who have drawn this license will likely have a quality hunt even though populations are low due to lower hunter pressure during that time frame. Additionally managers have decreased antlerless harvest within this herd, and have focused remaining antlerless harvest in private land areas with damage issues and growing resident deer populations, reducing pressure on migratory deer.
The Clarks Fork herd (Hunt Areas 105, 106 and 109), like the Upper Shoshone herd, has experienced chronically low fawn recruitment over the past five years and a reduction in the overall population. Managers have reduced harvest opportunity by removing seven days from the general deer season and changing the quota of 105, 106, 109 Type 1 licenses from 35 to 25. The general season will run from Oct. 1 – 24 for the 2019 deer season. Hunters should expect hunting to be fair, but it will likely not be as good as the 2018 season. The Clarks Fork (Hunt Areas 105, 106 and 109) mule deer herd will be one of the intensive CWD sampling herds within the Cody Region for the 2019 deer season. Managers ask that the public bring in all adult (2 years old or older) mule deer bucks harvested within these Hunt Areas to a Game and Fish check station, the Cody Regional office, or other advertised sampling locations. The goal for this years sampling effort within this area is to sample 200 adult mule deer bucks. The Department will need the public's help to achieve this goal.
White-tailed deer numbers continue to do well in the Big Horn Basin, and populations continue to expand into new areas and habitats. In some areas, there is concern over the increased population of white-tailed deer, disease issues and competition with mule deer so harvest opportunity has been liberalized to keep populations in check. Managers added any white-tailed deer to the general seasons for Hunt Areas 41, 46, 47, 50, 51, 52 and 53. Managers also increased Type 3 and 8 licenses in many hunt areas across the Cody Region. Hunters are encouraged to check their 2019 big game regulations to find all changes for the 2019 season. Hunters should expect similar hunting success and conditions as in 2018, with more opportunity to harvest a white-tailed deer in the 2109 season.
Green River
Deer hunters should see improvements over last year’s season, especially in the eastern part of the Green River Region. Deer hunting should be especially good in Area 82 east of Baggs and hunters are expected to be pleased as deer numbers are high in this area. Season lengths have been extended a modest amount as buck only hunting has limited influence on overall deer numbers, and buck ratios remain high. Antler point restrictions (APRs) will remain in place throughout most of the region for an additional year to aid in the recruitment of yearling bucks, with the exception of Areas 82, 100 and 101 (limited quota), and 102 (limited quota). The APR in Hunt Areas 82 and 100 (Baggs Deer) was on schedule for removal and buck ratios have reached the management criteria established in this herd. The APR in Hunt Area 131 has been modified from a four-point restriction to a three- point restriction.
Seasons were lengthened in the western portion of the region to provide two weekends of hunting opportunity for the public, a sentiment often voiced by local hunters. Mule deer populations can easily support this extension, despite higher than normal winter mortality observed in localized areas this winter. These areas include Hunt Areas 132, 133, 134, 135 and 168. Antler point restrictions remain in place for the current proposed year, but established management criteria suggest this should be the last year of use in these areas.
Some limited doe-fawn hunting opportunity is being offered throughout the region for a couple of reasons. In the east (Area 82) two license types (6 and 7) are being offered to address both damage concerns and overall deer numbers. Additionally, there are a few doe licenses being offered in Area 131 near Farson and along the Green River, and in the Uinta herd (areas 132, 133, and 168) to address damage to growing or stored crops.
A few Type 3 white-tailed deer licenses were added in 2019 to some areas in the region (131-135, 168) to allow for white-tailed deer hunting opportunity. White-tails can be found in a few widely scattered riparian habitats throughout these areas, and some nice bucks occur. Given this season overlaps the rut, hunting should be very good in appropriate habitats throughout these areas.
Jackson
The Wyoming Range Deer Herd (Hunt Areas 134, 135, 143-145) is designated as a special management strategy herd which focuses on providing high quality hunting opportunities, mature age class deer, and high buck:doe ratios (30-45:100). The winter of 2016-2017 was extremely severe, with very heavy losses of fawns and adults documented.
The winter of 2017-2018, however was very mild and even though the 2017 fawn crop was not large, most survived and helped with the recovery of this deer herd. A comprehensive deer abundance survey on all winter ranges of the Wyoming Range deer herd in mid-February 2018 (which required two helicopters and 133 hours of flight time to complete) produced a total of 25,317 deer actually observed and an estimate of 30,500 deer. This survey gave managers more confidence that current methods of estimating deer numbers accurately track the population and will be very helpful in monitoring the recovery of this deer herd.
The southern portion of the herd unit will offer 13 days of antlered deer hunting in Hunt Areas 134 and 135. As in the last two years, an antler point regulation will allow hunters to take antlered mule deer with three points or more on either antler in Area 134. In Area 135, hunters will be permitted to take antlered mule deer or any white-tailed deer. General license hunting opportunity for antlered mule deer will run from September 15 - October 6 for Hunt Areas 143-145. In Hunt Area 145, a total of 50 limited quota Type 3 licenses valid for any white-tailed deer will be in place from November 1 to November 15, and unused Type 3 licenses valid for antlerless white-tailed deer will continue from November 16 to January 31.
Due to the severity of the 2016-2017 winter and associated deer losses, reductions to the nonresident quota were implemented in both Regions G and H in 2017. These quotas remain the same for 2019, and are 400 in Region G and 600 for Region H. Reduced nonresident quotas combined with a shorter general license season for all hunters will help meet the special management criteria of maintaining at least 30 bucks:100 does and assuring older age class bucks remain in the population.
The 2018 hunting season produced some exceptional buck deer, and hunter satisfaction was quite high even though many portions of the Wyoming Range were closed due to wildfire control efforts. Even though late winter conditions in the Jackson area were quite severe, deer winter ranges along the east slope of the Wyoming Range did not experience this, and impacts are not expected to be above normal. Southern portions of the herd unit did experience increased snow depths in late winter that translated into higher than normal levels of fawn losses.
The northern portion of the Sublette Deer Herd includes Hunt Areas 146, 150-152, 155 and 156 in the Jackson Region. Again, due to high deer mortality caused by severe winter conditions in 2016-2017 and the need to promote population growth, the reduced nonresident quota, shortened season, and antler point restriction will remain in place for 2019. Winter range conditions for some portions of the Sublette Herd were relatively harsh in late winter, although the late onset of severe weather will hopefully minimize impacts.
As the Wyoming Range and Sublette mule deer herds recover from the 2016-2017 winter, and numbers begin to increase, it is the intent to increase hunter opportunity in the form of additional hunting days and appropriate increases in nonresident quotas. In addition, the 3-point or better antler point restriction should be removed to allow more opportunity and reduce hunting pressure placed on adult bucks.
The Targhee Deer Herd (Hunt Area 149) is a small population on the west side of the Teton Range that is managed to provide recreational hunting opportunities. Population growth of this herd is limited by winter range and habitat loss from residential developments. Most crucial winter ranges are situated in Idaho and options to allow this population to grow are limited. In 2018, hunters reported a 19% success rate, but hunter satisfaction remained relatively constant at 57%. Proposed hunting seasons in 2019 include a general license season for antlered deer from September 15 through October 6. A Type 8, limited quota license will be offered again in 2019, valid for doe or fawn white-tailed deer. Fifty licenses will be available. A new, Type 3 license, which was first offered in 2017, will again be valid for any white-tailed deer from September 15 to November 30.
Lander
Similar to pronghorn, mule deer populations had markedly declined over the last several years due to poor fawn productivity until increased fawn production (and likely survival) were realized starting in 2015–2017. In 2018, fawn productivity decreased on average by 13/100 throughout the region. As few as 33/100 were observed in the Beaver Rim herd unit and an average of 61/100 fawns were observed in the Lander Region. Of the five herds within the Lander Region with population objectives, one is at and four are below (but three are moving toward) objective, after the 2018 hunting season. While fawn productivity decreased, observed buck/doe ratios stayed similar and averaged 36/100. Hunters will have opportunity for similar harvest (mostly young bucks) as mule deer numbers remain at similar levels and no antler point restrictions are in place. As a result seasons are similar in 2019 to that offered in 2018.
Continued any white-tailed deer seasons are in place in the Dubois, Lander, Riverton and Jeffrey City areas. Extended seasons and increased license issuance in the South Wind River (Hunt Areas 92, 94 and 160) and Dubois (hunt area 128) herd units for white-tailed deer will offer more hunting opportunity. However, while doing better throughout much of the Region white-tailed deer numbers remain relatively low due to an apparent Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) outbreak three years ago and have yet to fully recover.
Laramie
Most mule deer populations in the Laramie Region are below management objectives, with combinations of habitat quality, disease and unfavorable weather conditions likely hindering growth. Buck ratios remained relatively high in 2018, with ratios exceeding 30 bucks :100 does in every herd. The average fawn ratio across the region was 58 fawns :100 does, an increase over both 2016 and 2017 estimates. Snowpack during the 2018-19 winter was average to above-average in most of the region. We anticipate that the additional water on the landscape will yield robust spring forage, potentially favorable fawn production, and exceptional antler growth.
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) continues to be a major concern in the region, especially in the Laramie Mountains Herd, where estimated prevalence from hunter-harvested deer exceeds 20% in some hunt areas. Despite an abundance of males (36 bucks: 100 does) there continues to be a very small percentage of Class III bucks (antler width > 26”) in the Laramie Mountains population. The majority of males harvested in 2018 were young to middle-aged animals, with 93% of field-checked animals < Class II (< 25”; n = 156). The Department encourages hunters in the region to have harvested animals tested for CWD.
Recent fire activity in the Laramie Mountains, Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountains will likely improve habitat quality for nearly all of the region’s mule deer populations. The Department is engaged with land management partners and local landowners to limit the spread of cheatgrass, a detrimental plant that often invades the landscape following a fire.
The Platte Valley Mule Deer Herd migration corridor was designated in 2018. The designation was based on data collected from 55 does that were collared in the Platte Valley, 2011-2013. To further conserve the corridor, the Department will partner with the public and various stakeholders over the next year to identify potential risks to migration routes and corresponding conservation opportunities.
As part of the Sheep Mountain Mule Deer Herd Initiative 60 does were fitted with GPS collars in 2017. Managers retrieved the collars in April of this year. Preliminary data highlight important areas for wintering herds, and also suggest substantial migratory movements between northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. Data from the collars will help managers to better understand the herd’s migration timing, movement corridors, stopover areas, and habitat use patterns.
Changes to 2019 mule deer seasons are minimal. Managers increased buck opportunity in 2017, and would like to run the current seasons for a few years to evaluate the effects on populations.
Southeast Wyoming white-tailed deer seasons are designed to provide hunting opportunities during the rut, and to reduce damage. Liberal seasons provide abundant opportunity, though the majority of white-tailed deer are found on private land, where access can be difficult. White-tailed deer populations appear to be increasing across the region based on harvest data and landowner observations. White-tailed opportunity was increased in most areas for the 2019 season.
Pinedale
Portions of two mule deer herds are managed in the Pinedale Region: the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds. Both are large populations with special management strategies designed to provide high quality hunting opportunities, older age class deer and high buck:100 doe ratios (30-45:100). For the Sublette herd, this population decreased below the post-hunt population objective in 2004 following significant winter losses when fawn mortality was estimated at 75% and adult mortality at 20%, and has remained below desired population objective levels since that time. Despite improved spring moisture and improved shrub productivity from 2009 to 2011, deer losses were extreme from the 2010-2011 winter, with an estimated 70% fawn loss. Dry conditions during 2012 and 2013 resulted in poor production on winter habitats followed by improved moisture and forage production in 2014 and 2015. Good fawn survival during 2014-2016 resulted in population growth, but losses during the 2016-2017 were again extreme. Despite a mild winter and excellent fawn survival during winter 2017-2018, snow depths on Sublette deer winter ranges during 2018-2019 were considerable. Change in ratio surveys conducted in April of 2019 indicated about 50% of the fawns were lost during winter. Adult survival estimates of telemetered Sublette deer from ongoing research with the University of Wyoming indicated 76% survival, with some mortalities occurring as late as May.
The goal of the 2019 hunting season for the Sublette mule deer herd (hunt areas 130, 131, 138-142, 146, 150-156, 162) is to minimize buck harvest to maintain postseason buck:doe ratios above 30:100, while still allowing hunting opportunity. Maintaining the current nonresident quota at 600 licenses, coupled with a short hunting season and antler point restrictions (3 points or more) for a third year in a row should help achieve these goals. General license seasons are proposed to run from September 15-October 6, closing on the first Sunday of October.
The Wyoming Range deer herd (hunt areas 134, 135,143-145) also suffered heavy losses during the winter of 2016-2017, with documented losses of all radio-collared fawns and 35% of telemetered adult does, equating to an over-winter loss of approximately 40% of the entire deer herd. Conversely, the winter of 2017-2018 was exceptionally mild and allowed increased fawn survival. However, the winter of 2018-2019 was also severe, but impacted mule deer wintering on the more southern ranges (Evanston-Cokeville) greater than winter ranges near LaBarge.. Change in ratio surveys conducted in April 2019 indicated a loss of nearly 30% of fawns for the entire herd, but a 70% loss in hunt area 134 compared to only a 13% loss in hunt area 143.
The impact of the 2016-2017 winter was seen in December 2017 post season surveys, which indicated that fawn production and survival was low with only 54 fawns:100 does. In 2018, fawn:doe ratios improved slightly to 60 fawns:100 does, but remain lower than the previous five-year average (2013-2017) of 64 fawns:100 does. Yearling buck:doe ratios improved from 5:100 in 2017 to 12:100 in 2018 reflecting increased survival. Although adult buck:doe ratios dropped to 29:100 in 2017, they bumped up to 30:100 in 2018, within management objectives.
The southern portion of the Wyoming Range herd will offer 13 days of antlered deer hunting in hunt areas 134 and 135, allowing hunters to take antlered mule deer with three points or more on either antler or any white-tailed deer. General license hunting opportunity for antlered mule deer will run from September 15-October 6 for hunt areas 142-145. In hunt area 145, a total of 50 Limited quota Type 3 licenses valid for any white-tailed deer will be in place from November 1-November 15, and unused Type 3 licenses valid for antlerless white-tailed deer will continue from November 16-January 31.
Region G and Region H nonresident deer quotas will remain at 400 and 600 licenses, respectively. Conservative nonresident quotas combined with a short general license seasons for all hunters will help meet the “special” management criteria of maintaining at least 30 bucks:100 does and maintain quality bucks in the population.
Sheridan
Mule deer populations in the Sheridan Region are well below the population management objectives in all four herds. Harvest strategies are designed to provide quality buck hunting opportunity while maintaining conservative antlerless deer harvest strategies to maximize herd growth while addressing localized areas of cropland depredation. Postseason fawn ratios have been stagnant the last few years which has resulted in minimal herd growth. In 2018, fawn ratios were again below what was needed to maintain populations in most hunt areas. This is likely the result of the 2017-2018 winter which had record cold and snow in portions of the region.
Access to hunt mule deer, particularly buck mule deer, has become very limited due to conservative hunting strategies on private land. Even though mule deer populations may be lower than desired, overall buck-to-doe ratios in Sheridan Region herds are quite high. Hunter densities on many accessible tracts of public land can be high, especially on opening day and weekends. Hunters who plan hunts later in the season often see fewer hunters.
To address concerns regarding mule deer populations and hunter access to private and public lands, mule deer seasons have been designed to provide needed flexibility. Seasons will allow harvest of does and fawns on private land where there are damage concerns. In the Black Hills, where deer numbers have noticeably increased, Type 7 doe/fawn licenses are limited to private land to address increasing mule deer and white-tailed deer populations. Nonresident hunters will see a slight increase in the number of Region C licenses whereas the Region Y quota will be unchanged from 2018.
White-tailed deer seasons will again be very liberal with ample opportunity to put venison in the freezer, especially if one secures access to private lands. Nearly all hunt areas offer November hunting seasons for white-tailed deer and many doe/fawn seasons extend into December to allow maximum harvest to manage this population. Securing access to private land increases a hunter’s chance of being successful since most white-tailed deer are found on private land. Hunters are reminded that late season hunting is very popular with increasing interest in doe/fawn hunting, so contacting landowners early increases one’s chance to secure access.
There will be more opportunity to harvest a buck white-tailed deer this year with increased Type 3 quotas in Hunt Areas 23, 26 and 24 and extended seasons in Hunt Areas 28 and 29. Hunters are reminded that although Hunt Area 28 is public land, white-tailed deer distribution is limited during the late season.
After undergoing a long-term gradual decline since the early 2000s, mule deer populations in the Casper Region experienced a period of much needed growth beginning in 2013 due to excellent fawn production. That growth has now slowed with declining fawn recruitment in 2018, and mule deer numbers appear to have stabilized. Although mule deer populations remain below established management objectives in most herds, they are significantly improved compared to much of the past decade. Overall, the outlook for mule deer in the Casper Region is a mixed bag, with many areas now supporting more mule deer than in much of the past 10 years, with other areas continuing to harbor lower than desired mule deer densities, especially in the Laramie Range (Hunt Areas 65 and 66).
During the summer of 2018, moderate drought beset most of the Casper Region following relatively good spring precipitation, which resulted in relatively poor mule deer fawn survival. Managers attributed relatively poor fawn survival to dry summer conditions causing key vegetative communities to cure relatively quickly in some parts of the Region, thus affecting the nutritional condition of fawns and lactating females. In addition, some increased fawn predation may have also occurred as small mammal densities have dramatically declined. In general, mule deer were in moderate nutritional condition entering the 2018-2019 winter as overall range conditions were fair in key mule deer habitats. The 2018-2019 winter was variable in the Casper Region, with mild winter conditions prevailing throughout the Casper, Douglas and Lusk areas, and relatively harsh winter conditions in northeastern Wyoming. Over-winter survival was about average in most of the Region, but higher than normal winter losses likely occurred in northeast Wyoming. The combination of mild winter weather and relatively poor fawn survival has resulted in relatively stable mule deer populations in most of the region. Although winter losses were somewhat significant in the Black Hills, this mule deer population grew substantially in recent years, and hunters should still expect to see relatively good mule deer densities in this area.
General license mule deer hunters in Deer Hunt Areas 65 (Nonresident Region J) and 66 (Nonresident Region D) will see about the same or a few less mule deer bucks this fall compared to last year. Following a period of population growth, fawn recruitment and overall mule deer survival appears to have declined over the past year, which will result in fewer young bucks available to hunters in these areas. Hunting seasons will remain conservative to allow for maximum population growth, with harvest restricted to antlered mule deer with three points or more. General license seasons in Hunt Areas 7-9, 11-14 and 21 (Nonresident Region B) will remain unchanged. In these areas, hunters should again expect to see high ratios of mature bucks. However, these areas have limited public access, and hunters should secure permission to private lands before planning a hunt in these areas. In the Black Hills (Hunt Areas 1-6, Nonresident Region A), hunters should still see relatively good mule deer numbers in traditional mule deer habitats. Hunters are reminded that National Forest lands in Hunt Areas 2 and 4 harbor very few mule deer compared to white-tailed deer, and that most mule deer occupy private lands in this part of the state.
Doe/fawn license issuance for mule deer has long been eliminated throughout most of the Casper Region outside of the Black Hills. Throughout the Region, nonresident mule deer hunting opportunity was drastically cut over the past 15 years as mule deer populations declined, although this trend has recently reversed with continued high Region A license issuance and a modest increase in Region B license issuance. Region D and J licenses remain unchanged for 2019. Nonresidents wishing to hunt in Deer Hunt Area 88 should note that this area is now part of Region D (was formerly in Region E).
Three of the four limited quota deer hunt areas in the Casper Region will again see increased licenses as recruitment of bucks has been good since 2014. These areas (Hunt Areas 10, 22, 34 and 89) boast high mature buck ratios, and are managed for quality hunting and high harvest success. For 2019, there was a modest increase in Type 1 (antlered deer) licenses in both Hunt Areas 34 and 89 west of Casper, where there should be good availability of older-aged bucks. These two areas have long been managed conservatively to provide good mature buck hunting opportunity, even in years when mule deer populations are depressed. However, despite an uptick in license issuance, drawing odds for both Hunt Areas 34 and 89 Type 1 licenses will remain low given their popularity. License issuance also increased in Hunt Area 22, although hunters are reminded this area has very limited public access for mule deer hunting. In Hunt Area 10, which is largely comprised of the Thunder Basin National Grasslands, license numbers will remain unchanged. Hunters should temper their expectations regarding antler size of mature buck mule deer in these four areas. Despite licenses being very hard to draw and a management emphasis on maintaing high mature buck ratios, most hunters do not harvest large-antlered mature bucks in these areas.
Outside of the Black Hills, white-tailed deer numbers have increased as favorable weather conditions have provided for improved fawn production, leading to modest population growth in some areas and dramatic growth in others. When conditions are optimal, white-tailed deer are capable of high reproductive rates leading to rapid growth. As a result, issuance of white-tailed deer licenses (Type 3 and 8) will continue to remain relatively high across the entire Casper Region. Type 3 and 8 license issuance has been eliminated in Hunt Areas 7, 8 and 9 due to confusion and enforcement problems created due to a lack of access, while the addition of 100 Type 8 licenses in Hunt Area 88 will help address damage to cultivated lands along the North Platte River. Hunters are reminded that, outside of the Black Hills (Hunt Areas 2 and 4), white-tailed deer primarily occupy private lands along creek bottoms and irrigated meadows. For most of these areas, hunters should plan on securing permission to hunt private land before purchasing a white-tailed deer license.
In the Black Hills, where Wyoming’s largest concentration of white-tailed deer occur on public lands, the population increased substantially in recent years and remains high despite elevated winter losses this past year. Regardless, there should still be plenty of deer available to hunters given the extraordinarily high densities of white-tailed deer prior to this winter. Local managers have been trying to reduce this white-tailed deer herd, and have thus maintained high Region A and doe/fawn license issuance. Continued high white-tailed deer densities should provide good hunting quality and harvest success for Black Hills deer hunters on both public and private lands. Hunters should note that all doe/fawn licenses in the Black Hills have been converted to Type 7 to standardize doe/fawn license types valid on private land only. Maintaining liberal nonresident opportunity in the Black Hills is especially important for attaining desired doe harvest, as nonresidents holding Region A licenses typically harvest the majority of doe white-tailed deer on private land in this part of the state.
Cody
Mule deer hunting success in 2019 for the southern Big Horn Basin which includes the Southwest Bighorns herd (Hunt Areas 35,37,39, 40 and 164), the Basin herd (Hunt Areas 125 and 127) and the Owl Creek/Meeteetse herd (Hunt Areas 116-120) should be similar to 2018. In the southern Big Horn Basin, mule deer fawn production has decreased in recent years, which has stabilized or decreased populations in most areas. Buck recruitment has been fair due to a recent decrease in fawn production. Additional antlerless deer hunting opportunity was added in Hunt Area 164 to address damage and increasing prevalence of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Hunters should expect fair to good hunting in all hunt areas in the southern Big Horn Basin.
Buck numbers have decreased over the past few years for the Paintrock herd (Hunt Areas 41, 46 and 47) and in the Northern Bighorn Mountains (Hunt Areas 50, 51 and 53), overall population remains lower than deer numbers observed in the mid-2000s. Buck hunting should be fair, and antlerless deer hunting opportunity will be similar to last year The Greybull River deer herd (Hunt Areas 124 and 165) and the Shoshone River deer herd (Hunt Areas 121, 122 and 123) should have similar hunting seasons compared to 2018 with the normal 10-day general seasons and Type 6 and 8 licenses restricted to private or agricultural lands. Managers have slightly decreased doe/fawn license numbers in 2019 in Hunt Areas 121 and 122 to reduce pressure on Clarks Fork migratory deer and public comment received during the season setting process.
The Shoshone River (Hunt Areas 121, 122 and 123) mule deer herd will be one of the intensive CWD sampling herds within the Cody Region for the 2019 deer season. Managers ask that the public bring in all adult (2 years old or older) mule deer bucks harvested within these hunt areas to a Game and Fish check station, the Cody Regional office, or other advertised sampling locations. The goal for this years sampling effort within this area is to sample 200 adult mule deer bucks. Game and Fish will need the public’s help to achieve this goal.
Upper Shoshone (Hunt Areas 110-115) mule deer hunters should expect deer hunting to be fair, and likely not as good as it was in 2018. This herd has experienced chronically low fawn ratios over the past five years that have contributed to a decreased population and overall number of bucks. In order to address this decrease in population and fawn recruitment, managers have decreased mule deer hunting opportunity within this herd until it shows signs of recovery. The general season ending date has been moved to Nov. 3 to reduce buck harvest while this herd is recovering, so the general season now runs from Oct. 15 – Nov. 3 for Hunt Areas 110-114 during the 2019 deer season. During the season setting process, hunters requested that some hunting in November remain, and as a result, managers included two new limited quota hunts (one is the South Fork, and one in the North Fork) that run from Nov. 1 – 15. These hunts greatly decrease the hunting and harvest pressure on these depressed populations, but still provide some opportunity for hunters later in November. Hunters who have drawn this license will likely have a quality hunt even though populations are low due to lower hunter pressure during that time frame. Additionally managers have decreased antlerless harvest within this herd, and have focused remaining antlerless harvest in private land areas with damage issues and growing resident deer populations, reducing pressure on migratory deer.
The Clarks Fork herd (Hunt Areas 105, 106 and 109), like the Upper Shoshone herd, has experienced chronically low fawn recruitment over the past five years and a reduction in the overall population. Managers have reduced harvest opportunity by removing seven days from the general deer season and changing the quota of 105, 106, 109 Type 1 licenses from 35 to 25. The general season will run from Oct. 1 – 24 for the 2019 deer season. Hunters should expect hunting to be fair, but it will likely not be as good as the 2018 season. The Clarks Fork (Hunt Areas 105, 106 and 109) mule deer herd will be one of the intensive CWD sampling herds within the Cody Region for the 2019 deer season. Managers ask that the public bring in all adult (2 years old or older) mule deer bucks harvested within these Hunt Areas to a Game and Fish check station, the Cody Regional office, or other advertised sampling locations. The goal for this years sampling effort within this area is to sample 200 adult mule deer bucks. The Department will need the public's help to achieve this goal.
White-tailed deer numbers continue to do well in the Big Horn Basin, and populations continue to expand into new areas and habitats. In some areas, there is concern over the increased population of white-tailed deer, disease issues and competition with mule deer so harvest opportunity has been liberalized to keep populations in check. Managers added any white-tailed deer to the general seasons for Hunt Areas 41, 46, 47, 50, 51, 52 and 53. Managers also increased Type 3 and 8 licenses in many hunt areas across the Cody Region. Hunters are encouraged to check their 2019 big game regulations to find all changes for the 2019 season. Hunters should expect similar hunting success and conditions as in 2018, with more opportunity to harvest a white-tailed deer in the 2109 season.
Green River
Deer hunters should see improvements over last year’s season, especially in the eastern part of the Green River Region. Deer hunting should be especially good in Area 82 east of Baggs and hunters are expected to be pleased as deer numbers are high in this area. Season lengths have been extended a modest amount as buck only hunting has limited influence on overall deer numbers, and buck ratios remain high. Antler point restrictions (APRs) will remain in place throughout most of the region for an additional year to aid in the recruitment of yearling bucks, with the exception of Areas 82, 100 and 101 (limited quota), and 102 (limited quota). The APR in Hunt Areas 82 and 100 (Baggs Deer) was on schedule for removal and buck ratios have reached the management criteria established in this herd. The APR in Hunt Area 131 has been modified from a four-point restriction to a three- point restriction.
Seasons were lengthened in the western portion of the region to provide two weekends of hunting opportunity for the public, a sentiment often voiced by local hunters. Mule deer populations can easily support this extension, despite higher than normal winter mortality observed in localized areas this winter. These areas include Hunt Areas 132, 133, 134, 135 and 168. Antler point restrictions remain in place for the current proposed year, but established management criteria suggest this should be the last year of use in these areas.
Some limited doe-fawn hunting opportunity is being offered throughout the region for a couple of reasons. In the east (Area 82) two license types (6 and 7) are being offered to address both damage concerns and overall deer numbers. Additionally, there are a few doe licenses being offered in Area 131 near Farson and along the Green River, and in the Uinta herd (areas 132, 133, and 168) to address damage to growing or stored crops.
A few Type 3 white-tailed deer licenses were added in 2019 to some areas in the region (131-135, 168) to allow for white-tailed deer hunting opportunity. White-tails can be found in a few widely scattered riparian habitats throughout these areas, and some nice bucks occur. Given this season overlaps the rut, hunting should be very good in appropriate habitats throughout these areas.
Jackson
The Wyoming Range Deer Herd (Hunt Areas 134, 135, 143-145) is designated as a special management strategy herd which focuses on providing high quality hunting opportunities, mature age class deer, and high buck:doe ratios (30-45:100). The winter of 2016-2017 was extremely severe, with very heavy losses of fawns and adults documented.
The winter of 2017-2018, however was very mild and even though the 2017 fawn crop was not large, most survived and helped with the recovery of this deer herd. A comprehensive deer abundance survey on all winter ranges of the Wyoming Range deer herd in mid-February 2018 (which required two helicopters and 133 hours of flight time to complete) produced a total of 25,317 deer actually observed and an estimate of 30,500 deer. This survey gave managers more confidence that current methods of estimating deer numbers accurately track the population and will be very helpful in monitoring the recovery of this deer herd.
The southern portion of the herd unit will offer 13 days of antlered deer hunting in Hunt Areas 134 and 135. As in the last two years, an antler point regulation will allow hunters to take antlered mule deer with three points or more on either antler in Area 134. In Area 135, hunters will be permitted to take antlered mule deer or any white-tailed deer. General license hunting opportunity for antlered mule deer will run from September 15 - October 6 for Hunt Areas 143-145. In Hunt Area 145, a total of 50 limited quota Type 3 licenses valid for any white-tailed deer will be in place from November 1 to November 15, and unused Type 3 licenses valid for antlerless white-tailed deer will continue from November 16 to January 31.
Due to the severity of the 2016-2017 winter and associated deer losses, reductions to the nonresident quota were implemented in both Regions G and H in 2017. These quotas remain the same for 2019, and are 400 in Region G and 600 for Region H. Reduced nonresident quotas combined with a shorter general license season for all hunters will help meet the special management criteria of maintaining at least 30 bucks:100 does and assuring older age class bucks remain in the population.
The 2018 hunting season produced some exceptional buck deer, and hunter satisfaction was quite high even though many portions of the Wyoming Range were closed due to wildfire control efforts. Even though late winter conditions in the Jackson area were quite severe, deer winter ranges along the east slope of the Wyoming Range did not experience this, and impacts are not expected to be above normal. Southern portions of the herd unit did experience increased snow depths in late winter that translated into higher than normal levels of fawn losses.
The northern portion of the Sublette Deer Herd includes Hunt Areas 146, 150-152, 155 and 156 in the Jackson Region. Again, due to high deer mortality caused by severe winter conditions in 2016-2017 and the need to promote population growth, the reduced nonresident quota, shortened season, and antler point restriction will remain in place for 2019. Winter range conditions for some portions of the Sublette Herd were relatively harsh in late winter, although the late onset of severe weather will hopefully minimize impacts.
As the Wyoming Range and Sublette mule deer herds recover from the 2016-2017 winter, and numbers begin to increase, it is the intent to increase hunter opportunity in the form of additional hunting days and appropriate increases in nonresident quotas. In addition, the 3-point or better antler point restriction should be removed to allow more opportunity and reduce hunting pressure placed on adult bucks.
The Targhee Deer Herd (Hunt Area 149) is a small population on the west side of the Teton Range that is managed to provide recreational hunting opportunities. Population growth of this herd is limited by winter range and habitat loss from residential developments. Most crucial winter ranges are situated in Idaho and options to allow this population to grow are limited. In 2018, hunters reported a 19% success rate, but hunter satisfaction remained relatively constant at 57%. Proposed hunting seasons in 2019 include a general license season for antlered deer from September 15 through October 6. A Type 8, limited quota license will be offered again in 2019, valid for doe or fawn white-tailed deer. Fifty licenses will be available. A new, Type 3 license, which was first offered in 2017, will again be valid for any white-tailed deer from September 15 to November 30.
Lander
Similar to pronghorn, mule deer populations had markedly declined over the last several years due to poor fawn productivity until increased fawn production (and likely survival) were realized starting in 2015–2017. In 2018, fawn productivity decreased on average by 13/100 throughout the region. As few as 33/100 were observed in the Beaver Rim herd unit and an average of 61/100 fawns were observed in the Lander Region. Of the five herds within the Lander Region with population objectives, one is at and four are below (but three are moving toward) objective, after the 2018 hunting season. While fawn productivity decreased, observed buck/doe ratios stayed similar and averaged 36/100. Hunters will have opportunity for similar harvest (mostly young bucks) as mule deer numbers remain at similar levels and no antler point restrictions are in place. As a result seasons are similar in 2019 to that offered in 2018.
Continued any white-tailed deer seasons are in place in the Dubois, Lander, Riverton and Jeffrey City areas. Extended seasons and increased license issuance in the South Wind River (Hunt Areas 92, 94 and 160) and Dubois (hunt area 128) herd units for white-tailed deer will offer more hunting opportunity. However, while doing better throughout much of the Region white-tailed deer numbers remain relatively low due to an apparent Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) outbreak three years ago and have yet to fully recover.
Laramie
Most mule deer populations in the Laramie Region are below management objectives, with combinations of habitat quality, disease and unfavorable weather conditions likely hindering growth. Buck ratios remained relatively high in 2018, with ratios exceeding 30 bucks :100 does in every herd. The average fawn ratio across the region was 58 fawns :100 does, an increase over both 2016 and 2017 estimates. Snowpack during the 2018-19 winter was average to above-average in most of the region. We anticipate that the additional water on the landscape will yield robust spring forage, potentially favorable fawn production, and exceptional antler growth.
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) continues to be a major concern in the region, especially in the Laramie Mountains Herd, where estimated prevalence from hunter-harvested deer exceeds 20% in some hunt areas. Despite an abundance of males (36 bucks: 100 does) there continues to be a very small percentage of Class III bucks (antler width > 26”) in the Laramie Mountains population. The majority of males harvested in 2018 were young to middle-aged animals, with 93% of field-checked animals < Class II (< 25”; n = 156). The Department encourages hunters in the region to have harvested animals tested for CWD.
Recent fire activity in the Laramie Mountains, Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountains will likely improve habitat quality for nearly all of the region’s mule deer populations. The Department is engaged with land management partners and local landowners to limit the spread of cheatgrass, a detrimental plant that often invades the landscape following a fire.
The Platte Valley Mule Deer Herd migration corridor was designated in 2018. The designation was based on data collected from 55 does that were collared in the Platte Valley, 2011-2013. To further conserve the corridor, the Department will partner with the public and various stakeholders over the next year to identify potential risks to migration routes and corresponding conservation opportunities.
As part of the Sheep Mountain Mule Deer Herd Initiative 60 does were fitted with GPS collars in 2017. Managers retrieved the collars in April of this year. Preliminary data highlight important areas for wintering herds, and also suggest substantial migratory movements between northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. Data from the collars will help managers to better understand the herd’s migration timing, movement corridors, stopover areas, and habitat use patterns.
Changes to 2019 mule deer seasons are minimal. Managers increased buck opportunity in 2017, and would like to run the current seasons for a few years to evaluate the effects on populations.
Southeast Wyoming white-tailed deer seasons are designed to provide hunting opportunities during the rut, and to reduce damage. Liberal seasons provide abundant opportunity, though the majority of white-tailed deer are found on private land, where access can be difficult. White-tailed deer populations appear to be increasing across the region based on harvest data and landowner observations. White-tailed opportunity was increased in most areas for the 2019 season.
Pinedale
Portions of two mule deer herds are managed in the Pinedale Region: the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds. Both are large populations with special management strategies designed to provide high quality hunting opportunities, older age class deer and high buck:100 doe ratios (30-45:100). For the Sublette herd, this population decreased below the post-hunt population objective in 2004 following significant winter losses when fawn mortality was estimated at 75% and adult mortality at 20%, and has remained below desired population objective levels since that time. Despite improved spring moisture and improved shrub productivity from 2009 to 2011, deer losses were extreme from the 2010-2011 winter, with an estimated 70% fawn loss. Dry conditions during 2012 and 2013 resulted in poor production on winter habitats followed by improved moisture and forage production in 2014 and 2015. Good fawn survival during 2014-2016 resulted in population growth, but losses during the 2016-2017 were again extreme. Despite a mild winter and excellent fawn survival during winter 2017-2018, snow depths on Sublette deer winter ranges during 2018-2019 were considerable. Change in ratio surveys conducted in April of 2019 indicated about 50% of the fawns were lost during winter. Adult survival estimates of telemetered Sublette deer from ongoing research with the University of Wyoming indicated 76% survival, with some mortalities occurring as late as May.
The goal of the 2019 hunting season for the Sublette mule deer herd (hunt areas 130, 131, 138-142, 146, 150-156, 162) is to minimize buck harvest to maintain postseason buck:doe ratios above 30:100, while still allowing hunting opportunity. Maintaining the current nonresident quota at 600 licenses, coupled with a short hunting season and antler point restrictions (3 points or more) for a third year in a row should help achieve these goals. General license seasons are proposed to run from September 15-October 6, closing on the first Sunday of October.
The Wyoming Range deer herd (hunt areas 134, 135,143-145) also suffered heavy losses during the winter of 2016-2017, with documented losses of all radio-collared fawns and 35% of telemetered adult does, equating to an over-winter loss of approximately 40% of the entire deer herd. Conversely, the winter of 2017-2018 was exceptionally mild and allowed increased fawn survival. However, the winter of 2018-2019 was also severe, but impacted mule deer wintering on the more southern ranges (Evanston-Cokeville) greater than winter ranges near LaBarge.. Change in ratio surveys conducted in April 2019 indicated a loss of nearly 30% of fawns for the entire herd, but a 70% loss in hunt area 134 compared to only a 13% loss in hunt area 143.
The impact of the 2016-2017 winter was seen in December 2017 post season surveys, which indicated that fawn production and survival was low with only 54 fawns:100 does. In 2018, fawn:doe ratios improved slightly to 60 fawns:100 does, but remain lower than the previous five-year average (2013-2017) of 64 fawns:100 does. Yearling buck:doe ratios improved from 5:100 in 2017 to 12:100 in 2018 reflecting increased survival. Although adult buck:doe ratios dropped to 29:100 in 2017, they bumped up to 30:100 in 2018, within management objectives.
The southern portion of the Wyoming Range herd will offer 13 days of antlered deer hunting in hunt areas 134 and 135, allowing hunters to take antlered mule deer with three points or more on either antler or any white-tailed deer. General license hunting opportunity for antlered mule deer will run from September 15-October 6 for hunt areas 142-145. In hunt area 145, a total of 50 Limited quota Type 3 licenses valid for any white-tailed deer will be in place from November 1-November 15, and unused Type 3 licenses valid for antlerless white-tailed deer will continue from November 16-January 31.
Region G and Region H nonresident deer quotas will remain at 400 and 600 licenses, respectively. Conservative nonresident quotas combined with a short general license seasons for all hunters will help meet the “special” management criteria of maintaining at least 30 bucks:100 does and maintain quality bucks in the population.
Sheridan
Mule deer populations in the Sheridan Region are well below the population management objectives in all four herds. Harvest strategies are designed to provide quality buck hunting opportunity while maintaining conservative antlerless deer harvest strategies to maximize herd growth while addressing localized areas of cropland depredation. Postseason fawn ratios have been stagnant the last few years which has resulted in minimal herd growth. In 2018, fawn ratios were again below what was needed to maintain populations in most hunt areas. This is likely the result of the 2017-2018 winter which had record cold and snow in portions of the region.
Access to hunt mule deer, particularly buck mule deer, has become very limited due to conservative hunting strategies on private land. Even though mule deer populations may be lower than desired, overall buck-to-doe ratios in Sheridan Region herds are quite high. Hunter densities on many accessible tracts of public land can be high, especially on opening day and weekends. Hunters who plan hunts later in the season often see fewer hunters.
To address concerns regarding mule deer populations and hunter access to private and public lands, mule deer seasons have been designed to provide needed flexibility. Seasons will allow harvest of does and fawns on private land where there are damage concerns. In the Black Hills, where deer numbers have noticeably increased, Type 7 doe/fawn licenses are limited to private land to address increasing mule deer and white-tailed deer populations. Nonresident hunters will see a slight increase in the number of Region C licenses whereas the Region Y quota will be unchanged from 2018.
White-tailed deer seasons will again be very liberal with ample opportunity to put venison in the freezer, especially if one secures access to private lands. Nearly all hunt areas offer November hunting seasons for white-tailed deer and many doe/fawn seasons extend into December to allow maximum harvest to manage this population. Securing access to private land increases a hunter’s chance of being successful since most white-tailed deer are found on private land. Hunters are reminded that late season hunting is very popular with increasing interest in doe/fawn hunting, so contacting landowners early increases one’s chance to secure access.
There will be more opportunity to harvest a buck white-tailed deer this year with increased Type 3 quotas in Hunt Areas 23, 26 and 24 and extended seasons in Hunt Areas 28 and 29. Hunters are reminded that although Hunt Area 28 is public land, white-tailed deer distribution is limited during the late season.