Colorado-Gunnison Basin Mule Deer (Units 54, 55, 66, 67)

Western Colorado is home to some of the finest mule deer hunting in the country with the famed Gunnison Basin being the epicenter. The area’s superior genetics coupled with ideal habitat and extremely limited tag allocations assures that a hunt in The Gunnison Basin is sure to not soon be forgotten. WTA’s choice outfitter has operated in this area for 50+ years. Within this timeframe they have acquired unmatched knowledge pertaining to finding & successfully harvesting trophy bucks in the area.

Hunting styles will drastically vary dependent on the season in which you are hunting. During the archery (early September) and muzzle loader (mid-September) bucks will be found in the remote high country. These areas are open and lend themselves well to glassing from atop high vantage points until a buck is located and a stalk can be planned/executed. Intense pre-scouting will take place throughout late July & August as bucks will not typically leave their basin of choice unless forced out by predators or human disturbance. These hunts are physically demanding due to the elevation (9,000+ ft.) and topography, hunters must arrive in peak physical condition and well-practiced with the weapon of their choice. Although difficult, these seasons are extremely successful for those that are properly prepared.

Rifle hunting in the basin will consist of spot and stalk techniques as well as sitting over parks and meadows that are known big buck hot spots. The later rifle hunts (3^rd and 4^th seasons) can be some of the best in the state. By this time snow has typically pushed the deer down onto the lower elevation winter range and the bucks will begin to rut. These hunts are much easier physically and typically yield high numbers of buck sightings daily. World-class bucks can be encountered at any point on these hunts as they migrate from far and wide down to these wintering/rutting grounds.

Lodging for these hunts will vary based on the hunt. During the archery/muzzle loader hunts a high mountain cabin will utilized with the occasional spike camp being necessary. The cabin contains two bedrooms, a large loft, full bathroom and dining facilities. During the rifle hunts lodging will consist of a local motel in Gunnison, CO.  and meals will be available at local restaurants.

Tags for this hunt me be drawn, the graph below will generally outline the number of points required to draw.

If you have drawn a tag and now seek outfitter assistance or have further questions regarding this great mule deer hunting opportunity or would like assistance applying into the Colorado mule deer draw, please contact WTA TAGS at 1-800-755-TAGS (8247).