Hunters voiced a consensus that Zone X-4 in California presents challenging terrain, necessitating good physical preparation for successful navigation and hunting. Experienced hunters recommend early scouting to familiarize oneself with deer movement patterns, as timing and understanding of seasonal changes can significantly impact hunting success. A common suggestion is to prioritize glassing from high vantage points to spot mule deer before they spot you. Overall, preparation and strategic planning are emphasized for a rewarding hunting experience in this zone.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
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Zone X-4 is located in portions of Lassen and Shasta counties in the northeast section of the state, northwest of Susanville and includes Eagle Lake.
Eagle Lake is a large lake with nice campgrounds and excellent trout fishing. Fish in this alkaline lake are known for their larger size and many stock lines come from this breed of trout.
Zone X-4 covers a large geographic area. The terrain can be very steep and rugged and vegetation can be extremely dense.
There are extensive tracts of public lands with excellent access in Zone X-4. Primary roadways in Zone X- 4 are State Highway 139 (eastern X-4), State Highway 44 (southwestern X-4), and State Highway 299 (northwestern X-4). Many County, USFS and BLM roads branch off of these primary roadways providing access to public lands.
Zone X-4 contains a mixture of both public and private lands. Public lands within Zone X-4 are administered by the Lassen and Shasta-Trinity National Forests and the Bureau of Land Management.
The vegetation is highly varied throughout Zone X-4 ranging from low sage, sagebrush, bitterbrush, montane chaparral, aspen, and juniper to hardwood-conifer habitats. Much of this zone is open country and offers plenty of long range extended glassing opportunities.
There are numerous designated campgrounds within Zone X-4. The facilities available at these campgrounds vary from primitive campsites to campsites with running water and showers. Most campgrounds are clearly marked on USFS and BLM maps. Camping outside of designated campgrounds is usually permitted on BLM and USFS lands. However, during fire season special regulations may apply and it will be necessary to obtain a fire permit from the USFS or BLM.
A reminder: private timber company land is open to public hunting without permission; however, it is closed to camping at all times.
Roughly 1,155 square miles
62% public land
Elevations range from 3,000 – 7,600 feet