At a Glance
546Square Miles
86.4%Public Land
7,900 - 13,375Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Consider staying in a Gunnison motels in late seasons
- Waunita Hot Springs is worth visiting
- Rainbow and brown trout in Tomichi Creek
Hunters discussing Colorado's Unit 551 mention its challenging terrain but emphasize the rewarding hunting opportunities it offers for those well-prepared for its rugged landscapes. The unit is noted for its variable seasonality, requiring adaptable strategies and careful planning, especially regarding weather conditions and game movement patterns. Opinions are mixed on draw odds and game density, with some hunters finding success through persistence and thorough scouting. Overall, the consensus suggests that diligent research and readiness to adapt to the unit's demanding conditions can lead to a successful hunting experience.
A few miles east of Gunnison, this unit encompasses part of the Sawatch Range and the Cochetopa Hills along the Continental Divide. Hunters must apply to get prime mule deer tags, while they must apply for some elk tags and can buy others over the counter.
Game managers are working to reduce elk herds and build mule deer numbers. Deer hunting is better north of U.S. Highway 50 and big bull elk hunting is better south of U.S. Highway 50. There is mostly public land with good public access.