GOHUNT's Unit 78 in Idaho seems to have some data overlap issues, particularly concerning the hunt codes for controlled deer hunts which affect draw odds projections. Hunters should note that the unit features both over-the-counter (OTC) and controlled hunts, with clear distinctions between archery and rifle opportunities—particularly for elk and mule deer hunts. The controlled tag allows hunting in both archery and rifle seasons, explaining the identical statistics across these methods. Despite frustrations about data clarity, experienced hunters offer valuable advice on the unit’s terrain and game availability, emphasizing areas to avoid due to the aftermath of a severe winter that affected deer populations. For optimal success, focus on localized scouting efforts and consult hunt-specific resources to validate current game behavior and habitat conditions.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 280"-300" | 310"+ |
High
Low
West of Bear Lake and bordering Utah, this area has a lot of elk and mule deer numbers. Elk tags are sold over the counter, but deer hunter numbers have lessened due to a limit on rifle tags.
This area can produce some big mule deer, but most hunters work hard to take medium-size bucks. Elk numbers are decent, but heavy hunting pressure does not leave a lot of mature bulls. Some bulls that travel between Idaho and Utah's North Cache can get to trophy size. Bowhunters can buy elk tags over-the-counter.
The western two-thirds of this area is public land in the Bear River Range in the Cache National Forest and is very forested, but not rugged. The eastern third is a strip of land varying from about 1-4 miles across and is private. A lot of the national forest land is steep. The southern border is Utah’s North Cache elk unit that produces a lot of mature bull elk.
Access to National Forest is good with public roads crossing private land on the eastern side of the Bear River Range. Good access points are St. Charles, Dry, Emigration, Fish Haven and The Green and Paris Canyons. Forest and ATV trails lead to interior sections, but game department rules only let ATVs on roads that can be used by full-size vehicles as well.
The national forest is covered in aspens, Douglas firs, Engelmann, blue spruces, subalpine firs, chokecherry bushes, mahoganies and grasses. The backbone of the Bear River Range is open in some places, and many grassy and brushy meadows and openings are scattered throughout the forest. Foothills are covered with sagebrush, bigtooth maple brush, mahoganies, junipers and scattered conifers and aspens.
Some hunters camp on National Forest land along four-wheel-drive or gravel roads. Lodging is available in Montpelier and at resorts near Bear Lake.
Roughly 246 square miles
72.4% public land
Elevations from 6,000-9,500 feet