Unit 16A in Idaho presents challenging hunting conditions, with hunters frequently mentioning factors like smoke, high temperatures, and gated trails due to past restrictions. Reports indicate low deer sightings but say there is elk and predator activity, such as wolves, which some hunters attribute to declining game populations. The unit is described as tough and demanding, particularly for spot-and-stalk hunting due to rugged terrain and weather variances, with suggestions to consider early October hunts for better conditions. Hunters are advised to prepare for diverse wildlife, including bears and wolves, and benefit from obtaining additional tags. Many show interest in collaborative communication, reflecting a supportive hunting community eager to share insights and advice.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-140" | 140"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
High
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This entirely public unit offers elk, mule deer and whitetail deer hunting in the mountainous Nez Perce National Forest and around the Meadow Creek roadless area. This unit also includes about 30,000 acres of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.
Hunters who buy over-the-counter rifle tags can hunt bull elk during the rut and also in October and November. Hunters rarely take a trophy size mule deer or whitetail deer, but enjoy a long season. Bull rifle tags are limited and sold first-come, first-served.
About 85% of the unit is composed of mountainous terrain outside the wilderness. Most ridges are 5,000 to 6,000 in altitude, and the higher peaks are just more than 7,000 feet above sea level. The sides of the river canyons are typically steep and rugged. Just north of the unit boundary, Meadow Creek starts above 6,000 feet in the south end and flows north until it drains into the Selway River at about 1,700 feet above sea level.
No motorized or wheeled vehicles are allowed in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, which takes up about 15% of the unit in the northeast part. Most other land is roadless but is not designated wilderness. Anderson Butte Recreation Trail runs along the western edge of the unit, while the Highline Ridge trail runs along the eastern edge. Middle Fork of the Clearwater River Wild and Scenic River flows along the northern edge. Several trails from Unit 15 to the southwest lead into Unit 16A.
A lot of this area is covered by a mixture of pines, firs, cedars and spruces. Some burns are fresh enough that only brush and grass grow in them, but others have been taken over by saplings and dense trees. The heads of some drainages have scattered trees, grassy meadows and hills and brush patches. Bear grass, also called elk grass, and low forage quality covers much ground beneath old growth timber.
Roughly 280 square miles
100% public land
Elevations from 2,500-7,800 feet
ATVs are not necessary
Four-wheel drive is recommended
For some hunters it can be more effective to camp in the backcountry. A lot of this area is too remote for backpacking, especially for elk hunters. Hunters without horses should consider hiring an outfitter. Selway Falls Campground is just north of the unit and has several campsites.