Unit 34 in Idaho, part of the Sawtooth Elk Management Zone, presents challenges with fast-selling tags, especially for non-residents, who need to act quickly when tags go on sale December 1st. The 2017 Bearskin Wildfire and significant winter kill of deer and elk have possibly impacted wildlife numbers, suggesting hunters should adjust expectations and be ready to move between locations. Prospective hunters are advised to tap into local knowledge about specific areas like Crane Meadow and Bernard Peak and are encouraged to plan adaptive strategies and seek partnerships for better chances of success. New hunters, like one preparing for an overnight backpack style hunt, are encouraged to gear up, network with other hunters, and remain flexible, shifting locations if game is sparse.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-130" | 130"+ |
| Elk | 260"-290" | 300"+ |
High
Low
Hunters can buy over-the-counter tags to hunt mule deer, elk and whitetail in this unit, which borders the Middle Fork of the Salmon River and includes part of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. Muzzleloader hunters have to draw tags to hunt deer and elk in mid-to-late November.
This unit is managed to provide hunting opportunities for hunters who live within a 100-mile drive. Elk and deer numbers are rebounding from declines as officials take steps to manage predator numbers. Whitetail are low in numbers, but there are good numbers of elk.
Situated in the Salmon River Mountains in Boise and Valley counties, this unit is composed of mountainous terrain on the west side of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Deadwood Reservoir, Whitehawk Mountain and Bear Valley Mountain and part of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness can all be found in this unit. The steepest slopes are in the northeastern sector and along the western border of the unit. Several long, wide valleys with creeks winding through them have large meadows that draw elk and deer out of the mountains. Most of the big parks here are also near roads.
Pines, firs and spruces cover most of the ground. Most of the unit has been burned in forest fires, which left many standing and fallen trees behind. Brush, saplings, grass and forbs are growing in them, improving habitat for deer and elk. Some areas also have been heavily logged, similar leading to beneficial changes for big game. Some huge, grassy meadows are in Bear Valley and along several creeks, such as Elk Creek and Bearskin Creek. Some high mountain ridges along the western edge have a lot of exposed rock.
Roughly 445 square miles
99.9% public land
Elevations from 5,200-8,700 feet
Almost all land is public property in the Boise National Forest. The northeastern part of the unit is in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, where no vehicles are allowed except on forest roads that lead to Boundary Creek and Dagger Falls campgrounds. Hunters in Unit 34 are allowed to drive motorcycles on trails designated for their use.
Vehicle restrictions are detailed on the Loman Ranger District use map
ATVs can be driven on most dirt roads and some trails
Many miles of motorcycle trails
Four-wheel-drive is recommended
Hunters can camp anywhere on public land. Hunters are allowed to drive through part of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness to reach Dagger Falls Campground and Boundary Creek Campground on the northern edge of the unit. Five campgrounds are on the eastern and northern shores of Deadwood Reservoir. Other campgrounds in the area include Deer Flat Campground (free), Bear Valley Campground and Fir Creek Campground.