Hunters discussing Nevada's Unit 071 generally report a good population of elk, with bulls averaging a size of 300–350, though locating them can require effort. There is interest in understanding hunt experiences, and hunters are eager to share insights via email, emphasizing the friendly and collaborative nature of this hunting community. The terrain can be challenging, as noted by a hunter who described a "brutal packout," and weather conditions, particularly when approaching the Idaho border, can influence game movement. Despite increased hunting pressure during firearm seasons, there's still optimism about opportunities for a successful elk hunt, especially with proper scouting and understanding of the unit's unique dynamics.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 180"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 350"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
High
Low
Bordering Idaho and west of the Jarbidge Wilderness, this unit is mostly covered by sagebrush and is home to mule deer, elk and pronghorn antelope. The north half is mostly Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The south is BLM and private and includes wilderness.
Elk have good populations in some places and bulls are rutting and bugling during archery and muzzleloader season. The late rifle season is best for hunting big bucks.
Some steep slopes are in Pine, Copper and Deer mountain ranges as well as in Rattlesnake and Bruneau River canyons. The rest of the unit is flat to moderately steep with deep and shallow drainages, rolling hills and benches. Copper Mountain sits in the central portion of the unit and is the highest point at 9,915 feet above mean sea level. The lowest land is along the Bruneau River in the northwest.
This unit is widely public with excellent vehicle access to nearly all regions. Hunters must hike or ride horses to reach some places, including Rough Hills Wilderness Study Area. Some private property is near Jarbidge in the northeast corner on the Diamond A Ranch, which is in the Diamond A Desert, which is largely BLM land. Private parcels also are in the Haystack Mountain and Island Mount areas in the southwest. Main roads lead to forest service and other primitive roads that lead to most ridges and canyons. Main routes include Mountain City Highway (State Route 227) in the southwest, Forest Road 037 in the west, Eco Road 746 in the south and Forest Road 071 in the north. Eco Road 746 branches from State Route 225 and leads west toward Charleston Reservoir. Deep snow can make Forest Road 037 impassable, but hunters often can drive from Idaho on Rowland Route or Jarbidge roads.
Sagebrush is the main ground cover, but dense patches of aspens and mountain mahoganies cover much terrain above 6,000 feet. Stands of bitterbrush, limber pines, serviceberries, tobacco brush, and choke cherries also grow in many places. Dense willlows and wet meadows are abundant in the bottoms of drainages.
Carry plenty of supplies, food, water and spare tires. Hunters may get motel rooms and general supplies in Mountain City, which is in the west on State Route 227. Motels and hotel-casinos are in Elko, Nevada. General supplies and fuel are available in Jarbidge to the east and Owyhee to the west. Public campsites are at Wild Horse Reservoir and Big Bend Campground. Camping is permitted almost anywhere on public lands.
Roughly 406 square miles
77.4% public land
Elevations from about 5,500 feet to about 9,915 feet