Hunters in Unit 081, Nevada, are expressing a strong desire for shared insights and advice due to the complexity and potential challenges posed by this area, especially during the late rifle and November archery mule deer hunts. The terrain's possible harsh weather conditions, including extreme snow and severe mud, are significant considerations that could necessitate alternative plans such as considering professional guiding, although cost is a deterrent for some. There is a common theme of seeking direct communication and personal experiences to enhance DIY hunting success, indicating that firsthand scouting and consultation with local biologists and wardens remain crucial strategies. Overall, there's an emphasis on the importance of preparation and flexibility, with hunters eager to learn from past experiences to optimize their own efforts in this challenging unit.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 180"+ |
| Elk | 300"-340" | 350"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-70" | 70"+ |
High
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Located in the very northeast corner of Nevada, this unit has rolling hill country with many burns and open sage-covered terrain. Deer seasons are later in the year than most other units to accommodate the migration into the unit from Utah and Idaho and the neighboring Nevada units. Later deer seasons can require snow chains or snow machines to get around. Big bull elk can also be found within the unit.
On years with good snowfall in November and hunting pressure from other areas, the deer migration can move a high population of bucks in this unit. Resident deer are also found within the unit, but the migration will make the hunt better. The November archery season is a great time to chase bucks in the rut. Some of the migrating deer will not spend multiple days in the same area so hunters should not count on returning to harvest a buck later in the season.
Most of the unit is gentle, rolling terrain and is not physically challenging to hike. Long draws, ridges and hillsides are found throughout the unit across the low mountain ranges. Delano Peak represents the highest point within the unit at nearly 7,850 feet. Montello in the southern end of the unit is the lowest point at 4,900 feet. Several high points found within the unit provide good glassing vantage points. Some of the unit has long slopes with good feed that are easy to glass.
Hunter access is good across nearly all of the unit. The Winecup Ranch owns property within the unit and limits access, but most of the unit is easily accessed by vehicle or ATV/UTV on the many roads found. The majority of the unit is public land. Various primitive roads may be difficult to access, especially in the late seasons during snowy conditions. Tire chains are often necessary in snow. In some cases, snowmobiles are helpful to access parts of the unit during the late seasons.
Some of the unit has been burned in recent year and now provides good feed for game. Pinyon and juniper stands are found in many parts of the unit and can be thick in some locations making glassing challenging. Sagebrush covers most of the unit. Some areas have small stands of mountain mahoganies and aspen trees in the highest elevations. Desert shrub can be found in the lower valley bottoms.
Montello provides the only services close to the unit. A very limited number of rooms are available and a small store has limited supplies and fuel. Jackpot also has services, but is found further from the unit. Hunters can camp anywhere on public land.
Roughly 663 square miles
75.8% public land
Elevations from about 4,900-7,850 feet