Hunters reflecting on Unit 172 in Nevada offer valuable insight into the importance of water sources, with a strong emphasis on hunting at strategic times such as early morning and late evening when antelope are most active. Comments highlight the abundance of BLM land, making ground accessibility appealing, albeit challenging due to scattered antelope populations and rocky terrain that can complicate stalking. Previous experiences suggest focusing efforts on the northern part of the unit and utilizing available irrigation fields. For non-resident hunters, the limited number of tags and high success rates indicate a promising opportunity, provided scouting is conducted efficiently despite any logistics challenges like those faced during the pandemic.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 270"-310" | 310"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 80"+ |
High
Low
This mostly public unit includes the Shoshone Mountains in the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest and some private property on valley floors. Hunters who hunt here can avoid the hunting crowd that usually forms in Unit 173.
A growing number of elk inhabit Unit 173, which borders on the south.
Both sides of the Shoshone Mountains rise gradually from low-lying valleys, which are mostly brush but also include a few crop fields. Mountains in the range have steep and moderately steep slopes.
Mostly public roads, ranging from maintained gravel roads to four-wheel-drive and ATV trails, lead to good places to start hunting.
Main roads:
Large sagebrush valleys lead into 6,000-7,500 foot hills covered with pinyon pines and juniper trees. From about 7,500 to 8,500 feet open sagebrush basins with some aspen pockets along water sources lie below ridges lined with mahogany and rock outcroppings. Above 8,500 feet are vertical ridges and mountains, steep cliffs and rock formations.
Hunters can find lodging, restaurants and fuel in Austin in the north and Tonopah in the south. Middlegate Station on Highway 50 also have services. Camping spots for RVs as well as tents are along both sides of the Shoshone Range. Backpack hunters can set up spike camps in the high country, but some water sources are intermittent.
Roughly 598 square miles
96.9% public land
Elevations mostly 6,000-10,000 feet
Private property does not impede access to public land.
Horses can be an asset.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles and ATVs are important
Highway 722 in the north
Highway 21 in the east