Hunters interested in Nevada's Unit 192 should note that while there is decent public land access in the southern part of the unit, deer populations are noticeably low due to harsh winter conditions impacting resident herds. The late archery and muzzleloader seasons have reported low success rates, with primarily young bucks spotted and fewer does than expected. Terrain varies up to 7000 feet, but without inclement weather, deer may remain at higher elevations, complicating hunt strategies. Hunters should be aware of considerable predator presence, such as lions and coyotes, which might affect game behavior and visibility. Actionable advice includes prioritizing earlier scouting at various elevations and considering predator impact on deer patterns.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 180"+ |
High
Low
Hunters find mule deer on the Carson Range, part of the Eldorado and Toiyabe National Forest, along with some private land.
Excellent hunting for resident deer as well as for bucks that migrate here from high mountains in California. Late archery season is popular. No antelope hunting takes place here.
Steep, rugged mountains in the Carson Range rise above the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. Most mountain land is federal land and is part of the Toiyabe and El Dorado national forests. At high elevations alpine meadows with rock cliffs and outcroppings can be found. East of the range are private agricultural lowlands that are drained by such sloughs as Williams, Park and Bull, Johnson, Rocky and Brockliss, which feed the Carson River northwest of Dresslerville. Above the agricultural valleys are moderately steep hills. At high elevations are alpine meadows with rock cliffs and outcroppings. South and southeast of Dresslerville are several thousand acres of Toiyabe National Forest hills and flats around Mud Lake. Private flats and hills stretch to Topaz Lake in the southeastern corner.
Private land comprises a large percentage of valley floors and low hills. The northern third of the unit is mostly Forest Service land with good road access. Around, but not bordering Mud Lake south of Dresslerville are several thousand acres of the Toiyabe National Forest. Jacks Valley Wildlife Management Area, administered by the Forest Service, is reached through gates on Highway 206 about 12 miles west of US 395. To reach benches above the Carson River in the south, drive from the east through Bodie Flat off US 395.
Main roads
Irrigated crop fields on valley floors along with willows, cottonwood trees and brush along rivers and streams. Leading from the valley into the moderately steep hills are stands of tall sagebrush with buckbrush, mahoganies, pinyons and scattered conifers. At upper elevations grow thick brush and tall pines with some upper alpine meadows and rock fields.
Lodging and other services are available at Carson City to the north, Gardnerville and South Lake Tahoe.
Roughly 202 square miles
36.8% public land
Elevations from 4,500-9,591 feet East Peak
Private property delays access to some public land
Numerous trailheads lead into public hunting grounds
Four-wheel-drive vehicles and ATVs can be helpful in some areas
Motorized vehicles are restricted in some places
US 395 is the eastern boundary
US 50 is the northern boundary
US 50 is part of the western boundary
No public campgrounds
Hunters may camp on the Toiyabe National Forest
Do not start a campfire without a Forest Service permit