Hunters discussing Unit 71 in Juniper, Oregon express concerns over inaccuracies in bull to cow and buck to doe ratios, suggesting possible typographical errors in official data. Despite confirmations from the state data indicating high ratios, local hunter feedback suggests these numbers may be inflated. The unit is seeing an increased presence of illegal off-road ATV activity, affecting mule deer availability and hunting conditions, with water scarcity further complicating hunts. The antelope harvest rates were reportedly at 0%, raising questions regarding potential closures or reporting errors; however, hunters note that the most effective hunting strategy remains spot and stalk, particularly near areas with water and feed, such as the eastern boundary.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 180"+ |
| Elk | 210"-240" | 250"+ |
| Antelope | 70"-75" | 80"+ |
| California Bighorn Sheep | 140"-150" | 170"+ |
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Containing part of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and part of Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, this high desert unit offers hunting for California bighorn sheep, mule deer, antelope and elk.
A good unit for antelope and California bighorn sheep hunting with representative and trophy-class animals.
Southeast of Burns, this unit is mostly flat desert, range and farm land with many deep draws and a few canyons. A few buttes and high ridges rise above the desert. A small percentage of the terrain is rugged enough to provide habitat for California bighorn sheep. Some slopes are topped by sheer bluffs. Marshy flats, plays, shallow desert lakes and swampy bottomlands are features of 187,757-acre Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and in and near the western edge of Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge.
Desert grasses, sagebrush, rabbitbrush and other desert bushes and forbs cover most of the land, which is dry and brown most of the year. Ponderosa pines, junipers, aspens, cottonwoods, chokecherries, serviceberries, bitterbrush and mahoganies grow in patches where water and soil are suitable.
Burns RV Park (phone: 541-573-7640) and several motels are in Burns, including the Silver Spur Motel and a couple of nationally franchised motels. Camping is allowed on the Hart Mountain refuge. Many hunters camp along dirt and gravel roads on BLM land. Crystal Crane Hot Springs offers, teepees, cabins, tent camping, RV sites and inns.
Roughly 2,925 square miles
89% public land
Elevations from 4,100-6,200 feet
Parts of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge are open during deer and antelope seasons. Hart Mountain National Wildlife Refuge is open to holders of tags specific to the refuge, including any weapon tags for California bighorn sheep and antelope, bow and muzzleloader tags for mule deer and antelope. For specifics, hunters may call the refuge at 541-947-2731. Most of the Juniper Unit is controlled by the BLM and is open to hunting. The DeGuire Access Area consists of 2,361 acres of private land that is leased by the state for public hunting and access. It borders Malheur NWF just northwest of Harney Lake and provides hunting for deer, pronghorns, waterfowl, pheasants and quail. Hunters must check in at an onsite kiosk. Starbuck Access Area is 16 miles west of Burns and provides access on 670 acres for hunters after deer, pronghorns, quail and pheasants.