Hunters in the Panguitch Lake, Utah area provide valuable insights into their experiences and strategies. Successful hunts were reported, with one hunter killing a bull on the fifth day after extensive on-foot scouting and overnight spike camps. The key takeaway is the necessity for mobility and adaptability, especially in rugged terrains, to find elk, primarily by glassing and tracking animal movements through canyons. Communication among hunters has been beneficial for planning and adjusting to draw odds and tag changes, highlighting the importance of sharing experiences to improve future hunts.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 320"-350" | 360"+ |
High
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A large unit with some excellent public hunting grounds. Topography and terrain vary from east to west, along with a big elevation change. There is lodging near most hunting areas.
Rifle season is typically during the rut, so hunters can find bulls easily by listening for bugles. Deep timber makes hunting difficult, but bulls will be in the open during their rut activities. During the peak of the rut, hunters can look over many bulls.
The elk terrain in this unit is big country with deep canyons and large, flat openings full of sagebrush. Deep timber covers the mountainsides and some steep canyons can also be found here.
Plenty of public roads and four-wheel-drive trails can take you to a starting point in any part of this unit. Private land does not significantly delay access. Cedar Breaks National Monument in the west is closed to hunting.
Ponderosa pines and aspens are at high elevations. Sagebrush and pinyon/juniper cover can be found at low to middle elevations. Willows grow wherever there’s enough water.
RV parks and motels are available in Panguitch as well as near Panguitch Lake. Both sites are close to hunting grounds. Cedar City also offers lodging and services to hunters but is further from hunting grounds.
Roughly 882 square miles
80% public land
Elevations from 7,500-10,500 feet
Maps and GPS units help hunters to avoid hunting on National Monument land
Hunters can choose from a variety of places to hunt due to good access
Roads to almost all hunting grounds
Most private land is in the east
Camping allowed on public lands
Grocery and general stores in Panguitch and near Panguitch Lake