2016 Blue Mtns foothills west tag

[ellusivebull]

I haven't been on here in a long while and don't post much when I am.  Figured since I finally drew a decent tag I might as well start.  I live on the west side and haven't spent a ton of time in the area.  I was hoping I might be able to get some starter information. I know there are lots of deer.  I'm not sure which gmu's might be better then others. Any help would be great.  Thanks in advance.

[cem3434]

It's all about access to private land or getting away from others on the public land. Start knocking on some doors this summer and you will do fine.

[ellusivebull]

That is part of my plan.  Thanks for replying.

[jackelope]

Which gmu you hunt will be dictated by how you fare securing access to private land. If you do, hunt there. If you don't, your options will be limited.

[csaaphill]

Being from that area and hunted those areas all my life There area  few feel free to hunt signs around as well. But yes you will have to gain, or try to gain access to private land. Lots of grumpy people to, but still some decent ones as well.

[steeleywhopper]

Find the does and stick with them, sooner or later a buck or two will show up to check on them. Get in shape, walking through those plowed wheat fields and up those steep draws will take it's toll on a guy. Good luck on your hunt, it should be a good one. Don't forget to bring the grunt tube and antlers as well.

[splitshot]

   is this a whitetail buck hunt?  I drew that tag and saw some monster mule bucks and finally got a nice whitey.  like cem said knock on doors and talk to people.  I found some good info in several bars.  don't be shy about settin them up.  mike w

[ellusivebull]

Thank you to all that have replied. I'll be working on securing some ground from now until then. I am leaning towards the Dayton unit right now. That's the only place I have spent much time in.

[splitshot]

I think the Dayton is hunted the hardest of the unit.  jmho.   mike w

[cem3434]

Our group drew the tag as well and we plan on hunting Dayton because I have access to about 600 acres of private land. We still plan on knocking on doors and finding other areas to hunt because we don't want to be limited to one area, especially if the weather is bad or the rut isn't in full swing.

[Euro mount]

I know all these units very well why don't you pm me an I will give you good info ... My 18 year old son an I have the muzzleloader tag right after your hunt ends.

[JackLink]

I haven't been on here in a long while and don't post much when I am.  Figured since I finally drew a decent tag I might as well start.  I live on the west side and haven't spent a ton of time in the area.  I was hoping I might be able to get some starter information. I know there are lots of deer.  I'm not sure which gmu's might be better then others. Any help would be great.  Thanks in advance.

Any of the BMFH tags are great hunts! Ive personally had the BMFH muzzy tag. My first suggestion would be to purchase the Hunt By On X Maps App. This app will provide you with the ability to sort out public vs private ground. Also utilize the WDFW hunt by reservation program. I've read a lot of negative chatter about the program but my experience with it is positive.
GMU 166 probably offers the most public ground to hunt. GMU 149 can be a sleeper but is probably my favorite with a few dandy's roaming the open country!👍
Good luck on your hunt -AP

[ellusivebull]

Headed that way for a couple days next week. Hope to gather up some info.

[EKU]

I'm sure you will already do this, but make sure the first thing you tell landowners is this is a late tag (special draw).  Most landowners in this area won't give permission for general rifle but might allow some access for the late hunt.

[ellusivebull]

I'm sure you will already do this, but make sure the first thing you tell landowners is this is a late tag (special draw).  Most landowners in this area won't give permission for general rifle but might allow some access for the late hunt.

Thanks for the reminder.

Joey