Idaho Unit 10A Whitetails

[3nails]

 Here is what has been my observation in 10A and NW Montana. Before the takeover of wolves, deer and elk were dispersed fairly evenly over their terrain. Since the takeover, wolves will settle into an area and devour the majority of animals in that area or drive them out. They will then move to where the deer and elk fled to and begin to work them there. Because of this, deer and elk will be found in pockets. I have found that every year I need to find the pockets to have a good hunt. They more than likely won't be in the same area year by year. 

[elkboy]

Don't forget two years of bluetongue virus (even though there was less mortality at higher elevations)!  There are also areas in large patches of forest cover up there where there will be fewer whitetails, just due to distance to good foraging.  I would look for riparian areas or forested wetlands with abundant willow, birch, etc.  Clearcuts can be good, if there is good cover in herbs.   

[ribka]

Don't forget two years of bluetongue virus (even though there was less mortality at higher elevations)!  There are also areas in large patches of forest cover up there where there will be fewer whitetails, just due to distance to good foraging.  I would look for riparian areas or forested wetlands with abundant willow, birch, etc.  Clearcuts can be good, if there is good cover in herbs.

Plus the increased hunting pressure from the internets

If you find good out of state areas I wouldn't advertise specifics on the internet imo

[trophyhunt]

Don't forget two years of bluetongue virus (even though there was less mortality at higher elevations)!  There are also areas in large patches of forest cover up there where there will be fewer whitetails, just due to distance to good foraging.  I would look for riparian areas or forested wetlands with abundant willow, birch, etc.  Clearcuts can be good, if there is good cover in herbs.

Plus the increased hunting pressure from the internets

If you find good out of state areas I wouldn't advertise specifics on the internet imo

[TriggerMike]

I saw a ton of fresh sign everywhere I went, just not a ton of animals.

[HookedOnQuack]

I was wondering why i never saw your truck Trophy! thats quuite the crappy ordeal. The pioneer does have good food but like you said be prepared to be patient, ever since Sammy sold that and the grocery store they both have went downhill

[HookedOnQuack]

Funny you mentioned that you thought the deer numbers were down because all summer long we couldnt believe how many deer we were seeing when out scouting and checking cams! I think the bigger reason this year was the crazy warm weather and the insane amount of people! My dad and his buddies have been going since '89 and me since about 96-97 and the people this year was unbelievable. Ive never had more people ride past my quad and within 50' of my tree stand before noticing me in my life. Our group went 9-12 with a couple nice mature deer and a few monsters that were missed but cant wait til next year myself as well!