September Mule Deer in the High Country

[nathanieloutside]

Does anyone on here have experience backcountry bow hunting mulies in September in Washington in the high country? I’ve been searching the web specifically for people who have found success given that criteria and I haven’t really come across anything. I’ve been looking at success rates and e-scouting a lot. Not looking for a spot burn here, just looking for a few Washington specific tips and evidence that people in Washington have success hunting that way. Thanks!

[Kingofthemountain83]

@boneaddict

[Kingofthemountain83]

maybe I didn't do it right?  But from what I've seen in years past as a lurker I'd talk to him...    I'm sure there's a few others...

[Boss .300 winmag]

It can be done, you just have to do your high country work aka homework.

And yes bone has been very successful at it (traditional bow at that) do a search on here to see his bucks.

[nathanieloutside]

Awesome thank you @Kingofthemountain83

[jstone]

Find an away place off the main trails. Lots of popular trails busy and then bear season is going

[boneaddict]

I've had some success.   I don't e scout.   If you have any specific questions, I may or may not be able to help you.   

[basedacid]

I've been hunting high country blacktail/benchlegs on the Western slope in September, but haven't managed to seal the deal yet.

My approach has been to start from known mid-elevation rut areas. Work my way uphill towards likely bedding areas, following natural funnels created by the terrain. Once I'm in the alpine, I look for nearby benches and basins offering shade. Glassing these areas extensively in June/July has revealed a number of bucks.

What I'd appreciate advice on is how to close the distance for a shot... Stationary ground hunting near shade has been fruitless for me so far, and many of the basins I've found offer limited approaches due to their steepness.