Post by: Schmalzfam on June 22, 2025, 06:11:02 PM
Anybody else draw this tag?
It's helpful to have others to reach out to in case anyone gets in a bind.
Post by: Wingin it on June 22, 2025, 07:26:49 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 22, 2025, 07:48:31 PM
The deer numbers certainly are not what they used to be and nobody can argue that. However, there are still some stud bucks in the unit. Dedicate as much time as you can to the hunt and be patient. Hope for weather too. If you do get some weather and grind at it you should be able to turn up something good. I’m envious, I’ve spent many years hunting that area and hope to have that tag again before I’m done. Good luck!
Thank you!
You'll get the tag. Best wishes, that you get drawn next year.
Post by: MADMAX on June 22, 2025, 08:46:52 PM
Good luck
Kill a toad 👍
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 22, 2025, 09:46:55 PM
Great fun tag
Good luck
Kill a toad 👍
Thank you!! I hope to get a toad, something with character.
Post by: Tschaefer72 on June 23, 2025, 12:41:25 AM
Give it your best and enjoy it!
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 23, 2025, 05:25:20 AM
Congrats on the tag. Stunning beautiful country. I had the tag a few years ago. It was blue skies and sunshine the whole season. Still a ton of fun and one of my favorite hunts.
Give it your best and enjoy it!
Thank you! So much country to cover there. Hunting during the late season is fun. I'm excited.
Post by: huntnphool on June 23, 2025, 11:24:06 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 24, 2025, 05:36:10 AM
Congrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!
Thank you☺️
Post by: blindluck on June 28, 2025, 05:47:09 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 28, 2025, 06:44:57 PM
Congrats, there are some real hammers there, good luck
I hope to find one! Thank you 😊
Post by: Kingofthemountain83 on June 28, 2025, 06:51:09 PM
Post by: MADMAX on June 28, 2025, 07:08:53 PM
He hunted hard and passed plenty of good bucks trying to find him again on public land
Post by: teanawayslayer on June 29, 2025, 06:29:48 AM
Congrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 29, 2025, 07:51:40 AM
This one was the biggest we saw when my buddy had it
He hunted hard and passed plenty of good bucks trying to find him again on public land
Thanks for sharing the picture.What year was it? What area did you guys stick to?
It will be a fun hunt!
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 29, 2025, 08:00:08 AM
Congrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Thank you!! I am super excited. I love being in the woods during the late season.
I believe a guy got a big one, during the regular season a couple years back. The one that was pictured on a jeep?
Post by: teanawayslayer on June 29, 2025, 08:36:21 AM
I think that buck came out of the general area but not ChewuchCongrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Thank you!! I am super excited. I love being in the woods during the late season.
I believe a guy got a big one, during the regular season a couple years back. The one that was pictured on a jeep?
Post by: elkaholic123 on June 29, 2025, 08:39:45 AM
Pearrygin I believe!I think that buck came out of the general area but not ChewuchCongrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Thank you!! I am super excited. I love being in the woods during the late season.
I believe a guy got a big one, during the regular season a couple years back. The one that was pictured on a jeep?
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 30, 2025, 07:29:02 AM
Pearrygin I believe!I think that buck came out of the general area but not ChewuchCongrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Thank you!! I am super excited. I love being in the woods during the late season.
I believe a guy got a big one, during the regular season a couple years back. The one that was pictured on a jeep?
So not the big buck you were speaking of. Yes, you're right. This one was on the opposite side of the road that separates the 2 GMU's.
Post by: MADMAX on June 30, 2025, 07:53:38 AM
This one was the biggest we saw when my buddy had it
He hunted hard and passed plenty of good bucks trying to find him again on public land
Thanks for sharing the picture.What year was it? What area did you guys stick to?
It will be a fun hunt!
We were there 2021
He wanted a big specific buck posted earlier
Saw the most bucks on Rendevous
Met about 4 or 5 tag holders showed them bucks we weren’t interested in.
Never fired a round and ate the tag
I had it myself I think 2013 or 2014, I shot a decent 4x4 on day 11 and a bear same day, really fun time to be up there
Use your optics, know your legal public boundaries especially Rendevous area
Find the does.
Post by: Ridgerunner on June 30, 2025, 10:55:35 AM
Reality is most guys don't shoot high scoring deer on these WA Quality hunts, there are better states to do that in for sure. These hunts can still be amazing and memorable even if you don't shoot the biggest one on the mountain. I know the one I had over 20 years ago was, even though the buck only scored in the 140's.
Post by: 2MANY on June 30, 2025, 12:33:15 PM
That being said these Skagit folks kill some big deer over there.
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 30, 2025, 10:06:33 PM
I was hoping to avoid the Rendezvous area, well mainly the Gunn Road. I know a lot are taken there. There are some great areas around there, but yes property boundaries are huge there.
That's a beautiful bear, too.
I'm excited!
I was really hoping someone else held this tag too! Not yet, on here so far.
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 30, 2025, 10:16:24 PM
Here's my opinion on these late tags. Throw score out the window, go in and plan on hunting hard, enjoy hunting muleys in the rut with minimal competition and when you find a buck you like kill it so you have a tangible reminder of the great time that you had on this tag that probably took decades to draw.
Reality is most guys don't shoot high scoring deer on these WA Quality hunts, there are better states to do that in for sure. These hunts can still be amazing and memorable even if you don't shoot the biggest one on the mountain. I know the one I had over 20 years ago was, even though the buck only scored in the 140's.
Very well said!
I will not pass on one that I feel is right or worked my rear off to get to. If I have.a plan or feeling about a certain area, hike in and it all comes together, for me that is a huge accomplishment. I love a great story to go with every animal.
We will be over during the general season, so my boyfriend can hunt . Reading your post helps take a bit of pressure off myself, when I can put it in that perspective. I appreciate that.
It will be a fun season for sure. Thank you again!
Post by: Schmalzfam on June 30, 2025, 10:17:55 PM
Exactly.
That being said these Skagit folks kill some big deer over there.
Yes!! yes, they have.
Post by: huntnphool on June 30, 2025, 10:24:54 PM
I think that buck came out of the general area but not ChewuchCongrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Thank you!! I am super excited. I love being in the woods during the late season.
I believe a guy got a big one, during the regular season a couple years back. The one that was pictured on a jeep?
Correct
Post by: huntnphool on June 30, 2025, 10:27:22 PM
Congrats on the tag, the unit is still a top prospect for a quality buck!didnt someone shoot a 200+ buck in there a couple years back?
Correct
Post by: mountainman on July 02, 2025, 08:48:35 AM
Post by: doubledroptinedreamer on August 14, 2025, 10:47:41 AM
Post by: High Climber on August 14, 2025, 11:01:15 AM
Rendevous last year, Gunn road. They are thereGot any more angles of that buck?!
Post by: Sakko300wsm on August 14, 2025, 12:01:00 PM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
Just don’t pray for too much snow - I had the tag in 22 and got almost 3’ of snow in about 24hrs , pretty much destroyed the hunt at that point
Post by: HikerHunter on August 14, 2025, 02:59:52 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on August 16, 2025, 09:01:54 AM
Post by: link on August 16, 2025, 03:37:40 PM
Yea, that made it rough. I couldn't get to where I had been hunting and had to drop down to hunt little less familiar areas. The deer were down there too, I just couldn't find a big one. Nothing for me.My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
Just don’t pray for too much snow - I had the tag in 22 and got almost 3’ of snow in about 24hrs , pretty much destroyed the hunt at that point
Post by: Schmalzfam on August 17, 2025, 01:36:10 PM
Seeing the posts and hearing other people's previous tag situations has been a great insight. I'm excited!
Praying for, just enough snow. 😁
I was hoping someone else on here drew the same tag, but no reply on that yet.
This Saturday we hiked in to check out some unfamiliar areas.
--if only cougar was open!!
Keep sharing the stories and insight, I appreciate it bunches!!!😊
Post by: huntnphool on August 19, 2025, 12:44:51 PM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
Just don’t pray for too much snow - I had the tag in 22 and got almost 3’ of snow in about 24hrs , pretty much destroyed the hunt at that point
That was a once in 50+ year event, I’d not count on seeing another early November snow event like that anytime soon. I had a tag that year too, talked to several guys that gave up and went home.
Post by: Mtnwalker on August 19, 2025, 01:27:29 PM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
Just don’t pray for too much snow - I had the tag in 22 and got almost 3’ of snow in about 24hrs , pretty much destroyed the hunt at that point
That was a once in 50+ year event, I’d not count on seeing another early November snow event like that anytime soon. I had a tag that year too, talked to several guys that gave up and went home.
:yeah: That snow made getting around tough for a few days and it moved some deer down but by no means was it a hunt killer, couldn't believe guys were calling it. 4 or 5 days later we were back up hunting close to 5000' again and still seeing deer. Killed my buck on a south facing slope around 4500' a week after the storm and it was ankle deep
Post by: bigmacc on August 21, 2025, 03:33:19 PM
Post by: HntnFsh on August 21, 2025, 04:10:20 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on August 21, 2025, 09:37:22 PM
What a great memory to have. It can turn so fast. I am so excited!
Post by: bigmacc on August 23, 2025, 04:01:42 PM
Thanks for sharing your story, those are the best!!Thank you. I believe it was the first couple days in November or the last couple days of October :dunno, general season at that time. Remember, that was 50 plus years ago also👍 It’s definitely changed, when the migration does hit nowadays those big groups/herds have been deminished to a trickle unfortunately. Yet there are still a few big fellas in there.
What a great memory to have. It can turn so fast. I am so excited!
Good luck to you and keep us posted👍 Also, make sure you have a cougar tag in your pocket, there’s plenty.
Post by: Schmalzfam on August 23, 2025, 11:40:53 PM
Thanks for sharing your story, those are the best!!Thank you. I believe it was the first couple days in November or the last couple days of October :dunno, general season at that time. Remember, that was 50 plus years ago also👍 It’s definitely changed, when the migration does hit nowadays those big groups/herds have been deminished to a trickle unfortunately. Yet there are still a few big fellas in there.
What a great memory to have. It can turn so fast. I am so excited!
Good luck to you and keep us posted👍 Also, make sure you have a cougar tag in your pocket, there’s plenty.
I will definitely keep you posted! We have been scouting a lot this season. Well, more just hiking for glassing spots, seeing what roads are open vs closed, what roads are no longer passable due to washouts and getting reacquainted with the area. It's been a few years. Last weekend when we were there 2 cougars came up the draw. They were screaming back and forth. Of course it's not open, so we had to just watch them pass on through.
That was mid-day, too. I will make sure to carry all my available tags (bear and cougar)!
The numbers are less. I would've loved to have seen the area in the good ole days. Were the moose as plentiful then, as they are now? We have seen a lot in that area. That is pretty cool!
Thanks for the good luck wishes!! 😊
Post by: eskimo on August 29, 2025, 11:03:26 AM
Post by: boneaddict on August 29, 2025, 11:38:46 AM
Post by: bigmacc on August 29, 2025, 03:26:35 PM
No, the moose is a fairly new thing. I mean they have been there and an occasional elk, but there has definitely been a surge of numbersThis👆
Post by: Schmalzfam on August 30, 2025, 09:33:01 PM
Your PM inbox is full .Call me Bob (360)303-9516Hello Bob,
I cleaned up my inbox. I had no idea it was full. Sorry about that.
Post by: no.cen.wa on September 01, 2025, 08:55:14 AM
Sadly with the the Department.of Wildlife favorites, wolves, cougars and anything that can screw up deer hunting has changed it all.
I would caution you that weather can really change fast. We camped at 5600 feet and were run out a few times with snow, 2 feet of snow can change everything. as I said we were in the northern end of Chewuck.
One thing that surprised us was the amount of moose we saw in the first 10 years up there. They were everywhere. That changed over time and see very few now. Mostly none.
Good luck on your hunt, best time to be there for sure!
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 01, 2025, 07:48:50 PM
Good for you on your Chewuck tag. Our group has hunted that area since 2007, mostly the northern portion. We moved form Perrygin to Chewuck after the Tripod fire. It was a great move, many times tagging out for our group. Just like you said though, not as good as it used to be. But, should be a great late tag area. We hunted mostly from Thirty mile area to Corral Butte, Longswamp, Hikey Hump, and a few times to Windy Peak. Of course many more areas up there.
Sadly with the the Department.of Wildlife favorites, wolves, cougars and anything that can screw up deer hunting has changed it all.
I would caution you that weather can really change fast. We camped at 5600 feet and were run out a few times with snow, 2 feet of snow can change everything. as I said we were in the northern end of Chewuck.
One thing that surprised us was the amount of moose we saw in the first 10 years up there. They were everywhere. That changed over time and see very few now. Mostly none.
Good luck on your hunt, best time to be there for sure!
Thank you! I love that area. It is a place the weather does turn quick. I had the queer creek area in mind. I haven't been to that exact location, but near there up wild horse creek. I have a feeling though, that those places will be hard to reach in November. The deer in that location aren't as plentiful, in our experience. The ones you do find are usually nice bucks though. The country there is beautiful!
I am hoping to put my hands on a map with the four migration routes, for the Chewuch. If anyone has one, I would appreciate it.
I'm very surprised nobody else on here has spoke up about drawing too.
I agree about the wolves and cougar numbers. I haven't seen a wolf yet there, but I have seen sign. I saw a lot of sign in an area we were in a few weeks back. It's not a good feeling.
I am excited to have the opportunity and I know regardless of the outcome, I will have an amazing time.
Thank you again.
Post by: no.cen.wa on September 01, 2025, 08:42:15 PM
I went up Queer Creek last year,(east side) trying to get where I shot the 300 pounder. I couldn't get there. all the trees that where left after the Tri Pod fire where on the ground. It was impossible to get though it. I don't know how you could get a deer out. I was walking on downed trees 3-4 deep and 3-4 feet off the ground.
Hope you can find a way in there. The late hunt may be the ticket! Good luck!
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 01, 2025, 08:57:13 PM
Ok yes, Queer Creek! We took some real big bucks out of there a few years back. My Brother-in-law got one, on the west side of Queer Creek, 35 inches wide that scored 206, best part was it was all down hill to the road, he got his truck, came back down the road, backed up to the bank where I pulled it down into the back of the truck and we got outa there before anyone saw it.(my son got a 30" one up behind Coral Butte the year before and people saw us bring up out of a hell hole to the truck. for the rest of the season it looked like a Seattle freeway with all the rigs and hunters in that area. I got one on the east side of Queer Creek toward Hicky Hump. It had huge thick horns, but only 4x3,,, with some stickers, 25". it weighed in at just over 300 lbs,
I went up Queer Creek last year,(east side) trying to get where I shot the 300 pounder. I couldn't get there. all the trees that where left after the Tri Pod fire where on the ground. It was impossible to get though it. I don't know how you could get a deer out. I was walking on downed trees 3-4 deep and 3-4 feet off the ground.
Hope you can find a way in there. The late hunt may be the ticket! Good luck!
Sounds like you guys have had some good seasons up there. Those deer were hogs. Fallen trees make things very hard for sure. That has happened to us a lot! We have found it to be very beneficial to use our backpacks and quarter deer up. Stinks, because you can't hang it whole or get every scrap, like if you were to process it at home/camp.
Even, backcountry camping with our packs on can be a challenge with the downed trees. I will admit, I have found myself in the turtle position a couple times. Help, I've fallen moments. 😁
But, makes for some good stories, just like you have. Have a great season. Maybe, we will see you up there!
Post by: doubledroptinedreamer on September 03, 2025, 12:27:30 PM
Good for you on your Chewuck tag. Our group has hunted that area since 2007, mostly the northern portion. We moved form Perrygin to Chewuck after the Tripod fire. It was a great move, many times tagging out for our group. Just like you said though, not as good as it used to be. But, should be a great late tag area. We hunted mostly from Thirty mile area to Corral Butte, Longswamp, Hikey Hump, and a few times to Windy Peak. Of course many more areas up there.
Sadly with the the Department.of Wildlife favorites, wolves, cougars and anything that can screw up deer hunting has changed it all.
I would caution you that weather can really change fast. We camped at 5600 feet and were run out a few times with snow, 2 feet of snow can change everything. as I said we were in the northern end of Chewuck.
One thing that surprised us was the amount of moose we saw in the first 10 years up there. They were everywhere. That changed over time and see very few now. Mostly none.
Good luck on your hunt, best time to be there for sure!
Thank you! I love that area. It is a place the weather does turn quick. I had the queer creek area in mind. I haven't been to that exact location, but near there up wild horse creek. I have a feeling though, that those places will be hard to reach in November. The deer in that location aren't as plentiful, in our experience. The ones you do find are usually nice bucks though. The country there is beautiful!
I am hoping to put my hands on a map with the four migration routes, for the Chewuch. If anyone has one, I would appreciate it.
I'm very surprised nobody else on here has spoke up about drawing too.
I agree about the wolves and cougar numbers. I haven't seen a wolf yet there, but I have seen sign. I saw a lot of sign in an area we were in a few weeks back. It's not a good feeling.
I am excited to have the opportunity and I know regardless of the outcome, I will have an amazing time.
Thank you again.
I guess you didn't see my response from August 14th, but I did say that my dad and I also drew the 2025 Chewuch Quality Tag.
Sounds like you're getting lots of good scouting in.
Post by: OutHouse on September 03, 2025, 12:37:40 PM
Ok yes, Queer Creek! We took some real big bucks out of there a few years back. My Brother-in-law got one, on the west side of Queer Creek, 35 inches wide that scored 206, best part was it was all down hill to the road, he got his truck, came back down the road, backed up to the bank where I pulled it down into the back of the truck and we got outa there before anyone saw it.(my son got a 30" one up behind Coral Butte the year before and people saw us bring up out of a hell hole to the truck. for the rest of the season it looked like a Seattle freeway with all the rigs and hunters in that area. I got one on the east side of Queer Creek toward Hicky Hump. It had huge thick horns, but only 4x3,,, with some stickers, 25". it weighed in at just over 300 lbs,
I went up Queer Creek last year,(east side) trying to get where I shot the 300 pounder. I couldn't get there. all the trees that where left after the Tri Pod fire where on the ground. It was impossible to get though it. I don't know how you could get a deer out. I was walking on downed trees 3-4 deep and 3-4 feet off the ground.
Hope you can find a way in there. The late hunt may be the ticket! Good luck!
Post pics of these bucks to get Shmalzfam and the rest of us excited!!!
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 03, 2025, 06:18:14 PM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
I see it now. 😂 Sorry about that. I'm not sure how I missed it. Sounds like you have spent a lot of time there. I'm glad some other knowledgeable people will be there! 😁 I'm excited. We have been over just checking out roads etc. Things will be different come late October - the end of the tag. Best of luck to you. I hope we run into you and you're dragging out a nice buck! Are you staying the entire time?
Post by: bigmacc on September 03, 2025, 06:53:42 PM
Or at least be vague . If you have a………hole or “an area” keep it close.
Post by: doubledroptinedreamer on September 03, 2025, 08:16:41 PM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
I see it now. 😂 Sorry about that. I'm not sure how I missed it. Sounds like you have spent a lot of time there. I'm glad some other knowledgeable people will be there! 😁 I'm excited. We have been over just checking out roads etc. Things will be different come late October - the end of the tag. Best of luck to you. I hope we run into you and you're dragging out a nice buck! Are you staying the entire time?
No worries! Due to other hunts that we have planned in November, we are only hunting the first 10 days of the tag. I’d love to hunt the last half but oh well. I think we should be able to tag out in that amount of time.
I haven’t got to spend much time in the northern part of the Unit since we had been hunting whitetail when we were there before. We saw a lot of fresh wolf sign up Eight Mile last year.
Post by: 2MANY on September 03, 2025, 10:36:00 PM
………… carefully folks. PMs are not a bad thing. Just saying.
Or at least be vague . If you have a………hole or “an area” keep it close.
Times have changed.
Unbelievable.
Post by: no.cen.wa on September 04, 2025, 10:28:56 PM
we tried everything up there.
I hope the late tag will be good, but even our hikes up to Windy Peak have netted nothing in the last 6-8 years and we see hardly a deer up there.
So, we are packing up and heading back down to the methow. We are some of the last that have hunted there since 2007 to bail out.
I hope it changes
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 05, 2025, 06:08:57 PM
One thing I can say for sure, I won't be going up to the areas I talked about. Maybe a late hunt will be good but regular season absolutely not. Besides all the crap on the ground, the reprod is 8 to 20 feet high and you can't see much. when the tripod fire was moving, the forest service started back burns 200 yards or so on the north side of the road. the fire never got there. it turned another way. Besides that the deer harvest is dismal at best.
we tried everything up there.
I hope the late tag will be good, but even our hikes up to Windy Peak have netted nothing in the last 6-8 years and we see hardly a deer up there.
So, we are packing up and heading back down to the methow. We are some of the last that have hunted there since 2007 to bail out.
I hope it changes
We have found some clear paths here and there. If we can't get through that stuff, odds are the deer can't either or they have a pretty beaten down trail you can follow. Obstacles will obviously make them change their path a bit.
I have heard mixed reviews on the type of winter we will have. The Chewuch is a big unit. There will be deer somewhere. Maybe not the caliber or numbers there once was, but there will be deer!
I'm sorry to see you leave the area it sound like you love so much.
Have.a memorable season with a deer(I hope) and some more stories.
Post by: wilywin on September 06, 2025, 07:36:49 PM
Post by: O. Nerka on September 06, 2025, 08:43:51 PM
Watch the weather and get out of your truck! Drew that tag in 2019! Got a pretty nice 6x4 on Nov14th in about a foot of snow! Key word is " get out of your truck " Good luck!And be ready to function in bad weather and snow. A buddy has a late tag in 2022 and was hunting in 2+ feet of snow. We hiked his buck out to the road and another tag holder drove past and stopped to chat. They were in soaking wet blue jeans and were limited to hunting within 1/4 mile of the truck while postholing around.
Post by: boneaddict on September 07, 2025, 06:43:22 AM
Post by: Mtnwalker on September 07, 2025, 11:52:51 AM
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 07, 2025, 02:36:10 PM
………… carefully folks. PMs are not a bad thing. Just saying.
Or at least be vague . If you have a………hole or “an area” keep it close.
Times have changed.
Unbelievable.
I'm not worried about the spots I've mentioned. The area has so many hunters anymore during the general season, nothing is secret there. I run into people no matter where we go. My little specific/special places, I hold on tightly to.
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 07, 2025, 02:40:23 PM
Watch the weather and get out of your truck! Drew that tag in 2019! Got a pretty nice 6x4 on Nov14th in about a foot of snow! Key word is " get out of your truck " Good luck!
Sounds like you got a nice one! Congratulations.
I plan on getting out of my truck for sure. Thank you, I'm pretty excited.
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 07, 2025, 02:48:24 PM
Watch the weather and get out of your truck! Drew that tag in 2019! Got a pretty nice 6x4 on Nov14th in about a foot of snow! Key word is " get out of your truck " Good luck!And be ready to function in bad weather and snow. A buddy has a late tag in 2022 and was hunting in 2+ feet of snow. We hiked his buck out to the road and another tag holder drove past and stopped to chat. They were in soaking wet blue jeans and were limited to hunting within 1/4 mile of the truck while postholing around.
We typically hunt late archery, in the snow. I have everything heated you can think of, as well as waterproof clothes. Nothing worse than being cold and wet. 2022 was an epic year. I was hiking in thigh deep snow, wind just blowing and it was cold. My boyfriend's deer ended up 600 yards down in a creek bottom and we packed it out from there in 30" of snow. But, that was an amazing year all around.
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 07, 2025, 02:54:03 PM
The Chewuch is a big unit. This is key. I swung through last year on a photo trip and found 8 tag holders within about a square mile of each other off of one very popular old road. Granted, its a good spot as I was there too with little skin in the game, but I was shocked.
There are a lot of deer that hang around those very popular roads. I will have the entire time to hunt, explore, and hopefully find my perfect enough buck. I will be on my own some days in the beginning. That will be the most difficult to explore too far out, just playing it safe. There is a lot of ground to cover.
Post by: Dan-o on September 07, 2025, 06:46:11 PM
Post by: jason stevens on September 07, 2025, 06:53:38 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 08, 2025, 04:26:45 AM
You've got a great attitude and predict you're going to have a really fun hunt! :tup:
Thank you Dan-O!! I plan on making the most of it. I can't wait to see how that country is, that time of year. It will be fun to see. I know even with the change in deer numbers over the years, there are still enough to choose from. I love your support. 😁
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 08, 2025, 04:30:45 AM
You are an open minded hunter an I hope for some reason you end up with the new state record. Happy hunting!!!
Jason Stevens, Thank you so much. I will definitely be hunting like that is what I'm after. 😁 I am beyond excited and I can't wait to see what the mountains hold for me. I know I will be putting in the work and no matter the caliber, it will be special.
Thank you again and I hope you're right. ☺️
Post by: Schmalzfam on September 08, 2025, 06:22:24 AM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
I see it now. 😂 Sorry about that. I'm not sure how I missed it. Sounds like you have spent a lot of time there. I'm glad some other knowledgeable people will be there! 😁 I'm excited. We have been over just checking out roads etc. Things will be different come late October - the end of the tag. Best of luck to you. I hope we run into you and you're dragging out a nice buck! Are you staying the entire time?
No worries! Due to other hunts that we have planned in November, we are only hunting the first 10 days of the tag. I’d love to hunt the last half but oh well. I think we should be able to tag out in that amount of time.
I haven’t got to spend much time in the northern part of the Unit since we had been hunting whitetail when we were there before. We saw a lot of fresh wolf sign up Eight Mile last year.
You must have some other great hunts planned. Congratulations! You will find a shooter in that time. I have came across some sign in that area as well, but we never came across one and we didn't hear any. I was surprised we didn't hear them. We camped in the backcountry, so I was kind of expecting it. Best of luck to you and maybe we will see you over there!
Post by: doubledroptinedreamer on September 09, 2025, 12:35:33 PM
My dad and I were also lucky enough to draw the Chewuch quality tag this year! My fiancé had the buck tag last year, and my dad and I had the buck tag in 2016, so we are familiar with the area. We saw a few nice muley bucks last year and weren't really looking very hard. Snow seems to help push the deer down.
I see it now. 😂 Sorry about that. I'm not sure how I missed it. Sounds like you have spent a lot of time there. I'm glad some other knowledgeable people will be there! 😁 I'm excited. We have been over just checking out roads etc. Things will be different come late October - the end of the tag. Best of luck to you. I hope we run into you and you're dragging out a nice buck! Are you staying the entire time?
No worries! Due to other hunts that we have planned in November, we are only hunting the first 10 days of the tag. I’d love to hunt the last half but oh well. I think we should be able to tag out in that amount of time.
I haven’t got to spend much time in the northern part of the Unit since we had been hunting whitetail when we were there before. We saw a lot of fresh wolf sign up Eight Mile last year.
You must have some other great hunts planned. Congratulations! You will find a shooter in that time. I have came across some sign in that area as well, but we never came across one and we didn't hear any. I was surprised we didn't hear them. We camped in the backcountry, so I was kind of expecting it. Best of luck to you and maybe we will see you over there!
Good luck to you as well! I hope you get a big one!
Post by: bigboy on November 16, 2025, 08:55:28 AM
Post by: scoutdog346 on November 16, 2025, 11:12:37 AM
Post by: 2MANY on November 16, 2025, 12:38:05 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 01:02:46 PM
Lol
What's so funny?😂🤣
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 01:33:40 PM
I did get one !! He is pretty unique.
Super odd season, from my experience anyways.
I will say I met a lot of very amazing people on this hunt. The quality of bucks I thought I'd see, had not moved in and I am not sure they are going to, before this hunt ends.
I prayed hard for snow, I got a pineapple Express. 😂
This guy was spotted. I hiked in to see if I could find him. I didn't see him, but I did find a nice 4 point with eye guards and a cool kicker. I passed on him. I still had 11 days left at that point and thought this is just the start!
I never did see my buck, at that point. The 4 point wasn't going anywhere.
So, I checked out some other spots higher up to see if they were moving.
Bucks, but nothing big or cool looking.
With no weather in the forecast and the deer numbers not what I had seen in the past, I thought maybe I should go look at that 4 point again.
I was just getting ready to hike in and someone pulled up. He said he shot a 5x6 in this spot last night, but wasn't able to retrieve him. I thought, that's the buck! So, I said let's get and drive down the road a bit discouraged. I saw some a small buck and some does. I noticed another deer in the Aspens. He came out and I knew it was what I called my Uni buck. At that point I had my heart set on him, because he was so cool looking. I figured once in a lifetime tag, once in a lifetime buck! He will look cool on the wall!
I hiked in a bit, and got set up.
He came out of the downed trees and thick brush. Go to pull the trigger....ugh forgot to click my safety off. Geesh. Get back on him, MISFIRE!! Are you kidding me?! Maybe I am not meant to shoot this buck! Now he's at 335 yards. Get on him he turns and everything worked out perfectly. He went maybe 10-15 yards.
Third time's a charm!
I know of a few others who had this tag and got some nice bucks. I haven't seen any mashers come out yet. We have been cruising around and looking still. Such an odd year. But, I am happy!! I will probably never see another like him.
It all worked out. I am so thankful to everyone who helped me along the way. The new friendships made and old friendships that took my deer back to the butcher for me since it wasn't an option at the local butcher!!!
Good luck to those still hunting!
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on November 16, 2025, 01:39:08 PM
Post by: MikeC on November 16, 2025, 01:47:06 PM
Post by: Kingofthemountain83 on November 16, 2025, 01:50:44 PM
Post by: HntnFsh on November 16, 2025, 01:53:57 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 02:00:54 PM
Post by: Buzzsaw461 on November 16, 2025, 02:02:56 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 02:26:10 PM
Cool Buck. Awesome how you really put the time into this tag. Congrats. I’m hoping I get drawn sometime soon with my 26 points. Being retired I would love to be able to spend the whole season looking for that special buck.
I hope you draw next year and find the buck of a lifetime. I was certain that the weather would be here and help bring more deer together. There are still some hunters out there going strong! I'd love to see their deer. You and another guy I know how a lot of points. Cheers to next year!!
Post by: jstone on November 16, 2025, 03:40:49 PM
That’s a cool buck.!!
Post by: boneaddict on November 16, 2025, 04:24:21 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 04:28:43 PM
Congratulations
That’s a cool buck.!!
Thank you!! 😊
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 04:29:35 PM
Very cool buck. Congratulations
Thank you!! Have you been over here photographing this year?
Post by: KP-Skagit on November 16, 2025, 04:31:22 PM
Call me crazy.... but this is from 2023 in Chewuch.
(http://)
Post by: Kingofthemountain83 on November 16, 2025, 04:36:13 PM
Post by: boneaddict on November 16, 2025, 04:37:17 PM
Post by: zwickeyman on November 16, 2025, 05:08:41 PM
Honestly I was considering it for the morning. I’m hesitant because I know with the lack of snow and the amount of pressure the odds of me finding something worth it isn’t very likely with the time I have. I’m bouncing around between three ideas (Methow, Colville, or Montana), but haven’t decided yet. Whitetails are starting to move, so I might finish off with them, though I love muleys more than anything.
You know better than 98% of us but I would be leaning towards Colville with what little snow we have
Post by: ShaneTyTrey on November 16, 2025, 05:12:05 PM
Post by: Pegasus on November 16, 2025, 05:13:50 PM
Post by: Mfowl on November 16, 2025, 05:32:50 PM
Post by: O. Nerka on November 16, 2025, 05:37:02 PM
Cool buck and you just helped clean up the gene pool. Unlike Sydney Sweeney your buck did not have "good jeans".I'm no deer-ologist but I'd assume there was an injury while the buck was in velvet rather than genetics. And if bad genetics produces an antler like is on the other side then sign me up.
Congrats on the cool looking deer!
Post by: catdog on November 16, 2025, 05:55:25 PM
Cool buck and you just helped clean up the gene pool. Unlike Sydney Sweeney your buck did not have "good jeans".we saw that deer in 2023 during late season and he had both sides . Like said above must of had an injury or something.
Post by: lewy on November 16, 2025, 06:03:50 PM
Post by: MADMAX on November 16, 2025, 06:04:47 PM
Massy
Post by: Wingin it on November 16, 2025, 07:15:04 PM
Post by: 2MANY on November 16, 2025, 07:30:16 PM
Post by: hunter399 on November 16, 2025, 08:09:37 PM
Congrats,very cool looking buck!👍🤟🤙
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 08:24:53 PM
Honestly I was considering it for the morning. I’m hesitant because I know with the lack of snow and the amount of pressure the odds of me finding something worth it isn’t very likely with the time I have. I’m bouncing around between three ideas (Methow, Colville, or Montana), but haven’t decided yet. Whitetails are starting to move, so I might finish off with them, though I love muleys more than anything.I'm sure whatever area you choose, you will take some great photos. I hope to see what you find.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 08:26:45 PM
Awesome animal! So unique. Love the mass and dark horns.
Call me crazy.... but this is from 2023 in Chewuch.
(http://)
I won't call you crazy, I can see a resemblance for sure! Thank you for sharing. I've been trying to guess his age.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 08:39:59 PM
Cool buck and you just helped clean up the gene pool. Unlike Sydney Sweeney your buck did not have "good jeans".
My goal wasn't to clean-up the gene pool, my goal was to harvest an animal I felt worthy of this tag. He in my mind was unique and worth it. There are definitely a ton of different characteristics that some find flawed, if it's not your typical mule deer. His club side was 100% due to an injury or ailment. I had him caped and the taxidermist skinned him for my mount. While doing so he found a small crack in his skull, on the top of his head.
When he was spotted days earlier, he had a fork off the club side, that had since broken off. He also had a gash, right above where the fork was, near his ear. He tired his best, that's for sure.
Only having one strong antler made it difficult to hang with the big boys. Thanks for your input/opinion.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 16, 2025, 08:43:09 PM
Cool buck and you just helped clean up the gene pool. Unlike Sydney Sweeney your buck did not have "good jeans".we saw that deer in 2023 during late season and he had both sides . Like said above must of had an injury or something.
That is SO very cool to see!! Thank you for sharing. It is awesome to piece it all together.
Post by: Dan-o on November 16, 2025, 09:03:28 PM
Congratulations and thanks for sharing with us.
Post by: X-Force on November 16, 2025, 09:36:12 PM
Post by: Rigby416 on November 16, 2025, 11:29:10 PM
Post by: bigboy on November 17, 2025, 07:31:48 AM
Post by: andrebeergog on November 17, 2025, 10:58:49 AM
Post by: cedarriver on November 17, 2025, 01:37:22 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 17, 2025, 02:18:38 PM
Beautiful Buck!! Unique may be a understatement! Haha
Thank you!! I was calling him my Uni buck, from the moment he was spotted.
Post by: HikerHunter on November 17, 2025, 02:22:47 PM
Post by: bearhunter99 on November 17, 2025, 04:46:41 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 17, 2025, 05:49:16 PM
That is a super cool and unique trophy!!!!
Congratulations and thanks for sharing with us.
Thanks Dan-O. Happy to share. He is a trophy in my book.
Post by: high_hunter on November 17, 2025, 05:56:46 PM
Post by: huntnphool on November 17, 2025, 09:59:31 PM
Well done, that’s a true mature, quality late tag buck! :tup:
Post by: tgray on November 18, 2025, 06:49:56 AM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 18, 2025, 08:39:50 AM
I have been fortunate to tag more than a couple “trophy” quality animals, and I’d have dumped that one with your tag whiteout even thinking twice! :twocents:
Well done, that’s a true mature, quality late tag buck! :tup:
Thanks for the reassurance Huntnphool. He sure is full of character which I love over the wide typical 4x4's often taken and seen. I hope to have another opportunity in my lifetime.But, I think he was just the right one for me.
Post by: HntnFsh on November 18, 2025, 08:40:43 AM
Post by: no.cen.wa on November 18, 2025, 12:00:19 PM
Post by: OutHouse on November 18, 2025, 01:00:01 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 18, 2025, 05:51:20 PM
Wow! Good for YOU! That's a one of a kind! Awesome!
Thank you! I'm excited I decided to take him when I did. I doubt I will ever see one like him again. Thank you. 😊
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 18, 2025, 05:53:47 PM
Oh my goodness what a cool buck! Also, I think I saw that deer cross the highway during Archery! I remember it was at night and one side looked very heavy but couldn't even make out the other side. Great job and thanks for sharing!
Thank you! He would be pretty hard to mistake. Very well could've been him. I was glassing him from a ways out and that's when I saw it was the one that had been spotted days before. I got so excited. I knew there wasn't another like him in the area.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 19, 2025, 09:00:38 AM
He was!
He was worth my tag. He IS and always will be full of character, hanging on my wall. 😁
Post by: Bonehuntn on November 19, 2025, 09:53:06 AM
Post by: huntnphool on November 19, 2025, 01:19:05 PM
Post by: Kingofthemountain83 on November 19, 2025, 04:56:54 PM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 19, 2025, 05:10:44 PM
It’s too bad he broke off the little point on the funky side but cool buck for sure! Seen him at the start of season.
Yeah it would've been pretty cool to see that still attached.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 19, 2025, 05:12:24 PM
Would make a sweet euro.
He's getting a full mount. I have some euro mounts. I wanted the full effect with him.
Post by: Buzzsaw461 on November 19, 2025, 05:20:57 PM
I agreeWould make a sweet euro.
He's getting a full mount. I have some euro mounts. I wanted the full effect with him.
Post by: Bonehuntn on November 19, 2025, 05:35:27 PM
[/quote]
I have a pic if you never got to see it…not a very great one but you can see it.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 19, 2025, 05:52:43 PM
Yeah it would've been pretty cool to see that still attached.
I have a pic if you never got to see it…not a very great one but you can see it.
[/quote]
I'd love to see it. The one I have isn't very clear either.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 19, 2025, 05:58:49 PM
Yeah it would've been pretty cool to see that still attached.
I have a pic if you never got to see it…not a very great one but you can see it.
I'd love to see it. The one I have isn't very clear either.
[/quote]
Post by: eskimo on November 20, 2025, 09:20:52 AM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 20, 2025, 07:53:46 PM
Congratulations on the GREAT trophy and good job putting your time and effort.Bob
Thank you very much. 😊
Post by: Ridgerunner on November 21, 2025, 07:58:46 AM
Post by: Face72 on November 21, 2025, 05:54:56 PM
Post by: Falcon on November 22, 2025, 09:02:38 AM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 23, 2025, 07:03:49 PM
Cool buck and definitely worthy of the tag. IMO these hunts are what you make of them. Sure it is possible that all the stars align and you have a hunt that is something similar to a premium out of state hunt, but the reality is that is hardly the case. You will need to still work hard, hunt hard and have some luck to have everything fall into place. Enjoying time in the field with minimal competition is a definite bonus on these hunts, being able to see alot of deer is a plus too. Killing a memorable buck makes it all the better imo.
Thank you! I agree with everything you said. It is also a mentally challenging hunt. Passing on deer you'd normally shoot, is hard. Then, days of only finding small bucks, second guessing those passes. Finding one you'd love to shoot and not being able to shoot it. It is a fun hunt. One I am so happy to have the chance to do. One I hope I have the chance to do again, after learning more with this experience. Thank you again for your insight. 😊
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 23, 2025, 07:04:34 PM
Great looking book. Congrats
Thank you!! 😊
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 23, 2025, 07:05:53 PM
Your buck has such an amazing amount of mass. I can't stop looking at the pics. Congrats and thanks for sharing.
Thank you. He is pretty unique. I keep going through all the pictures over and over. Lol. I'm pleased it all worked out.
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 23, 2025, 08:15:44 PM
Post by: boneaddict on November 24, 2025, 08:37:45 AM
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/68034e43-19b7-4de3-9566-c3ba9c52d3f8/70b8c1e6-07f1-490c-a467-e6e63bbec72e.jpg)
Post by: boneaddict on November 24, 2025, 08:42:14 AM
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/68034e43-19b7-4de3-9566-c3ba9c52d3f8/af2b6472-20fa-4880-826d-0182e58eeec1.jpg)
Post by: Mtnwalker on November 24, 2025, 08:57:06 AM
This photo was taken a couple years ago within walking distance of where your photo with the buck was taken. A likely bloodline candidate.
You sure this isn't the same buck? That drivers side antler configuration is spot on
Post by: boneaddict on November 24, 2025, 09:05:33 AM
Post by: Pegasus on November 24, 2025, 09:49:43 AM
This photo was taken a couple years ago within walking distance of where your photo with the buck was taken. A likely bloodline candidate.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/68034e43-19b7-4de3-9566-c3ba9c52d3f8/af2b6472-20fa-4880-826d-0182e58eeec1.jpg)
That is a perfect picture. Almost looks like the buck is standing in front a rising moon. Did you plan to catch him in front of that massive boulder or was it serendipity?
Post by: boneaddict on November 24, 2025, 10:05:39 AM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 24, 2025, 10:07:39 PM
He chased a doe around it for about 20 minutes, so I took all sorts of images, but I liked the rock as an accent piece.
That is such a great photo. Definite resemblance for sure. It's really neat to see all the deer that have similar characteristics. I have noticed some with similar shape, one dominant being bucks with blades antlers. We have a few more days left here and I am hoping we get to see a few more amazing bucks. We have been spending our time in the hills grouse hunting, so there's not the likelihood we will see many deer, with the dogs.
Thank you for sharing that picture, it is very cool to see the bloodlines. I would guess you're spot on!
Post by: meat_in_the_pot3 on November 25, 2025, 04:36:03 AM
I agree I think that’s the same buck-This photo was taken a couple years ago within walking distance of where your photo with the buck was taken. A likely bloodline candidate.
You sure this isn't the same buck? That drivers side antler configuration is spot on
Idk how many years apart it’s
Been but I think that’s the same buck
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: C-Money on November 25, 2025, 06:31:22 AM
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 25, 2025, 11:30:25 AM
This is the kind of brutality they survive. Who knows what damage was done to the pedicle as the antler was ripped from their skull. Likely if he survives, he’d look similiar to your buck. They have an incredible story.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/68034e43-19b7-4de3-9566-c3ba9c52d3f8/70b8c1e6-07f1-490c-a467-e6e63bbec72e.jpg)
Wow. They are sure tough beings. Yes, such a great story behind each one. I think some underestimate their strength.
Post by: Schmalzfam on November 25, 2025, 07:35:41 PM
It would be awesome if it was. I was trying to get a good look at the throat patches.I agree I think that’s the same buck-This photo was taken a couple years ago within walking distance of where your photo with the buck was taken. A likely bloodline candidate.
You sure this isn't the same buck? That drivers side antler configuration is spot on
Idk how many years apart it’s
Been but I think that’s the same buck
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 04, 2025, 12:39:53 PM
Glad to hear that. He deserves a full mount! :tup:Would make a sweet euro.
He's getting a full mount. I have some euro mounts. I wanted the full effect with him.