| Are you interested in mule deer hunting? This ancient | | | | those who hunt white tailed deer regularly benefit |
| sport provides a wide variety of benefits. Their | | | | from using a tree stand, mule deer are typically |
| meat, pelt, and antlers alone are enough to make | | | | located in vast stretches of meadows or rocky |
| these creatures prized additions to any home. Due to | | | | areas. Worse still, they are quite adept at spotting |
| their lower numbers and migratory patterns, finding | | | | motion. Located throughout the west and southwest, |
| these deer can be somewhat difficult. Their | | | | these deer are also known for being the most active |
| distinctive appearance and behavior makes them a | | | | during the morning and evening, when the weather is |
| challenge to hunt as well. | | | | cooler. |
| Mule deer are characterized by their dark, coarse | | | | Many hunters, however, relish the new challenge of |
| pelts, dense size, black tipped tail, and large, white | | | | mule deer hunting. There are a wide assortment of |
| tipped ears. Unlike most other species, they move in | | | | techniques to consider when hunting these animals. |
| a very fast, unusual way-rather than sprinting or | | | | Some are basic common sense, such as avoiding |
| vaulting the way their white tailed cousins do, they | | | | heavily scented soaps or shampoos when bathing, |
| jump in a method known as stotting, which is a | | | | lest their scent give you away. Others include staying |
| series of fast, lengthy, stiff-legged jumps where all | | | | as motionless as possible and shooting when the deer |
| four hooves hit the ground at once. It may sound like | | | | has its attention focused on food or on another |
| an awkward way to move, but bolting in this way is | | | | sound. |
| surprisingly effective. | | | | If you're unaccustomed to mule deer hunting, |
| Unlike moose, elk, or other species, mule deer rarely | | | | perhaps you should consider a guided hunt. This is the |
| make any noise, which rules out the use of bulges or | | | | act of arranging a hunt while accompanied by trained |
| other hunting calls. Their large ears also make them | | | | professionals. This can be especially useful if you're |
| difficult to sneak up on-constantly in movement, they | | | | unfamiliar with the terrain as well as the typical habits |
| are ever aware of even the slightest sound. Their | | | | of the mule deer. Your guides will be able to give you |
| sensitive noses are also adept at picking up out of | | | | tips regarding tracking, stalking, and shooting. Best of |
| place scents. | | | | all, you'll be able to return to a cozy cabin or camp |
| When mule deer hunting, a common challenge many | | | | ground. Many hunting outfitters of this kind also |
| new hunters face is the issue of deer stands. While | | | | provide you with hot meals and other commodities. |