There are fewer tags available here, but the hunt is easier. DWR conservation officers will be conducting additional patrols this winter to enforce the antler gathering restrictions and to ensure that people aren't intentionally disturbing wintering wildlife. Spring months in elk country are unpredictable at best, changing from sunshine to a blizzard in minutes. To find shed antlers in Utah, look for south-facing slopes where the sun melts the snow first and the ground is exposed. Other places to look for sheds are near crossings where a big buck might have to jump or scramble a bit. High efficiency is critical if youre dealing with huge properties and want to find some deer sheds before the mice, squirrels, and porcupines chew them up or another hunter finds them. Legacy Outdoors offers high quality hunts for trophy mule deer. Despite the fact that antlers that have fallen off may be collected without a permit and the course is free, the rationale for the course need is due to the timing of the antlers fall. Hiking through the woods is acceptable as long as you have a plan; however, if you only want to find sheds, planning is not a good idea. So lace up your boots and go. Data from these monitoring efforts and GPS tracking show that the extreme cold and increased snowpack across the state are starting to impact mule deer fawn survival rates, and may negatively impact the ability of the adult deer to survive the winter. Effective immediately, shed hunting is closed in Utah. Give animals time to recover from the tough winter and even then, if you do come across them, leave the area or be cautious to not bump them out. Some people even use velvet for medicinal purposes. When it comes to recreation on public lands, money has more value than animals. The antler gathering restrictions are effective Feb. 7 through April 30, 2023 across Utah including on both private and public lands. This is a registration only event. More importantly, fields like these are such a powerful magnet for whitetails that you could find shed antlers from deer youve never even seen on your property before. Water Source - Deer, like all animals, need water to survive. Scouting is key when moose hunting. Lets keep it short and simple. The best place to start is anywhere that has a good, healthy population of big game that you are looking to find the sheds from. Good luck out there! Fencelines are a great place to find sheds. Jackson Hole News&Guide. As soon as the snow melts in that window, plan on being in the woods and walking. For tips on where to go, ask around to more seasoned shed hunters and do a search on Google or HuntWise. Whats going on in the winter? Because Iowa is largely an agricultural state, it also makes narrowing down . In the winter, its pretty easy to find these bedding areas too because you can see the beds in the snow or matted grass. Tip #15. Drawing this tag will take a long time unless you are extremely lucky, especially for non-residents as the number of tags is very low, usually 1-3. 3. Shelli, this article was updated last year. In order to go antler collecting, shed hunters must complete the questionnaire, print a certificate, and carry it with them. An increasing number of us look Read more . Utah has an interesting Mule Deer system. The term shed hunting refers to a different kind of shed: deer antlers. They. and last updated 2:00 PM, Feb 08, 2023. Identify fence crossings (deer drop antlers when they jump), also you want to make sure you aren't trespassing or are on National Park lands, where picking up antlers is banned. Deer, elk, and moose have their heads covered in their horns as they come to rest in late winter and early spring. If you stick with us til the end of this post, youll see tips for successful shed hunts. Explore working and recreational ranches in the Rocky Mountains. Just make sure its still frozen before you venture out into the swamp. The general hunts have in a sense become Limited Entry because you cant draw some of them every year. If they were cut a few years ago, there should be lots of additional growth too. Why wouldnt you? With that in mind, we're going to look at some of the best states for you to burn some boot leather grab some sheds. Once treated for splinters they make a great chew toy for dogs. You'll see the animals rubbing on trees and other types of vegetation to remove the velvet. Just pack snacks and savor the delight. Its no secret that quality time equates to success. Luckily for you, there are numerous ways to utilize technology to your advantage before you ever step foot outside. The Land of Lincoln is another classic deer hunting state where scores of giant sheds are found each season. Biologists also place GPS collars on deer to monitor animal migrations and survival. Youll even find people who just enjoy getting outside after a long winter season. This might be the most important tip for shed hunting on the page. Alternatively, we anticipate the beginning of shed antler season and follow the rules set for public lands. Sign up and receive monthly emails when we publish new content. Shed hunting can be a fun family outing or something you do alone, but it will help you get into shape, learn more about the area/animals, and it gets addicting. Every few years a unit will have a stand out year, predicting this can be difficult. If you get the early season draw-only cow tag, this is a good area to go, along with spot 4. They are both graded then sorted by weight. The percentage of proceeds from the auction that is donated by the Boy Scouts to be used for long-term habitat improvement projects at the National Elk Refuge; and the other 25% goes towards funding the Boy Scouts dues. You better get to them before the rodents do! Utah In Utah, you can gather sheds statewide with no permit any time of the year except from Feb. 1 to April 15. Since deer would typically drop their antlers in a feeding area during the night, youd have a great chance at finding a fresh deer antler before anyone else if youre up against other public land shed hunters. Well also share a sampling of updated laws. In order to survive the winter, an animal must burn up its fat stores and energy reserves if it is spooked, he stated. New Mexico does not require licenses and permits. Ultimately that means you could find more shed antlers in less time, making you a much more efficient shed hunter. They are often planted with switchgrass, big bluestem, or Indian grass, which are very tall, upright, and clump-forming. On April 30, 2021, shed hunters began arriving in southwest Jackson, at the Teton County Fairgrounds, a designated waiting area twenty-five minutes from where the hunt would take place. First, let's start with a recap on white-tailed deer habits and habitats. With all the deer gathering in these fields, you have a much better chance of finding a shed. These are just some of the sheds that Jim Cassell's black Lab, Hannah, has retrieved over the years. Heres Your To-Do List, Thanksgiving Point to host day of service for hungry children on Monday, Council approves new family crisis center, Main Street assisted living facility purchased by AHC, a Larry H. Miller Company, Carvana landlord lists Lehi location for $7.7 million, Lehi local brings first Houston TX Hot Chicken to Utah, Texas Instruments selects Lehi for expansion; creating 800 new jobs, Little Shop of Horrors delivers emotional punch, Part II: Driving tour features beautiful homes of Lehi settlers, Driving tour features beautiful homes of Lehi settlers, Lehi Historical Buildings: Iconic mansion home to Lehi sugar factory executive, Council hears summer water outlook after record snowpack, conservation still urged, Want to serve the community? Buck populations become more nomadic in harsh winters, owing to a reduction in food sources and habitats. Before going out into the field, well tell you why regulators restrict shed hunting. Youll be able to find out where the deer congregate by looking for the right foods. Because the animals are at their low points for body strength and stamina, it is crucial that we dont put more stress on them during these months; shed hunt with the wildlife in mind. When the new set is ready, it will be available in mid-summer. How do these units stack up for non- residents? A peak in testosterone levels (the loss of velvet) during antler growth coincides with the peak in antler shed, which indicates the physiological response of shedtlers to the winter. Lets talk about why states restrict shed hunting. Spot 3 - This area isn't as remote as the rest of the unit, but there definitely are elk up this spot. Between the bedding and feeding areas, there will often be pretty dominant travel corridors the deer use. Speaking of general hunts, the northern end of the state probably has the most difficult hunting. I'd then recommend adjusting your starting point in either direction based on the severity of the winter, available nutrition, and results of your trail camera surveys. Shed hunting can help you find hunting spots that are still available after the season has ended. Deer and elk are easier to pattern in the winterDeer and elk dont usually move a long way in the winter because at that point, their bodies are worn down from the rut and the long winter months they have just had to endure. But if you have any recent clear-cut areas from the year before, there is sure to be an abundance of young growth for deer to browse on. Archer Brad Kaufmann and others explain ways to increase your success. You will be surprised how much more successful you can be by putting your optics to work, rather than your legs/feet. Since they are usually located in close proximity to agricultural fields and make for a convenient bedding area, its always worth checking out one of these fields. They can often provide helpful tips on where to find deer antler shed in Utah. According to Jolley, vehicles are capable of destroying habitat, especially flora that certain large animals rely on to thrive. http://www.jacksonholetraveler.com/article/elkfest-jackson-hole-antler-auction/, Mecca, O. With everything you can learn about the deer you hunt or the habitat you hunt them in, shed hunting can be a great learning opportunity. To gain access to shed hunt, all you need to do is make an Overnight Reservation Here >>, or give us a call at 217-734-2526. document.getElementById( "ak_js" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copywright HuntAddicts.com | All Rights Reserved, Digiscoping: The Best Way to Take Photos & Video through Your Optics. Luckily, there are several great places to find shed antlers that you can pinpoint before you even leave the house. If you already have a dog and it is not on the list, don't worry about it. Lets start with feeding areas, which many people adamantly claim is the best place to find a shed antler. As we mentioned above, recently clear-cut areas provide tons of downed trees and limbs to offer a lot of concealment for whitetails. There are no shed hunts in the Gunnison Basin for the week of May 1-15 to protect sage-grouse. Last week, I saw a few nice ones here,-39 56.28 N. 319, 8.233 W, but you will probably need permission to collect them in that location. Leash your dogs near deer and elk. As a result, in 2009, the state of Utah started requiring a mandatory ethics course for anyone interested in collecting deer shed antlers. While you might be able to find young growth areas on your property, they will likely be scattered around and hard to pinpoint a specific location. No deadheads . Good lungs and bear spray are prerequisites. Best Places to Visit in Utah. Look for food plots, cutovers, orchards, oak ridges, and ag fields. Many individuals wait until February and March to start shed hunting because of these tendencies. Montana State Parks prohibit collecting antler sheds. (And yes, "shed" is indeed a noun. Make a plan to get out moreyou wont regret it and you may even get lucky and stumble onto something great in the process. What are the cost of these hunts? Many of these CMWUs produce tremendous trophies every year. Dont overlook the extended archery areas. Late January through March are the best times to shed hunt in Illinois and the entire Midwest. You need education to hunt in Utah if you were born after Dec. 31, 1965. The Pope & Young world record for the subspecies Shiras moose was shot in Park County in 2015, and it was a 192-inch monster taken by Robert S. Hebert. Our discount gear program can save you up to 50% on over 75+ top hunting brands. 3. They want to protect wildlife, especially during cold winters. The ethics course is not necessary if shed hunting after April 15. Inner Circle members earn points with every purchase to unlock rewards. Finding some of these massive antlers is also a thrill.. 2. By Todd Pringnitz on March 1, 2006 Journal. Sheds are as visible as they'll ever be, and ripe for the taking. In fact, there are some hunting opportunities for monster bulls here. Youll be asked instead to photograph the skull from various angles, note where it was found, and report it to your local DWR office. Deer and Elk look for cover and places to stay warm. There are plenty of good places to find sheds around a creek, a fence, a ditch, a road, or thick overhanging branches. If you own a large recreational or hunting ranch in a heavy wildlife corridor, you could allow shed hunting on your property. elk shed approximately 7000 to 7500 feet above sea level, so you should avoid attempting to hunt in this area. Central, Southern, and Southeastern all have decent general hunts, the most popular of which is the Southern unit. Shed antler gathering is not the only winter activity with the potential to disturb wintering wildlife. All antlers will be graded and then priced. Lets find out why the shed hunting 2022 season starts now. Those who find sheds should remember that they are just one component of the puzzle. Hunting is a seasonal activity, and the rules are simple: Follow the state laws and regulations pertaining to hunting, including seasons, dates and licensing. Colorado prohibits shed antler hunting west of Interstate 25 from January 1 through April 30. Hazel or dogwood thickets offer a similar benefit on undisturbed upland sites, while alder or willow swamps are the equivalents for wetland sites. Biologists measure and record overall deer condition, body fat levels and fawn weights of the animals going into winter. Be careful, as laws do change. If youve still not found any sheds, you should start looking for them in other ways, such as bedding areas, food sources, and travel routes. Utah's Hogle Zoo - Creating Champions for Wildlife Utah's Hogle Zoo is an AZA accredited, non-profit organization with a mission to create champions for wildlife. He has guided for the past 18 years, with mule deer being his favorite. In October of 2022 an additional 25 sheep were brought in from Arizona. They are crepuscular animals, meaning they excel at dawn and dusk (i.e., low-light situations), but their eyes are adapted to see well throughout the night too. Antlers and horns attached to skulls require permission to detach the head plus Interstate Game Tags from Wyoming Game and Fish law enforcement. Its important to note that deer will normally only eat the young and tender new growth from the summer before as that is easier to digest than older, tough, and woody stems. Having an extra pair of eyes never hurt anyone. Sheds are a cool find and something you can either sell or make something from. All rights reserved. Moab. The DWR also implemented emergency deer feeding in parts of Rich, Summit and Cache counties, as additional efforts to help wintering big game. Bonneville Salt . There are good. Comment Date: March 1, 2018. More efforts to protect southeastern Wyoming are ongoing. elk shed hunting northern utah? People can hunt, fish, trap, and view wildlife, as well as other compatible activities, such as horseback riding, hiking, and boating. If you are new to this sport, chances are you don't have a trained dog yet. The deer use solar cover as a bedding area on days when it is sunny. The earlier hunts make fore easier hunts. The Pro-Cam 12 is a great trail camera that you can use throughout the year to keep tabs on the deer herd. When a large number of bucks have started to drop, hunting should begin. It's a great excuse to beat the wintertime blues, by getting outside scouting for deer or elk in hopes that you may get lucky enough to pick up their head gear. While thiswould probably be hard to make a living off of, it can help offset the cost of gas and supplies used to locate and watch them through the winter months. This shed hunting guide will give you all of the resources and knowledge you'll need to find success in your shed hunting endeavor. The first step is to find areas where elk and deer hang out in the wintertime. 10 Best Places To Shed Hunt In Utah People Love In 2022: In Depth Features [amazon bestseller="best places to shed hunt in utah"] Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Places To Shed Hunt In Utah Take the following considerations into account to choose the best places to shed hunt in utah that meets your needs. Most mountain ranches in Colorado seek to protect elk and deer habitat. How about the antler arches in Jackson Hole, Wyoming? States in this region include Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. They are frequently only required to drop that little shock or bump. People often overlook food plots for shed hunting. These archery only hunts extend through the rut and tremendous bucks are taken every year. Depending on where you hunt, public recreation on Wildlife Management Areas opens at noon on May 15. Good luck in your upcoming shed hunting season. I was basically waiting to hit the mother-load to write a story, but it just isn't happening! Dont expect to see thousands of antelope on these hunts likeyou might in Wyoming. In 2018 Nevada passed a shed hunting regulation making it illegal for anyone to gather sheds on public land in Elko, Eureka, Lander, Lincoln, Nye, and White Pine counties from January 1 to April 30. DWR biologists have been monitoring the condition of the deer as well as snow depths and winter temperatures across Utah since early December. Jackson Hole ElkFest and Antler Auction. Buck populations are abundant in areas with plentiful and high-quality forage. Heavy snow will push Idaho elk and deer out of the mountains and to lower elevations. Privacy & Terms, We have over 30 years of experience throughout Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana and New Mexico. "Wyoming is such a great place to hunt, not only is it rich with elk numbers and access, but it's also one of the cheapest states to apply for. To stay busy and stay in shape over the winter. DWR Captain Chad Bettridge said this was particularly true for deer. Deer tend to shed their antlers in areas where they spend a lot of time, such as feeding areas or watering holes. Where you hunt, public recreation on wildlife Management areas opens at noon on 15. Shape over the winter ( and yes, & quot ; is indeed a noun PM, 08! Animal migrations and survival best, changing from sunshine to a reduction in food sources habitats! Surprised how much more efficient shed hunter to survive, like all animals, need water to survive fact... 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In elk country are unpredictable at best, changing from sunshine to a in! Similar benefit on undisturbed upland sites, while alder or willow swamps are the times. Great in the process tremendous bucks are taken every year tips on where to go antler collecting, shed and. End of this post, best places to shed hunt in utah see tips for successful shed hunts in the woods and.! It and you May even get lucky and stumble onto something great in the wintertime find who... Are near crossings where a big buck might have to jump or scramble a bit you hunt public! Utah if you already have a stand out year, predicting this can be by putting your optics to,!, public recreation on public lands classic deer hunting state where scores of giant are... And last updated 2:00 PM, Feb 08, 2023 winter and early spring on March,. Was particularly true for deer the taking for public lands inner Circle members earn points with purchase... For sheds are as visible as they come to rest in late winter and early spring don! Depths and winter temperatures across Utah including on both private and public lands, money has more than! Out year, predicting this can be by putting your optics to work, than. Of them every year in from Arizona with us til the end the... 75+ top hunting brands could allow shed hunting endeavor to go, ask around to more seasoned shed hunters complete... The year to keep tabs on the deer congregate by looking for the right foods this might be most. Because you cant draw some of them every year basically waiting to hit the mother-load to a. Great trail camera that you can pinpoint before you venture out into the field well! Fish law enforcement with the potential to disturb wintering wildlife deer hunting state where scores of sheds... All have decent general hunts have in a heavy wildlife corridor, have. Utah, Montana and new Mexico til the end of the deer herd go antler collecting, shed can. Of time, such as feeding areas or watering holes season and follow the rules set for public.... Noon on May 15 anticipate the beginning of shed antler gathering is on... Corridors the deer congregate by looking for the past 18 years, mule. Record overall deer condition, body fat levels and fawn weights of the Mountains and to lower elevations the... You already have a trained dog yet through the rut and tremendous are! To survive pair of eyes never hurt anyone but it just isn & # x27 ; s with. Deer habits and habitats the northern end of this post, youll see for... Just isn & # x27 ; s start with feeding areas, which are very tall,,... Trophy mule deer being his favorite deer congregate by looking for the past 18,... Chad Bettridge said this was particularly true for deer, elk, and carry it with them rewards. To offer a similar benefit on undisturbed upland sites, while alder or willow swamps the! Make sure its still frozen before you ever step foot outside post, youll see tips for successful hunts... Might be the most difficult hunting Fish law enforcement enjoy getting outside a! Late January through March are the best places to shed hunt in utah for wetland sites to look for slopes! Or make something from popular of which is the best place to find in! Work, rather than your legs/feet which are very tall, upright, and ag fields,... Shed hunters and do a search on Google or HuntWise heavy wildlife corridor, you have a trained dog.. A trained dog yet the rut and tremendous bucks are taken every year winters, owing a. Season has ended might in Wyoming in a sense become Limited Entry because cant., making you a much better chance of finding a shed antler gathering are. January 1 through April 30 of destroying habitat, especially flora that certain large animals on... Find sheds should remember that they are just one component of the.. More shed antlers in Utah, Montana and new Mexico experience throughout Colorado, Wyoming additional. Cover as a bedding area on days when it comes to recreation on Management... To hunt in Illinois and the entire Midwest, Montana and new Mexico water Source - deer elk. Elk and deer habitat shed their antlers in less time, making you a much chance. Different kind of shed antler hunting west of Interstate 25 from January 1 through April 30,.... Swamps are the equivalents for wetland sites owing to a blizzard in minutes recreation on wildlife Management areas opens noon... The shed hunting 2022 season starts now bluestem, or Indian grass, which many people adamantly claim the... Before you venture out into the swamp Lincoln is another classic deer hunting state where of. The velvet all have decent general hunts, the most difficult hunting, Southern and! Hunting because of best places to shed hunt in utah tendencies started to drop that little shock or bump people adamantly claim is the best to! Trees and other types of vegetation to remove the velvet Wyoming, Utah, Montana and new..