Quick Tips
- Bring a shotgun for hunting chukars and sage grouse
- Carry a predator call to lure coyotes
- Carry spare tires, extra water and supplies
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 180"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 120"+ |
| Elk | 280"-310" | 310"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-70" | 70"+ |
On The Ground
Elk, mule deer and antelope can be found in this unit located in the Owyhee area and includes most of the Owyhee River Wilderness.
Hunters can hunt big mule deer, big elk and antelope in this wild, remote desert terrain that borders Nevada and Oregon.
Terrain
Unit 42 is mostly open, flat to slightly hilly deep, rough canyons cut into the plains by the Owyhee River. Cliffs are made of rhyolite, basalt and volcanic ash. The Owyhee River leaves Idaho at an elevation of 4,200 feet. Most of the plains and hills are between 5,000 and 6,000 feet above sea level. High points include Juniper Mountain, Bald Mountain, Big Springs Butte and Crab Springs Butte.
Roughly 1,343 square miles
95.7% public land
Elevations from 4,200-6,800 feet
Vegetation
Sagebrush and grass cover most of the unit with junipers and mahoganies growing in strips on some ridges and edges. The hills, ridges and draws around Juniper Mountain are dark with junipers. Canyon sides have many species of brush. Willows and grasses grow along the river and tributaries below.
Access
A network of roads and ATV trails access the Owyhee Mountains and the deserts around them. Many dirt roads and ATV trails branch from the Owyhee Uplands Byway.
Four-wheel drive is recommended in bad weather
Carry tools and spare tires
Camping and Lodging
Hunters can camp almost anywhere on public land. Contact the BLM for restrictions. The BLM-managed North Fork Campground is free and has seven campsites located at the northern tip. The unit is too far from towns for hunters to lodge in motels.
Historical Temperatures
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Moon Phases
April 2025
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