Zone B-3 is a relatively small, general tag zone located in portions of Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Mendocino, and Tehama counties just West of Willows and bordering Zone A. B zones are Blacktail trophy country.

As with many zones in California the natural cycle of wildfire aids the deer habitat creating additional edge cover and young sprouts providing food.Due to the lush nature of vegetation in this area many illegal, outdoor cannabis operations are present on public land. Keep aware of your surroundings. If a garden is discovered, back away quietly and notify authorities.

The terrain is steep and rugged on the West side where vegetation can be extremely dense, and arid and open on the East side, near Stony Gorge Reservoir.

The vegetation is highly varied throughout Zone B-3 ranging from mixed chaparral, oak-woodland, and hardwood-conifer to dense conifer habitats. Generally, deer populations in this area respond favorably to vegetation disturbances that enhance brush species (wildfire and timber harvesting).

There are extensive tracts of public lands with excellent access. Primary roadways in Zone B-3 are Interstate 5 along the Easter zone boundary, and State Highway 162 (going East-West). Many County, USFS and BLM roads branch off of these primary roadways providing access to public lands. With the multitude of lush pine forest and endless logging dirt roads it can be easy for a first-time visitor to get lost. Take maps and a GPS with you if you do not have first-hand knowledge of the area. The roads in this area tend to be curvy and narrow. Allow extra time for travel and be on the lookout for logging trucks and other large vehicles.

Zone B-3 contains a mixture of both public and private lands. Remember you must obtain and have in your possession written permission to hunt on private property. Hunter trespass laws are strictly enforced. Public lands within the zone are administered by the Mendocino National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management.

Wilderness lands have been established within the Mendocino National Forest. The Snow Mountain Wilderness Area is accessible by hiking and pack stock. Public use of the wilderness is regulated by permit. Information on wilderness area restrictions and Wilderness Permits may be obtained by contacting the Mendocino National Forest.

The majority of folks in this area open disperse camp in the forest. USFS and BLM campgrounds are also available in some locations, such as the Stony Gorge Reservoir.

The weather in this region is highly variable so be prepared. The weather is usually hot and dry with more chance of precipitation in October, but late summer thunderstorms are common. Hunting success will likely be limited in hot and dry years.