Quick Tips
- No cell phone coverage in places
- Excellent rainbow trout fishing on Duck Valley Indian Reservation
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 310"-340" | 350"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-70" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
This elk, antelope and mule deer unit includes part of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation on the Idaho line, features two major landmarks—the Independence and Bull Run mountain ranges.
Due to overlap seasons high hunter traffic is not uncommon. Mule deer in the past have consistetly good genetics. Elk can be found in some small pockets.
Terrain
Low parts of Bull Run Basin, Independence Valley and the region south of Wild Horse Reservoir and between the Independence Mountains and State Route 225 are composed of rolling hills, deep and shallow swales and benches. McAfee Peak is the highest point at 10,438 feet above sea level. The lowest elevation is at 5,600 feet and is west of the Bull Run Mountains.
Roughly 778 square miles
57.8% public land
Elevations range from 5,600-10,400 feet above sea level
Vegetation
Sagebrush dominates, but dense patches of aspens, limber pines and whitebark pines grow above 7,000 feet. Stands of bitterbrush, serviceberries, tobacco brush and chokecherries thrive. In drainages are wet meadows and dense willows.
Access
Mostly public land with excellent vehicle access except in some areas that can be reached by foot. Private parcels are scattered on both sides of the Independence Mountains, but hunters can get around them. Private land also is on the southeastern side of the Bull Run Mountains. These parcels are owned by the IL Ranch. Security employees patrol during hunting season. Petan Ranch owns property west of the Bull Run Mountains. Public access is limited to a few access routes, which include White Rock and Wall creeks.
The best access roads are Mountain City Highway (State Route 225) in the east, State Route 226 in the south and west, and County Road 11A in the southeastern Bull Run Mountains and the northwestern Independence Mountains. Jack Creek/North Fork Humboldt River Road reaches the central part of the Independence Mountains. National forest roads and other primitive routes provide good access to specific areas.
Camping and Lodging
Carry plenty of supplies, food, water and spare tires. Hunters may get motel rooms and supplies in Mountain City on State Route 225. Hunters may get a motel room in Elko and supplies and fuel in Owyhee and hot meals at the intersection of State Routes 225 and 226 and at Taylor Canyon Station in the southwest. Camping is allowed at Wild Horse Reservoir, Jacks Creek and almost anywhere else on public lands. RV parking with utilities is provided at Taylor Canyon Station.
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