Quick Tips
- Big mule deer are more common south of the Missouri River
- Parts of this unit require a hike to get to a great hunting spot
- Know where you're at on the map = State Trust Lands and PLOTS can change year to year
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-150" | 170"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-150" | 160"+ |
On The Ground
The majority of this unit includes North Dakota’s secondary mule deer range. The mighty Missouri River flows west to east through this unit before filling lake Sakakawea at the unit’s eastern edge. This unit delivers an excellent opportunity for a public land DIY hunt with the Little Missouri National Grassland boasting 40,000+ acres, and the Lewis and Clark WMA with over 14,000 acres of public access.
Large mule deer bucks have been seen and harvested south of the Missouri in this unit.
Terrain
You’ll find a variety of hotspots for both mule and whitetail deer in unit 3B1. Primarily directly north and south of the river in some extremely difficult terrain. The steep inclines on public access areas turn many hunters away. There are plenty of spring-fed creek bottoms and drainages branching off the Missouri river that hold nice bucks. There’s definitely some rough, steep terrain in this unit that can make a hunt worthwhile if you’re willing to put in the miles on foot. If you’re willing to take on the terrain on foot and pack a deer out, you’ll be in a great position for a successful harvest.
Roughly 2,180 square miles
18.7% public land
Elevations range from 1,900 – 2,500 ft
Vegetation
Thick cottonwood and scattered ash and willow trees cover most of the creek bottoms near the Missouri River. You’ll also find an occasional patch of evergreens, but cottonwoods are the most common trees you’ll encounter in unit 3B1.
Access
Highways and county roads will get you near most hunting areas. Depending on where you’re hunting near the Missouri River, you can usually get close, but there are some spots that will require a long hike. Steep terrain along the river leaves many spots inaccessible with a vehicle. Heading east out of Williston will get you to a variety of public access spots north of the river, while going north from Watford City will get you to the Little Missouri National Grassland. Take note that you’ve got to travel quite a ways east to cross the river if you don’t cross at the Highway 85 bridge southwest of Williston. There are numerous State Trust Lands and PLOTS areas scattered throughout the unit, both north and south of the Missouri River. Keep in mind that the livestock producers leasing State Trust Land may have public access closed if they have livestock in the area. Creek bottoms and drainages coming off the Missouri River make some areas impossible to access in a pickup. Heading east out of Williston will get you to a variety of public access spots north of the river, while going north from Watford City will get you to the Little Missouri National Grassland. Overall, Unit 3B1 is an excellent unit for both whitetail and mule deer. Boasting plenty of deer and large public access areas that can support many hunters makes this a great unit to draw for.
Camping and Lodging
Primitive camping, established campgrounds and RV parks are abundant along the Missouri River. Williston, Watford City and Newtown all have motels available. Williston and Watford City also have a variety of sporting goods stores in case you forget anything.
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