Quick Tips
- Scout and learn the unit, it is big country
- Have a detailed map that shows road access
- Plan to hunt all or as much of the season as possible
- Great trout fishing in Fish Lake for a variety of species
- Located near Capitol Reef National Park
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 310"-330" | 340"+ |
On The Ground
Aspen-covered ridges, scattered lakes, and views of Capital Reef National Park from Thousand Lake Mountain, this unit holds healthy herds of elk. With good public access and moderate terrain, this area gives hunters a fun, enjoyable hunt.
Managed for trophy bulls, this unit offers hunters willing to wait the chance at a good bull. With limited tag numbers and a large unit, you can be selective with what bull you harvest. There is a premium tag available that allows hunting during all seasons. Good public access is available in this area.
Terrain
Located in the central part of the state, much of this unit is higher elevation with rolling ridges and steep creek drainages. Most of the ridges are heavily forested with conifer and aspen trees, breaking into large meadows that typically have a spring or a lake. This unit also includes the Thousand Lake Mountain. A flat top plateau that leads to red rock canyon country to the east and to farmland in the south and west. Off of the mountain are rolling ridges and creek drainages covered in conifer forests.
Roughly 1,192 square miles
88% public land
Elevations from 5,200-11,500 feet
Vegetation
Low elevations in this unit have dry, desert rolling hills and flats. They also have some grass, prickly-pear cactus, and sagebrush with scattered pinyon pines and juniper trees here. Middle elevations are covered in ponderosa pines and oak brush with sagebrush continuing through this elevation as well. Higher elevations have scattered aspen groves with steep slopes covered in conifer forests.
Access
Much of the unit is part of the Fish Lake National Forest or desert land managed by the BLM, giving great public access. There is road access on all sides of the unit with well-maintained dirt roads leading to less-maintained four-wheel-drive roads or ATV trails. Most of these roads will be closed in the winter and weather can make access to some areas difficult.
ATVs recommended
Four-wheel drive recommended
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp along roads. There are several locations that have good, flat camping locations for travel trailers or tents. There are a couple of designated campgrounds open to the public located near Fishlake and Johnson Reservoir, Goosberry, and Elk Horn. Fishlake has a good bear population so make sure to keep your camp clean. Torrey, Bicknell, Loa, and Salina are the nearest towns and some offer lodging, but it’s limited.
Arrive early for better camping locations
Expect to camp near other hunters
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