Home > Deer Hunting > Mule Deer Management

Other than elk, Mule Deer are probably the second reason most hunters choose to come west. There deer are big and elusive and simply a true challenge to hunt. Mule Deer tend to be territorial, which means they may not roam quite as far as other animals nor do they migrate. However, when elk and deer find a place they like, they stay.

Dome Mountain Ranch spends a great deal of time and energy on enhancing the habitat for these animals. Over the past several years, it has been incredibly rewarding to witness the changes in numbers, size and health of the animals. The 5,000 private acres already provides excellent habitat. By removing domestic livestock, fences and adjusting our hunting techniques, Dome Mountain Ranch is at the forefront of natural habitat restoration.

Although we do things to aid these animals, they are all still wild. We do not feed, fence or haze them in any way. All we have done is given them back what years of poor management and land use can take away.

There was a time when hunters were able to shoot any size deer or elk they wanted. Now, new regulations do not allow hunters to shoot a young spike elk. We joined this great plan by placing certain restrictions on the type and size of Mule Deer, which we would allow hunters to harvest. In addition, a reasonable trophy fee makes hunters reconsider the need to simply shoot something versus the desire to hunt for a real trophy. The benefits of the philosophy have come full circle and are therefore being enjoyed by the many hunters who add Mule Deer to their tag.

We also spend a great deal of time keeping down our predator population which can take a great toll on newborn deer and elk. In doing so, over time both deer and elk can find comfort and refuge on the ranch. In the end, everything adds up to more opportunity for hunter success.