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Show Taking Animal Isn't Everything on Hunt By Bruce Andersen DWR Information Officer Trying to offer advice on big game hunting is risky business. The recommendation is always the same hunt in an area you're familiar with; don't try to chase rainbows. Everyone wants something different from a big game hunting outing. Some look for an opportunity to get away from the city, the job, or the phone. Others seek a more social atmosphere "out with the boys." To some, taking a deer or elk is the main goal. Others need only to have a nice outing and perhaps see a few animals. Since seeing some game and getting a shot or two is important to most hunters, we can offer some general advice for the fall hunts. Utah returned to a more normal winter in 1984-85, so most deer and elk wintered well. Spring rains left the range in excellent shape. Abundant moisture means lots of vegetation; for big game it means cover and feed. Deer and elk will probably be scattered all over the mountain through a wide elevation range. They may not need to move around a lot to feed, water and bed down. That means hunters may have to go in and shake the bushes a bit. Don't be afraid to venture into thick cover in hopes of jumping a wary deer, but be sure you're wearing hunter orange clothing. The northern part of the state is recovering well after two tough winters in 1982 and '83. Anterless permits are being issued to help control herd growth; that's a good sign. Central southern deer and elk herds are doing very well. Some southern deer herds boast over SO percent hunter success. Remember though, taking an animal isn't everything. Whatever the reason you hunt, enjoy the fall big game seasons and have a safe and memorable experience. |