Jesse's Hunting > Hunting Info > California Report > California Deer > California A Zone Deer

California A Zone Deer

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

CHANGES FOR A ZONE FOR 2002. A2 HUNT ELIMINATED. This hunt is now incorporated in A1 hunt tag.

SEASON:

A Zone Rifle is Aug. 9- Sept. 21, 2003.

A  Zone Bow is July 12- Aug 2, 2003.

TAG AVAILIBILITY:  A zone  has 65,000 tags for 2003. 36,700 tags were sold in 1998.

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: 1 buck, forked horn or better per tag. Spike bucks may not be taken.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

The 2002 estimated hunter success was 27%.

The 2001 estimated hunter success was 10%, 2000 was 33% and 1999 was  29%.

 The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for A zone  is 24.5%, with an estimated 9007 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is 30:100. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is 196,000.

A ZONE HUNT BOUNDARY: In the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Kings, Marin, Monterey, Napa, San Benito, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, and Sonoma; and those portions of the counties of Colusa, Fresno, Kern, Lake, Mendocino, Los Angeles, Madera, Merced, Sacramento, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Stanislaus, Tulare, Ventura and Yolo lying south and west of a line beginning at the junction of the mouth of Hardy Creek (Mendocino County) and the Pacific Ocean; east along Hardy Creek to Highway 1; north along Highway 1 to Highway 101; south along Highway 101 to Commercial Avenue in the town of Willits; east on Commercial Avenue to the Hearst-Willits Road (County Road 306); north and east on the Hearst-Willits Road to the Main Eel River; southeast on the Main Eel River to Lake Pillsbury at Scott Dam; southeast along the west shore of Lake Pillsbury and the Rice Fork of the Eel River to Forest Service Road M-10; east on Forest Service Road M-10 to Forest Service Road 17N16; east on Forest Service Road 17N16 to Forest Service Road M-10; east on Forest Service Road M-10 to Letts Valley-Fouts Spring Road; east on the Letts Valley-Fouts Spring Road to the Elk Creek-Stonyford Road (County Road 306); north on the Elk Creek-Stonyford Road to the Glenn-Colusa county line; east along the Glenn-Colusa County line to Interstate 5; Interstate 5 south to Highway 99 in the City of Sacramento; Highway 99 south to Highway 166 in Kern County; west on Highway 166 to Highway 33; south on Highway 33 to Sespe Creek; east and south along Sespe Creek to Highway 126; east on Highway 126 to Interstate 5; south on Interstate 5 and 405 to Interstate 10; west on Interstate 10 to the Pacific Ocean.

DEER POPULATION STATUS The deer herds in this part of Zone A have the following trends:

Pacheco Deer Herd (western Stanislaus and Merced counties): Stable to increasing due to average to above average rainfall amounts since the early 1990s.

Avenal Deer Herd (western Fresno, Kings and Kern counties): Stable to decreasing.

PRIVATE LAND The majority of land in this part of Zone A is private. Hunting access is heavily regulated. You must have written permission from a landowner to hunt on posted private land.

PUBLIC LAND Both herds have public hunting opportunities available.

In Stanislaus County, 2,000 acres of county park land is available for hunting Del Puerto Canyon. A $10.00 permit is issued by the Stanislaus County Parks Department. The permits are issued for either Mon. -Thurs. or Fri. -Sun. and are available only by applying in person at the office of: Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation Department, 3800 Cornicopia Wy., Ste. C, Modesto, CA 95358. (209) 525-6750

In Merced County, public hunting is available at Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area. With the exception of the opening weekend of Zone A deer season, access to the wildlife area is through self-registration at the entrance. To hunt the opening weekend on the wildlife area, hunters must apply for a drawing that is conducted at the Los Banos Wildlife Area office. For more information on how to apply for the drawing, contact the office at (209) 826-0463. Deer may also be hunted at Lower Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area and San Luis Reservoir Wildlife Area using only shotguns (12 gauge and smaller) or bow and arrow. If using a bow and arrow, be aware of the dates of the Zone A archery season. Register for Lower Cottonwood Creek WA at San Luis Reservoir, Upper Cottonwood Creek, or O'Neill Forebay Wildlife Areas before entering. For further information on these wildlife areas, contact the Los Banos office. See below for maps of these areas.

In Fresno County, public hunting is available on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property in Panoche Hills area, west of interstate 5. There are three separate units of land: The Tumey Hills Unit is accessibly by traveling west on Panoche Road from Interstate 5, and the Panoche Hills and Griswold units may be reached by traveling west on Little Panoche Road from Interstate 5. For additional information and maps of the area, contact:

BLM  Hollister Field Office 20 Hamilton Court Hollister, CA 95023 Phone: (831) 630-5000 Fax: (831) 630-5055 . Information packets cost $4.00.

In Kern County, public access is limited to BLM land in the Temblor Mountain Range. For further information and a map of the area, contact the BLM office in Bakersfield.

BLM Bakersfield Field Office 3801 Pegasus Drive Bakersfield, CA 93308-6837 Telephone: (661) 391-6000 Fax: (661) 391-6040 Open 7:30 am - 4:15 PM Monday - Friday. Closed weekends and holidays.

In Monterey County there is Fort Hunter Liggett. and Stockdale Mountain.

Stockdale Mountain BLM I get a few emails on this topic every few weeks so this post is to help get the word out on hunting Stockdale Mountain. Heed the info or you WILL be cited!! This E-mail is from Joe about Stockdale Mountain.

I was out at Stockdale Mt. getting info. What I found out from residents up there was scary. The only access is a narrow point off of Slack Canyon. Rd. The boundaries are not marked clearly! Mr. Kester owns all land around the area and patrols it often and Fish and Game also roams through daily. I was told by one of the outfitters on your page (one I trust and have a personal relationship with) up there that this area is pretty much a trap for hunters. I was told that going up there is just cause for trouble. There are no friendly warnings, no matter what game is being pursued.

I hear that many hunters are sighted for poaching even when they are not meaning to do so. I suggest that you post a warning on your site for ALL TO BEWARE! and to know their location at all times. This area does have lots of hogs, but the terrain is thick with brush and hunters get in trouble when they look for a clearing (Kester's land). I suggest using a topo map with GPS in this area, and talking to DFG for boundaries. By the way, Kester is an outfitter and guide.

Thanx Joe.

There is also a discussion in our Muley hunting forum about this same problem at Stockdale Mtn.

http://www.jesseshuntingpage.com/cgi-bin/ikonboard//topic.cgi?forum=47&topic=404

MAPS U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above, and the price is about $4.00 per map. Additionally, U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from stores that sell drafting and backpacking supplies. Maps of state wildlife areas may be obtained by calling the Los Banos Wildlife Area office at the number listed above, or by contacting the Department's Regional Headquarters in Fresno at (559) 243-4005.

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

San Luis Reservoir Wildlife Area Map - Merced Co.

Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area Map - Merced Co.

CAMPING For information about camping on public land, contact the appropriate agency at one of the phone numbers listed above. Please do not camp near springs or watering holes -- they may be critical to wildlife survival. Camping near water sources may preclude use by wildlife and may be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER? Hunters should move away from areas of heavy human use and vehicle traffic and look for recently-used deer trails and bedding areas. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety's sake, never use your rifle scope to look for deer. While use of Hunter Orange is not required, its use provides better hunter recognition and its use is encouraged.

The deer in this portion of Zone A are resident (non-migratory). Deer activity is generally greater in the early and later parts of the day. Look for deer in areas with adequate thermal cover and water sources nearby. When scouting for deer, look for tracks, pellets, scrapes and other indicators of deer activity in a particular area. If access is obtained on private land, ask the landowner for suggestions about where deer may be found.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

MA1 Zone Boundary: That portion of San Luis Obispo County lying within the Los Padres National Forest.

Season:  MA1 Nov. 29- Dec. 14, 2003.

Tag Availability:  MA1 has 150 tags and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002, 2001 and 2000. In 1999 there were 150 tags. In 2002 289 hunters applied for the 150 tags.

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: MA1 - One deer either sex. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length. Either-Sex Deer Defined. Either-sex deer are defined as antlerless deer as described above, or legal bucks that have two or more points in the upper two-thirds of either antler. Spike bucks may not be taken. Spike bucks may not be taken.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:

The 2002 estimated hunter success was 12%

The 2001 estimated hunter success was 20%, 2000 was 18% and 1999 was 18%.

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

ACCESS: Good access on public lands.

Contact Info : PH# (831) 649-2870.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

MA3 Zone Boundary: All of Santa Barbara County.

Season:  MA3 Nov. 29- Dec. 14, 2003.

Tag Availability:  MA3 has 150 tags and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002, 2001 and 2000. In 1999 there were 150 tags. There were 164 apps for the 150 tags in 2002.

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: MA3 - One buck, forked horn or better, per tag.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:

The 2002 estimated hunter success was 12%

The 2001 estimated hunter success was 18%, 2000 was 20%, 1999 was 3%.

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

ACCESS: Fair access on public lands. Vehicle use limited.

Contact Info: PH# (562) 342-7145.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

M7 Ventura Muzzleloader Either Sex Deer Hunt

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

MA7 Zone Boundary: All of Ventura County.

Season:  M7 Nov. 29- Dec. 14, 2003.

Tag Availability:  M7 has 150 tags for 2003. There were 150 M7 tags in 2002, 2001, 2000 and 1999 and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2001 and 2000. In 2002 there were 245 apps for the 150 tags.

Estimated 2002 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  is 19%.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  is 7%.

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  is 13%.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:   was 25%.

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: 1 deer either-sex per tag. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length. Either-Sex Deer Defined. Either-sex deer are defined as antlerless deer as described above, or legal bucks that have two or more points in the upper two-thirds of either antler. Spike bucks may not be taken.

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

ACCESS: Good access on public lands.

Contact Info: PH# (562) 342-7145.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

G11 (Vandenberg AFB Either Sex, Military Only)

Due to the 9/11/01 attack there is no access to Vandenburg AFB for civilians. Please contact Ph# 805-606-6804 for current info.

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

G11 Zone Boundary: That portion of Santa Barbara County lying within the exterior boundaries of Vandenberg Air Force Base.

Season:  Unknown, please contact Ph# 805-606-6804 for current info. There was no G11 hunt for civilians 2002 and 2001. Last G11 civilian hunt was in 1999.

Tag Availability: G11 has 500 tags for the 2003 hunt. Military and Dept. of Defense employees only. Special Conditions: In the event the Commanding Officer cancels the hunt, G-11 tagholders will only have the option of exchanging the unused tag for any remaining deer tag or receiving a refund.

 BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: G11 - One either-sex deer per tag. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length. Either-Sex Deer Defined. Either-sex deer are defined as antlerless deer as described above, or legal bucks that have two or more points in the upper two-thirds of either antler. Spike bucks may not be taken. Spike bucks may not be taken.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for G11 is ?

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

ACCESS

Contact Info - Vandenberg AFB Game Warden, 30 SFW/SFOW, 108 Colorado Blvd. Vandenberg, CA. 93437. Ph# 805-606-6804. Vandenberg AFB Rod and Gun Club ph# is 805-606-4560. The website for the AFB is Vandenberg AFB. The Vandenberg AFB fish and game regs can be found in this .pdf document here.

More info at Vandenburg AFB

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

I was there last week hunting pigs (shot my first one!) and saw a lot of deer. Mostly does and a forked buck. I have been there twice now and always see a lot of deer moving most of the day! G11 will be a good hunt if you want to get a deer! - Phil

G21 (Ventana Wilderness Buck)

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

G21 Zone Boundary: That portion of Monterey County and the Los Padres National Forest within the exterior boundaries of the Ventana Wilderness.

Season:  G21 - Nov. 8- Nov 30, 2003.

Tag Availability: G21 has 25 tags for 2003 and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002, 2001 and 2000. In 1999 there were 50 G21 tags. In 2002 there was 105 apps for the 25 tags.

 BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: G21 - One buck, forked horn or better, per tag.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

The 2002 estimated hunter success was 20%

The 2001 estimated hunter success was 20%, 2000 was 20% and 1999 was 10%.

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

ACCESS: Fair access to public land, steep, brushy, rugged, vehicle restrictions.

Contact Info: PH# (831) 649-2870.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

A24 Monterey Archery Either Sex

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

A24 Zone Boundary: All of Monterey County, except Fort Ord Military Reservation.

Season: A24 Oct. 11 - Nov. 9, 2003.

Tag Availability:  A24 has 100 tags for 2003 and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002, 2001 and 2000. In 1999 there were 100 A24 tags. There were 131 apps for the 100 tags in 2002.

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: A24 deer, either sex. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length. Either-Sex Deer Defined. Either-sex deer are defined as antlerless deer as described above, or legal bucks that have two or more points in the upper two-thirds of either antler. Spike bucks may not be taken. Spike bucks may not be taken.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

The 2002 estimated hunter success was141%.

The 2001 estimated hunter success was 21%, 2000 was 24% and 1999 was 18%.

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

ACCESS: Fair access on public land, steep terrain, possible fire closures on National Forest land.

Contact Info: PH# (831) 649-2870.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

A25 (Lake Sonoma Archery Either Sex) and J1 (Lake Sonoma Junior Either Sex)

GENERAL This information has been prepared to assist you in selecting a hunt during the deer tag application process or in preparing for a hunt after you have received a deer tag. Please read important information on zone boundaries, tag quotas, hunting seasons, bag limits and special conditions in the CALIFORNIA HUNTING REGULATIONS (MAMMALS AND FURBEARERS). Articles on big game hunting and information about how to apply for deer tags may be found in the current year's issue of BIG GAME HUNTING. If you have further questions, please call (559) 243-4005.

A25 Zone Boundary: That portion of Sonoma County within the boundaries of the Lake Sonoma Area, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) property described as follows: Beginning at the intersection of Hot Springs Road and the COE boundary; east and south along the boundary line to the intersection with Brush Creek; west along the north bank of Brush Creek (shoreline) to the Dry Creek arm of Lake Sonoma; south along the shoreline of the Dry Creek arm to Smittle Creek; north along the COE property line to Dry Creek; east along the COE boundary across Cherry Creek, Skunk Creek, and Yorty Creek to the point of beginning. Highway 299; west on Highway 299 to the point of beginning.

Season:

A25 Oct.4- Oct. 27, 2003.

J1 Nov. 1- Nov. 2, 2003.

Tag Availability: 

A25 has 25 tags and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002, 2001 and 200. In 1999 there were 25 A25 tags. In 2002 there were 213 apps for the 25 tags.

J1 has 25 tags and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw 2002, 2001 and 2000. In 1999 there were 25 J1 tags. In 2002 there were 109 apps for the 25 tags.

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT:

J1 and A25 - 1 deer, either sex. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length. Either-Sex Deer Defined. Either-sex deer are defined as antlerless deer as described above, or legal bucks that have two or more points in the upper two-thirds of either antler. Spike bucks may not be taken. Spike bucks may not be taken.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  

A25 estimated hunter success is 2002- 40%, 2000 - 36%, 1999 - 32%.

J1 estimated hunter success rate is 2002- 36%, 2000 - 36%, 1999 - 60%.

Contact Info: PH# (707) 944-5500.

MAPS

USFS maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above. The maps are generally about $4.00 or $7.00 for waterproof maps. U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  Maps of Fish and Game wildlife areas may be obtained by calling (916) 358-2877. If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet I have this on my webpage here: aerial photos or topo maps. Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

FIELD REPORTS

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .

1999 Scouting Reports

I live in Coalinga and I can tell you Mineral Springs is dead. The Hmong trespassers have cleaned the area out. If you go past Condon Peak and past Spanish Lake out to Wright Mountain,  you will run into a steel gate. You can walk in from there. I have seen numerous bucks over 20" the last year and some pretty good starts this year.  Go in from Los Gatos Rd. You should definitely get pig tags. From the motorcycle area in Clear Creek it takes about an hour to get to Wright Mountain. Sportin

Sportin is right! If you can can walk in from Wright Mountain you can do well. I can tell you there used to be access through Joaquin Ridge but BLM let Mouren Farming put up a gate. It is still government up there, but they keep trying to run people off. I killed a 25" forked horn there last year. Skagman

I've never hunting around Lake Lopez, but I'm familiar with Miranda Pines. Its pretty good habitat, but becomes very crowded early and late in the season. I would look further down Sierra Madre Road and hunt around McPherson Peak. There is a 2 year old burn on the north side of the road on the slope leading down to New Cuyama. You can also hunt this burn from the bottom through Aliso Campground. The south side of Sierra Madre Road has big ridges leading down to the Sisquoc River. Some guys get nice bucks every year off those ridges. Another option is to leave your car at the corrals just past McPherson and hike/bike/horse into the Painted Rock campground and hunt that area. The vehicle closure keeps most people out. Another area is around Santa Barbara Potrero. You get here through Santa Barbara Canyon. There's a prescribed burn on the north side of the road and a few good bucks were taken out of the area last year. San Luis Obispo County is probably still on the upward part of the curve in buck production. The last several years have been very good to SLO in terms of wildfires. There's is a lot of promising country in the south parts of the county. The Rock Front Ranch access should hold a lot of potential. Go after the opener as there will be crowds on the opener. On the south side of Santa Barbara County, a lot of people hunt around Figueroa Mountain. It gets a lot of traffic as access is easy by vehicle on Figueroa Mountain Road. However, if you're willing to hike, you can get away from the crowd and there's lots of good country. The Marre Burn is probably maxing out in putting out bucks. Get good maps and scout.  Steelshot
 

Fort Hunter Liggett is opening again after being closed due to the 9/11 attacks. Make sure you have your driver's license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance to get on the fort. You WILL be checked at the gate.

HUNT AREA:That portion of Monterey County lying within the exterior boundaries of the Hunter Liggett Military Reservation, except as restricted by the Commanding Officer.

 SEASON:

J10 -Oct. 4 - Oct. 13, 2003. Saturdays and Sundays and Federal holidays only.

G8 is Oct. 4- OCt. 14, 2003. Saturdays and Sundays only. G8 was a new hunt for 2000.

CHANGES FOR 2003: J10 hunt season modified to two consecutive weekends, including Columbus Day holiday, with the season opener on the first Saturday in October (October 4). G8 season shortened due to reduced staffing levels. Hunting season limited to two consecutive weekends, including Columbus Day holiday, with the season opener on the first Saturday in October (October 4).

BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT:

J10 One deer either sex.

G8 one antlerless deer. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length. Either-Sex Deer Defined. Either-sex deer are defined as antlerless deer as described above, or legal bucks that have two or more points in the upper two-thirds of either antler. Spike bucks may not be taken. Spike bucks may not be taken.

 NUMBER OF TAGS: J10 has 30 general public tags and 10 military tags and the tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002, 2001 and 2000. In 2002 there were 94 apps for the 30 tags.

G8 has 60 ( 30 military, 30 general public) tags. The G8 hunt was not allowed in 1999, but was back in 2000. There were 198 apps for the 30 tags in 2002.

Special Conditions: In the event the Commanding Officer cancels the hunt, G-8 tagholders will only have the option of exchanging the unused tag for any remaining deer tag or receiving a refund.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

J10 estimated hunter success was 2002- 85%, 1999 - 35%.

The 2001 estimated hunter success for J10 and G8 is unknown since the hunts were canceled.

G8 estimated hunter success was 2002- 55%, 2000 - 67%.

More info at Fort Hunter Liggett

Make sure you have your vehicle registration, proof of insurance and driver's license when you enter Camp Roberts. You will be turned away if you're missing any documents. Due to increases security, you will now be checked very thoroughly at all military installations. You may also have to show and register your firearms.

 HUNT AREA: That portion of San Luis Obispo County lying within the exterior boundaries of Camp Roberts, except as restricted by the Commanding Officer.

 SEASON: August 25 - September 1, 2003.

 BAG AND POSSESSION LIMIT: One antlerless deer per tag. Antlerless Deer Defined. Antlerless deer are defined as female deer, fawns of either sex other than spotted fawns, and male deer with an unbranched antler on one or both sides which is not more than three inches in length.

 NUMBER OF TAGS: 30 (15 military and 15 general public). The tags were filled in the Premium Hunt Draw in 2002 and 2001. There were 15 general public tags in 1999. In 2002 there were 153 apps for the 15 public tags.

In the event the Commanding Officer cancels the hunt, G-9 tagholders will only have the option of exchanging the unused tag for any remaining deer tag or receiving a refund.

Estimated Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  

The 2001 estimated hunter success for G9 was 70% - 2002, 2001 - 80%, 2000 - 33% and 1999 - 50%.

HUNTING INFORMATION LINE

Camp Roberts, CA, 93451-5000. Telephone: (805) 238-8425 or (805) 238-8167. Open on weekends and federal holidays only. Closed Xmas Eve and Xmas Day. Located on the Monterey and San Luis Obispo County line on Highway 101, just north of the town of San Miguel. Click here for map.

WHERE TO STAY:Campground: Sites: 12 Total, 12 with water, sewer and electric, 12 with 30 amp electric. Daily rates : $10 to $10. Membership: US military active/retired. Season: Open all year

WHAT CAN YOU HUNT AT CAMP ROBERTS? 35,000 acres of streams, open grasslands and oak woodland. Wild pig, jackrabbit and coyotes, all year.  Refer to DFG regs for seasons to hunt bobcat, rabbit (cottontail), quail, tree squirrel, turkey (spring), dove and band-tailed pigeon. Hunting hours extend from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. Please remember that Camp Roberts is a military installation and all hunting and fishing areas are subject to closure at any time due to military training.

HUNTING FEES AND LICENSE:  $15.00 daily access fee. $55.00 for annual pass.

RESTRICTIONS: If anyone knows please email us at .

MEAT STORAGE AND SKINNING: If anyone knows please email us at .

SHOOTING RANGE: There is no target shooting or range at Camp Roberts.

CAMP ROBERT MAPS: California DFG run the hunting program on Camp Roberts and they have maps.

U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can also be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores or ordered online here USGS Topo maps.  If you would like info on aerial photos, computer topo map programs and how to download free topo maps off the Internet, I have this on my other webpages here: aerial photos or topo maps.

More info at Camp Roberts

FIELD REPORTS

Plenty of deer to chase here but it's awful hot in August and September, usually near 100 degrees. This means it's a morning and evening hunt unless your part Apache. Plenty of water holes to sit on. Poison oak in the creeks to watch out for also. - Jesse

If you have any pics or stories you would like to share about this hunt, please email them to us at .