Jesse's Hunting > Hunting Info > California Report > California Deer > California Deer D Zones 11 -19

California Deer D Zones 11 -19

2002 D Zone Forecast

From the California DFG 2002 Summer Edition of "Tracks" magazine, by John Higley.

South Coast/Desert (DAUs 7 & 8)

The southern zones included in DAU 7 are D11, D14, D15, D16 and D19. The area extends from Los Angeles County to the Mexico border and east as far as Palm Springs. Hunter success went as high as 12 percent in D16 in 2000 and went back to a more normal 8 percent in 2001. In the other DAU 7 zones success stayed around 7 or 8 percent.

While that isn't high, the rugged hills of southern California have never provided red hot hunting, just an opportunity to get out in the most urbanized region of the state. A quick look at deer population estimates shows a slight downward trend in DAU 7 from 17,400 in 2000 to 16,537 in 2001.

DAU 8 is comprised of the arid southern desert zones of D12, D17 and X9c. The total tag quota for the three zones is 2,300 and the annual harvest usually varies from 7 to 11 percent. The total population estimate for these three zones in 2001 was 4,664; in 2000 it was 4,060. That seems like quite a jump but the official line is that deer numbers are stable. This is a vast area with few deer and restricted access to much of the region which is designated national preserve or wilderness.

Due to the extreme drought in the Angeles National Forest the forest was closed to recreational use on 10/7/02. DFG has said they will refund deer tags if less then 9 days are left in rifle season when the forest reopens. You options are to hunt private land or BLM if available. You can also switch zone tags for $6.25 for a tag in an unfilled zone. There were some D13 tags available but it will be crowded. Check daily with the NF in your hunt area on closures because the NF is not know for spreading any info to hunters in a timely manner. Info can be found below at the links or in the JHP Muley Forum.

Angeles National Forest Supervisor's Office  701 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia, CA 91006. (626) 574-1613, (626) 574-5200. (562) 342-7145. FAX (626) 574-5233.

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.

Season:

D11 Rifle is Oct 12 - Nov 10, 2002.

D11 Bow is Sept 7- Sept 29, 2002.

A31 bow is Sept 26 - Dec 31, 2002.

The A31 season close date is changed for 2002 according to DFG in order to complete harvest and population data analysis by mid January as required.

A23 bow hunt has been eliminated to end redundancy with A31 harvest objectives. The change will cause no reduction in hunter opportunity.

J13 Junior is Nov 16 - Nov 24, 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D11 rifle has 5,550 tags for 2002, 2001 had 5,500 tags and the tags did not sell out in 2001 or 2000. 3,894  D11 tags were sold in 1999. Tag good for D11, D13 and D15, but not Camp Pendleton or Santa Catalina Island.

A D11 tag can also be used in zone D13 and D15 but not Camp Pendelton.

A23 bow has 1,500 tags and the tags did not sell out in 2000. 402 A23 tags were issued in 1999. There were 1,500 A23 tags in 1999.

A31 bow has 1,000 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out 7/2/01. 2001 had 500 tags and the tags sold out 07/19/00. There were 500 A31 tags in 1999. The tags sold out 9/8/98 in the 1998 season.

J13 Junior has 40 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out in the Premium Tag Draw in 2001. 2001 had 40 tags and the tags were sold out in the premium drawing in 2000.

Bag and Possession Limit: 

D11 One buck, forked horn or better per tag.

A31 and J13 - 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.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

D11 zone  is 7%..

A23 zone is unknown..

A31 zone is 6%.

J13 zone is 23%.

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D11 zone  is 9%. The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for A23 zone  is 1.%. The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for A31 zone is 7%. The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for J13 zone is 18%.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for D11 zone  is 7%. The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for A23 zone  is 3%. The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for A31 zone  is  4%.

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D11 zone  is 8.6%, with an estimated 336 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for A23 zone  is 3.5%, with an estimated 14 deer harvested. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for A31 zone  is  6.4%, with an estimated 32 deer harvested.

D11, J13 and A31 Zone Boundary:  Those portions of Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, within a line beginning at the intersection of Interstate 5 and Highway 138, south of Gorman; east on Highway 138 to Highway 14; south on Highway 14 to Palmdale and Highway 138; east on Highways 138 and 18 to Interstate 15; south on interstates 15 and 15E to Interstate 10; west on Interstate 10 to Interstate 405; north on Interstates 405 and 5 to the point of beginning. Special Conditions: Hunters that possess a D11 deer tag may also hunt in zones D13 and D15 except for Camp Pendleton or Santa Catalina.

Shooting Hours: Hunting and shooting hours for big game, including but not limited to deer, antelope, elk, bear, and wild pig shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

PUBLIC LAND

Angeles National Forest Supervisor's Office  701 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia, CA 91006. (626) 574-1613, (626) 574-5200. (562) 342-7145. FAX (626) 574-5233.

Los Angeles River Ranger District Office  4600 Oak Grove Drive, Flintridge, CA 91011. Terry Ellis, District Ranger. (818) 790-1151, FAX (818) 790-5392, TTD (818) 790-9523, M-F 8:00 am- 4:30 pm

San Gabriel River Ranger District 110 N. Wabash Ave., Glendora, CA 91740. (626) 335-1251. TTD - Same # - Ext. 256, FAX (626) 914-3790. M-F 8:00 am- 4:30 pm

Santa Clara/Mojave Rivers Ranger District  Office  30800 Bouquet Cyn. Rd., Saugus, CA 91350. Mike Wickman District Ranger. (661)296-9710. FAX (661) 296-5847. TTD (661) 296-9710. M-F 8:00 am- 4:30 pm

BLM Palm Springs Office  Palm Springs South Coast Field Office, 690 Garnet Ave, P.O. Box 1260, Palm Springs, CA 92258. Field Manager - James Kenna. Phone (760) 251-4800. Fax  (760) 251-4899

CDF California Dept. of Forestry  You can check on current fire conditions here. Stop in and talk to the fireman/firewomen since they live and work in the forests.

ACCESS

MAPS

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

Click here for Los Angeles County Shooting Zone map. This map shows where you can use archery, shotgun and rifle to hunt. The map is big (426k), so be patient for it to load. It should take about 2 minutes to load. The map is published by the Los Angeles County Fish and Game Commission and the issue date is 1994. You can save this map file to your computer by right clicking on the map if you use Internet Explorer, and save the map .jpg file to your hard drive. You can make a folder on your "C" drive called "Hunting", them a sub folder called "Maps", then save it there. You can make new folders on you "C" drive by highlighting the "C" drive while using Windows Explorer, then click on the "File" drop down menu in the upper right. Now click on "New", then "Folder", this will put a new folder on your "C" drive. Right click the "New" folder and rename it whatever you want to call it.

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS

Weather early in the season is mild to hot with cold nights. Snow can occur anytime during the deer season and hunters should always be prepared for this possibility.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

Current Bug, Snake and Varmint Reports in the San Gabriel Mountains  

CAMPING

There are several USFS campgrounds within the hunt zone and these are shown on USFS maps. Informal camping is allowed on USFS lands, but campfire permits are required. Permits may be obtained from any USFS, U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or California Department of Forestry (CDF) office. During fire season, special regulations may apply and it is best to contact the local USFS, BLM or CDF office for the latest information.

Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER?

Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include:

Meat Processing

Dave's Whole Service Meats 23736 Lyons Ave. off the 5 Fwy, Newhall, Ca..  Hours: 9:00 to 6:00 M-Sunday. PH# (661) 259-3597. Game must be skinned and field dressed. $75.00 to butcher a deer. Thanks to "Hook" for this info

Green Acres Market 2918 Los Angeles Ave. Simi Valley, Ca. 93065. PH# (805) 526-1312. Hours: 10 - 7 Mon. -Sun.  Costs: $.50 per lb. sausage $1.25 lb. You must have tag and animal skinned to process here. Elk and hogs also processed.

FIELD REPORTS

8/30/99 The Shinn Fire that burned off Mount Baldy Road opened up some brush on the slopes here all the way up to the electronic site at Sunset Peak.

The Bridge Fire at East Fork Road and Highway 39  burned starting at San Gabriel Dam on the west side of Highway 39 north to Smith Mountain and  Pigeon Ridge, northwest  on West Fork Road a mile, west to the ridgetop, and east of Highway 39 and north of the OHV  area. Some of the San Gabriel River creek bottom burned. The slopes are really open now for glassing a long ways.

8/20/99 I've been working in the San Gabriel Mtns a bit lately and 3 bucks are hanging out together just north of Henniger Flats above Pasadena. 1 is a nice fat forkie. Make sure you stay clear of the campground area. Talk to the forestry people for current info. Jose at 626-794-0675. No bears have been seen in the area.  Seeing quite a few does around the experimental forest above San Dimas. 1 nice buck got whacked by a car on Mt. Baldy road several weeks ago. There are a few other bucks left.  spectr17

1998 Season

A nice 4x4 was seen last week, 11/25/98 in north Claremont off Mount Baldy Road just below the dam in the powerlines. Anyone still got a tag?

HUNTING SUPPLIES

BEST EATS

CHEAPEST GAS

GOOD MOTELS

GUIDES

MUST SEE SIGHTS

MEAT PROCESSING/BUTCHERS

Burbank Meat Locker .... Burbank, Ca. Ph # (323)-849-1058.
Green Acres Market ....  2918 Los Angeles Ave. Simi Valley, Ca. 93065. ph# (805) 526-1312. Hours: 10 - 7 Mon. -Sun.  Costs: $.50 per lb. sausage $1.25 lb. You must have tag and animal skinned to process here. Elk, deer, and hogs.
Harmony Farms .... 2824 Foothill Blvd. La Crescenta, CA 91214. PH# 818 248-3069. Fax# 818 248-0361. They seem to be reasonably priced. They do not smoke hams or make sausage links, only ground. I ask for the trimmings and hams and take them to Schriners in La Crescenta. Schriners is a German Meat Market that does excellent sausages in a variety of ways. - Matt D.
Hick's Meat Market .... 1553 S. La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638.
Pomona Food Locker .... 240 S. Oak, Pomona, Ca. ph# 909 629-9649  $59.00 for butchering of average deer. $10.00 to skin. $1.00 per lb. extra for pork added to sausage.  $.59 per lb. for larger deer. Hours: 8:30 to 5:30 M-F, 8:30 to 3:00 Sat. Closed Sunday.

TAXIDERMISTS

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.

Season:

D12 Rifle is Nov 02 - Nov 24, 2002.

D12 Bow is Oct 5- Oct 27, 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D12 zone has 950 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out 8/30/01. 2001 had 950 and the tags sold out 8/7/00. There were 950 D12 tags in 1999 and D12 tags sold out 8/2/99. D12 tags sold out 8/20/98 in the 1998 season.

Bag and Possession Limit:  D12 One buck, forked horn or better per tag.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 2001 estimated hunter success rate for D12 zone  is 7%.

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D12 zone  is 8%.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for D12 zone  is 7%.

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D12 zone  is 5.5%, with an estimated 52 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown.

D12 Zone Boundary: Those portions of Imperial, Riverside and San Bernardino counties within a line beginning at Highway 62 and the Twentynine Palms-Amboy Road in Twentynine Palms; east along Highway 62 to Highway 95 at Vidal Junction; north on Highway 95 to Interstate 40; east on Interstate 40 to the California-Arizona state line; south along this state line to the U.S.-Mexican border; west along the U.S.-Mexican border to Highway 111 in Calexico; north on Highway 111 to Interstate 10; north and west on Interstate 10 to Highway 62; north and east on Highway 62 to the point of beginning.

Shooting Hours: Hunting and shooting hours for big game, including but not limited to deer, antelope, elk, bear, and wild pig shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

PUBLIC LAND

BLM Palm Springs Office  Palm Springs South Coast Field Office, 690 Garnet Ave, P.O. Box 1260, Palm Springs, CA 92258. Field Manager - James Kenna. Phone (760) 251-4800. (760) 922-4686. Fax (760) 251-4899

BLM El Centro Field Office   1661 S. 4th St., El Centro  CA  92243. (760)  337-4400. Monday - Friday 7:45AM - 4:30PM

Cibola National Wildlife Refuge: P.O. Box AP, Blythe, CA 92226. Phone: (520) 857-3253, Fax: (520) 857-3420. Email: R2RW_CI@fws.gov

ACCESS

Wilderness area severely restrict vehicle access. 4 X 4 vehicle highly recommended. D-12 is mostly compromised of low desert country with washes consisting of iron wood and palo verde vegetation. A major portion of the area consists of BLM land with some small private holdings. Hunters should consult maps carefully as there are numerous wilderness areas within the zone where hunting is allowed, but vehicles are not, and the Chocolate Mountain Ariel Bombing and Gunnery Range where access is off limits to all but the military. For additional information on land uses and desert access guides, contact the El Centro BLM Office at 1661 S. 4th St. in El Centro, 92243, telephone (760) 337-4400. BLM Maps and access guides of use to D-12 hunters include: Yuma, Trigo Mountains, Salton Sea, and El Centro.

MAPS

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS

During general hunting season in November, usually pleasant conditions prevail, but occasional warm or cold temperatures can occur, and some light rain.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

CAMPING

Most of the area is open for camping but hunters should check with BLM for restrictions. Camping is closed to all within one quarter mile of a natural or man-made watering hole. Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER?

While population trends remain stable, these are desert mule deer and the take is usually low with a 3 to 5 percent success rate. Nevertheless, a few trophy bucks are taken each year. Deer are usually dispersed throughout the unit but are most commonly found in washes that contain iron wood and palo verde vegetation. After opening day, some deer may move into mountains and rocky areas. Four wheel drive is advised within most of the unit due to sandy washes and steep terrain. The bulk of D-12 deer taken come from south of Interstate 10, with a smaller number harvested in the Whipple Mountains and Riverside Mountains north of Interstate 10. Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

Leon Lesicka at PH# 760-344-2793 is the man to contact about the deer in this zone.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include:

FIELD REPORTS

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

Desert Wildlife Unlimited

DWU's work in the southern California desert has stretched over nearly three decades and includes major guzzler and water source work that has helped maintain desert wildlife populations, including mule deer, dove, quail, pheasant and bighorn sheep.

TO JOIN DWU

Desert Wildlife Unlimited
Imperial Valley Chapter
4780 Highway 111
Brawley, California 92227
Leon Lesicka 760-344-2793

$10.00 1 year
$100.00 Lifetime

Include: Name, Mailing Address and Phone#

HUNTING SUPPLIES

BEST EATS

CHEAPEST GAS

GOOD MOTELS

GUIDES

MUST SEE SIGHTS

MEAT PROCESSING/BUTCHERS

TAXIDERMISTS

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.

Season:

D13 Rifle is Oct 12 - Nov 10, 2002.

D12 Bow is Sept 7- Sept 29, 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D13 zone  has 4,000  tags and D13 tags did not sell out in 2000. There were 4,000 D13 tags in 1999 and 3,251 tags were issued for D13 in 1999. A D13 tag is good for D11, D13 and D15 zones, but not Camp Pendleton or Santa Catalina Island.

Bag and Possession Limit:  D13 One buck, forked horn or better per tag.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

D13 zone  is 9%,

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D13 zone is 13%.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for D13 zone is 10%.

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D13 zone is 5.5%, with an estimated 52 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown.

D13 Zone Boundary:  In those portions of Kern, Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties within a line beginning at the intersection of Highways 99 and 166 at Mettler; south on Highway 99 and Interstate 5 to Highway 126; west on Highway 126 to the crossing of Sespe Creek; north and then west along Sespe Creek to Highway 33; north on Highway 33 to Highway 166; north and east on Highway 166 to the point of beginning. Special Conditions: Hunters that possess a D13 deer tag may also hunt in zones D11 and D15.

Shooting Hours: Hunting and shooting hours for big game, including but not limited to deer, antelope, elk, bear, and wild pig shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

PUBLIC LAND

(562) 342-7145.

CDF California Dept. of Forestry  You can check on current fire conditions here. Stop in and talk to the fireman/firewomen since they live and work in the forests.

ACCESS

MAPS

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS Weather early in the season is mild to hot with cold nights. Snow can occur anytime during the deer season and hunters should always be prepared for this possibility.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

CAMPING

Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER?

Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include:

FIELD REPORTS

After some real searching, I finally spoke to a wildlife biologist for both the D11 and D13 areas and was told that the D13 will likely be a much better choice this year. According to herd counts this past spring, D13 had a lot more bucks and better ones at that. I was told that south of Lockwood Valley Road is generally wetter and, therefore, provides better habitat. Frazier mountain has produced some good bucks in the past and it's anticipated that it will again this year. Also, Alamo Mountain and Pine Mountain are supposed to be quite productive. Hope this helps. Regards, Paul

There have been some jumbo bucks taken out of D13 the last few years. The general deer population is still down somewhat, making hunting tough. So what else is new. You might try Balinger Canyon. This is an off-highway vehicle area so the roads are rough, but a lot of bucks are taken out of here each year. Apache Canyon has deer. You might scout the areas leading from the forest lands to the alfalfa fields along the Cuyama River. The slope from Pine Mountain down to the Sespe River. Scout along the trail and hike out the ridges into promising habitat. Steelshot

I hunted D13 for the last 2 years and it's tough, but  it has a lot of public access which in turn means a lot of hunters, mostly, during general gun season, I hunt with a bow and see a lot of deer during the archery only period, but after the first morning of general season the deer high tail it to No Man's Land. Find the water holes and acorn/pine nuts in the same vicinity and you'll find deer. Good areas in D13 for me were Pine Mtn., Lockwood Valley between hwy. 33 and I-5, Hungry Valley before Gorman (Hwy. 5), Mt. Pinos, and Frazier Mtn. Mike.

HUNTING SUPPLIES

BEST EATS

CHEAPEST GAS

GOOD MOTELS

GUIDES

MUST SEE SIGHTS

MEAT PROCESSING/BUTCHERS

Burbank Meat Locker .... Burbank, Ca. Ph # (323)-849-1058.
Green Acres Market ....  2918 Los Angeles Ave. Simi Valley, Ca. 93065. ph# (805) 526-1312. Hours: 10 - 7 Mon. -Sun.  Costs: $.50 per lb. sausage $1.25 lb. You must have tag and animal skinned to process here. Elk, deer, and hogs.
Harmony Farms .... 2824 Foothill Blvd. La Crescenta, CA 91214. PH# 818 248-3069. Fax# 818 248-0361. They seem to be reasonably priced. They do not smoke hams or make sausage links, only ground. I ask for the trimmings and hams and take them to Schriners in La Crescenta. Schriners is a German Meat Market that does excellent sausages in a variety of ways. - Matt D.
Hick's Meat Market .... 1553 S. La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638.
Pomona Food Locker .... 240 S. Oak, Pomona, Ca. ph# 909 629-9649  $59.00 for butchering of average deer. $10.00 to skin. $1.00 per lb. extra for pork added to sausage.  $.59 per lb. for larger deer. Hours: 8:30 to 5:30 M-F, 8:30 to 3:00 Sat. Closed Sunday.

TAXIDERMISTS

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

HUNTERS ACCOMMODATED BY USFS -- Jim Matthews column 23jul03

USFS tries to accommodate deer hunters

The San Bernardino National Forest, after a near-complete fire closure last year that eliminated deer hunting on this block of public land, is tentatively planning to make some special accommodations for deer hunters this year, according to Gene Zimmerman, SBNF forest supervisor.

"It's clearly our intent that hunting be an exception on this," said Zimmerman. He said that during a series of public meetings, virtually all the different user groups agreed that fire restrictions most affected hunters. "To a person, they all said that you really ought to try to make special provisions for hunters, and our staff seemed very receptive to this. We may get shot at by some other users, but we're going to give it a try."

Zimmerman said all of the other users in their meetings recognized that they could use the forest at other times or live within the guidelines, but that hunters really had no other options because hunting seasons are set by the state Department of Fish and Game and only run during a brief period each fall. The nature of hunting also means that hunters can't stay near developed recreational sites.

The San Bernardino National Forest is finalizing a six-step fire danger alert system that corresponds with the Smoky the Bear signs that you see as you enter the forest alerting users to the fire danger. We've all seen the signs:

Fire Danger Today Is HIGH

In the past, what that meant was a little amorphous. How was "high" different from "very high"? What did "moderate" mean?

There are now criteria spelled out for each level of fire danger, telling users exactly what each level means and how its triggered. There are also increasing restrictions as the fire danger increases -- all clearly spelled out.

Only at the "Critical" level will the forest be completely closed -- the highest level that is called only in extreme circumstances (usually when a fire is ongoing). The only access under this category is for people traveling through the forest on designated state and county highways. It will only be at this level that Zimmerman said he expects hunter access to be denied completely.

At all other five levels, hunting will likely be accommodated under the forest orders that restrict access, including the "Extreme" level (level five) that was in place for much of the late summer and fall last year when hunters were locked out.

Zimmerman said the final plan was not complete yet because comments were still coming in that the staff was "puttering with it," but "I think it's going to be workable."

This is great news for deer hunters who have been reluctant to purchase D14 and D19 deer tags, the two deer zones which have the bulk of their huntable lands in the San Bernardino National Forest. Sales of all Southern California deer zones are well below last year's level as hunters wait to hear about fire closures.

Hunters should encourage the managers of the Angeles and Cleveland national forests (D11, D15 and D16 zones) to adopt similar plans so those zones are not closed a second year. The San Bernardino National Forest use guidelines should be available at USFS offices before the end of August, well before the start of October deer seasons in this region.

I'm sending off for my D14 tag today.

I think it would be appropriate for at least a few of us to give San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor Gene Zimmerman a phone call (909-382-2605) to say "thanks" for trying to do something for hunters. These guys hear a lot from us -- me especially -- when they screw up, but not nearly so often when they try to do the right thing.

Due to the extreme drought in the San Bernardino National Forest the forest was closed to recreational use on 10/7/02. DFG has said they will refund deer tags if less then 9 days are left in rifle season when the forest reopens. You options are to hunt private land or BLM if available. You can also switch zone tags for $6.25 for a tag in an unfilled zone. There were some D13 tags available but it will be crowded. Check daily with the NF in your hunt area on closures because the NF is not know for spreading any info to hunters in a timely manner. Info can be found below at the links or in the JHO Muley Forum.

San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor's Office  1824 South Commercenter Circle, San Bernardino, CA 92408-3430. (909) 383-5588. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F.

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.

Season: 

D14 Rifle is Oct 12 - Nov 10, 2002.

D14 Bow is Sept 7 - Sept 29, 2002.

J11 Junior is Nov 16 - Nov 24, 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D14 Rifle has 3,000 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out 9/25/02. 2001 had 3,000 tags and the tags did not sell out in 2000. 3,000  D14 tags were sold in 1999 and the tags sold out 10/21/99.

J11 Junior has 40 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out in the Premium Tag Draw in 2001. 2001 had 40 tags and 40 were issued in the June 11, 2000 Premium Tag Drawing.

Bag and Possession Limit:  D14 One buck, forked horn or better per tag. Forked-Horn Buck Defined. For the purpose of these regulations a forked-horn buck is defined as a male deer having a branched antler on either side with the branch.

J11 Junior either sex - 1 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.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  

D14 is 7%.

J11 Junior  is 30%.

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:   The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D14 zone  is 10%. The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for J11 zone  is 18%.

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:   The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D14 zone  is 7.4%, with an estimated 222 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for J11 zone  is 32.5%, with an estimated 13 deer harvested.

D14 Zone Boundary:  In those portions of Riverside and San Bernardino counties within a line beginning at the junction of Interstates 10 and 15E; northwest on Interstates 15E and 15 through Cajon Pass to Bear Valley Cutoff Road; east on Bear Valley Cutoff Road to Highway 18; east along Highway 18 to Highway 247; southeast on Highway 247 to Highway 62; southwest on Highway 62 to Interstate 10; west on Interstate 10 to the point of beginning.

J11 Zone Boundary:  J11 zone is the same as the D14 zone above.

Shooting Hours: Hunting and shooting hours for big game, including but not limited to deer, antelope, elk, bear, and wild pig shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

PUBLIC LAND

BLM Palm Springs Office  Palm Springs South Coast Field Office, 690 Garnet Ave, P.O. Box 1260, Palm Springs, CA 92258. Field Manager - James Kenna. Phone (760)251-4800. Fax( 760)251-4899

San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor's Office  1824 South Commercenter Circle, San Bernardino, CA 92408-3430. (909) 383-5588. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F.

San Bernardino National Forest - Arrowhead Ranger District.  P. O. Box 7, 28014 Highway 18, Skyforest, Ca. 92378.  (909) 337-2444. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F

San Bernardino National Forest - Big Bear Ranger District.  P. O. Box 290, North Shore Drive Highway 38, Fawnskin Ca. 92333. (909) 866-3437. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F

San Bernardino National Forest - Cajon Ranger District.  P. O. Box 100, 1209 Lytle Creek Rd. Fontana, Ca. 92336-9704. (909) 887-2576. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F

San Bernardino National Forest - San Gorgonio Ranger District, Mill Creek Ranger Station. 34701 Mill Creek Rd., Mentone, Ca. 92359. (909) 794-1123. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F

CDF California Dept. of Forestry  You can check on current fire conditions here. Stop in and talk to the fireman/firewomen since they live and work in the forests.

ACCESS

Good public access off Interstate 15 to the west, and state highway 18 which runs right down the middle of the zone east to west, 330 from the south, 38 to the east, 138 from the northeast,  and 173 from the north.

Mission Creek access is through the Wildlands Conservancy at 39611 Oak Glen Rd. Yucaipa, Ca. 92399. PH# 909-797-8507.

MAPS

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

For a shooting map that shows the shotgun and bow only areas of San Bernardino County please contact the San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor's Office  1824 South Commercenter Circle, San Bernardino, CA 92408-3430. (909) 383-5588. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F.

Guess what I found after cleaning up all the piles of paper in my office. My lost San Bernardino Co. shooting map. This map shows where it is legal to hunt with rifle, shotgun and night time hunting for varmints. I scanned it up and you can download the maps for future reference if you want since S.B no longer sells this map. From what I know, this map is still current but you can check with the local sheriff office to make sure. I've drawn in some crude boundaries for the National Parks and military land but you should use a topo map or GPS to be sure where you are. Each little grid square on these maps is a section on your topo map and all the sections are marked with Township, Range and Section info.

These maps files are big, about 200k to 300k so they may take time to load if you're on a dial up modem. If the map doesn't load all the way, hit the refresh button on your browser.

To save the maps to your computer using Internet Explorer, right click on the map after it downloads, and click save "Save pic as" and then pick a folder or location to save the map on your puter.

Lake Arrowhead and Crestline Area

Devore and Lytle Creek Area

Big Bear and Running Springs Area

Southwest S.B. County Overview

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS

Weather early in the season is mild to hot with cold nights. Snow can occur anytime during the deer season and hunters should always be prepared for this possibility.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

San Gorgonio Wilderness Association .... Lost of good info, a bulletin board, links and pics here.

CAMPING

There are several USFS campgrounds within the hunt zone and these are shown on USFS maps. Informal camping is allowed on USFS lands, but campfire permits are required. Permits may be obtained from any USFS, U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or California Department of Forestry (CDF) office. During fire season, special regulations may apply and it is best to contact the local USFS, BLM or CDF office for the latest information.

Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER?

Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include: A lot of the good hunting areas have burned in the Willow Fire and cannot be accessed  yet. Try the Pinnacles north of Lake Arrowhead, Staircase Canyon NE of Seven Oaks. If you're into backpack/horseback hunting you can hike into the Whitewater River/Mission Creek drainage or up the north side of San Gorgonio to the 10,000 Foot Ridge. The Tarn area east of San Gorgonio Mtn. Cleghorn Mtn. east of Lake Silverwood has decent access. Mill Creek trail east of Forest Falls. Go up as often as you can and glass the open areas for deer.

HUNTING SUPPLIES

Turner's Outdoorsman In San Bernardino.

BEST EATS

The Oaks in Angelus Oaks. Cedar Glen Inn at Cedar Glen.

CHEAPEST GAS

Redlands, 2 blocks north of I-10 on Orange St. on the east side (right).

GOOD MOTELS

GUIDES/OUTFITTERS

San Gorgonio Wilderness Outfitters - Terry Anderson. Fully guided hunts on 7200 acres of private land. D14 PLM program. Desert bighorn, deer and bear. P.O. Box 294, Morongo Valley, Ca. 92256. PH# (760) 363-6892.
Jimmy Rizzo for deer, turkey, bear, coyotes, bobcat and gray fox at PH# 714 903-1996, after 5pm. Licensed and bonded, good hunter and has the area wired.

MUST SEE SIGHTS

Big Bear Lake and Museum

MEAT PROCESSING/BUTCHERS

Dick & Sheri .... 63536 Aberdeen Rd. Joshua Tree, Ca. PH# (760) 366-3391 $50.00 last year and the year before, extra for sausage.
Leon's Meats .... Mission Blvd., Mira Loma, Ca.
Pomona Food Locker .... 240 S. Oak, Pomona, Ca. ph# 909 629-9649  $59.00 for butchering of average deer. $10.00 to skin. $1.00 per lb. extra for pork added to sausage.  $.59 per lb. for larger deer. Hours: 8:30 to 5:30 M-F, 8:30 to 3:00 Sat. Closed Sunday.

TAXIDERMISTS

Herman's Taxidermy .... 14201 California Av., Beaumont, Ca., Ph# (909) 845-6035.
Oscar's Taxidermy.... Specializing in big game mounts. You can see some of Oscar's work in the Wal-mart in Redlands and the Sportmart in San Bernardino. Calimesa Ca. Ph# (909) 795-2866
Wilderness Taxidermy ... Tony, 12138 Humboldt Place, Chino, Ca. 91710, Ph# (909) 902-9355.

GUN RANGES

Inland Fish and Game Conservation Association - 8207 North Orange St., Highland, CA. 92346. Ph# (909) 793-4014
Lytle Creek Firing Line - Lytle Creek, CA. Range is now open to the public for $5 per day. There are currently ranges from 50 to 300 yards. Full trap and skeet facilities and a 600-yard range will be available soon. The range is open Thursday through Monday each week. For information, call (909) 782-7438. The word is on this range that the benches are wooden and on a slope, no overhead shade, and you have to buy your targets. Doesn't sound good.

FIELD REPORTS

11/29/1999 - 13 year old Jack Fuller Jr. of Lake Arrowhead scored a nice buck on the last day of the season (Nov. 29th, 1999), in D-14, hunting the junior hunt. Jack Sr. said they had been seeing lots of does, but held out for a buck in the Lake Arrowhead area. This was Jack Jr.'s third deer, so he's pretty much a veteran now. His Dad said he barely gets 'Buck Fever' anymore.

10/28/98 - A dispute between two private landowners in the Mission Creek area in the eastern edge of the San Bernardino Mountains has led to increased public access into a region that has been largely closed off in the past. The Wildlands Conservancy (TWC), a large landowner of property within the San Bernardino National Forest and Bureau of Land Management in the Mission Creek area, is annoyed that the Big Morongo Springs Ranch, owned by Steve Mescaro, has been approved for a Private Lands Management (PLM) hunting program. The PLM license will allow them to have a handful of deer and bear permits that can be used after the regular season for the area is closed. The tags are allocated in return for wildlife habitat improvements on the ranch, which include spring development and removal of cattle. So The Wildlands Conservancy is opening up public access through a closed gate at the lower end of Mission Creek. While I'm not sure I agree with their motives for doing this, it does represent a great opportunity for hunters and other outdoor buffs to gain access to public lands in the Mission Creek drainage. Hopefully, TWC will also open up access to other public lands in Pipes Canyon that it currently blocks. To get more information and the combination to the lock on the Mission Creek gate, call TWC at (909) 797-8507. Dave Myers, the Executive Director, is the contact at TWC.

Enrique Rivera of San Bernardino got a big surprise a couple of weeks ago deer hunting near Littlerock above State Highway 138 in the D-14 zone. After shooting a forkhorn and rolling it over to dress out, he found the deer had a different set of plumbing than a buck usually has. Turns out he shot an antlered doe. Quite rare around these parts, as even the people at the ranger station where he checked it in said they had never seen one.

10/14/98 - A nice heavy 3 x 2 and another decent buck reported off of the 10,000 ft. ridge near Mount San Gorgonio. Lots of does being seen with a few forkies thrown in. A heavy 4 x 4 taken in D-11, but no word on where.

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

Due to the extreme drought in the Cleveland National Forest the forest was closed to recreational use on 10/9/02. DFG has said they will refund deer tags if less then 9 days are left in rifle season when the forest reopens. You options are to hunt private land or BLM if available. You can also switch zone tags for $6.25 for a tag in an unfilled zone. There were some D13 tags available but it will be crowded. Check daily with the NF in your hunt area on closures because the NF is not know for spreading any info to hunters in a timely manner. Info can be found below at the links or in the JHO Muley Forum.

Cleveland National Forest Supervisor's Office  10845 Rancho Bernardo Rd., Suite 200, San Diego, CA - 92127. (619) 673-6180, Fax - (619) 673-6192. Email: mailroom/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us   California Relay Service, (800) 735-2929 (TTY), (800) 735-2922 (voice). Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday

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.

Season:

D15 Rifle is Oct 12 - Nov 10, 2002.

D15 Bow is Sept 7 - Sept 29, 2002.

G10 is Oct 5 - Dec 10, 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D15 zone  has 1,500 tags and D15 tags did not sell out in 2000. 790  out of 1,500 D15 tags were sold in 1999. Tag good for D11, D13 and D15, but not Camp Pendleton or Santa Catalina Island.

G10 has 480 tags (380 military and 100 general public) for 2002 and the tags filled in the Premium Tag Draw. 2001 had 480 tags (380 military and 100 general public) and the tags were filled in the June 11, 2000 Premium Tag Drawing.

Bag and Possession Limit: 

D15 - One buck, forked horn or better per tag. Forked-Horn Buck Defined. For the purpose of these regulations a forked-horn buck is defined as a male deer having a branched antler on either side with the branch. 

G10  - 1 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.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

D15 zone  is 6%.

G10 was canceled in 2001 due to the 9/11 attacks.

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D15 zone  is 11%. G10 2000 estimated hunter success rate was 22 %.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for D15 zone  is 11%. G10 1999 estimated hunter success rate was 25 %.

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:   The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D15 zone  is 9.6%, with an estimated 76 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for G10 zone  is 22.1%, with an estimated 106 deer harvested.

D15 Zone Boundary:   In those portions of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties within a line beginning at the Pacific Ocean and Interstate 10 in Santa Monica; east on Interstate 10 to Highway 79 at Beaumont; south on Highway 79 to Hemet; south on County Road R-3 through Sage to Highway 79; west on Highway 79 to Interstate 15; south on Interstate 15 to Highway 76; west on Highway 76 to the Pacific Ocean; north along the shoreline to the point of beginning. Special Conditions:  Hunters that possess a D15 deer tag may also hunt in zones D13 and D11 except for Camp Pendleton.

for 2002, Catalina Island is included on a D15 tag. The island is private property and written permission is required to hunt there.

G10 Zone Boundary:  G10 zone is that portion of San Diego County lying within the exterior boundaries of the U.S. Marine Corps Base, Camp Joseph Pendleton. Archery only for first 35 days. firearms weekends only. You must be 16 years or older and pass a test  given by the Camp Game Manager. Access fee required. Contact Camp Pendleton Game Manager at (760) 725-3360 for more info.

Shooting Hours: Hunting and shooting hours for big game, including but not limited to deer, antelope, elk, bear, and wild pig shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

PUBLIC LAND

BLM Palm Springs Office  Palm Springs South Coast Field Office, 690 Garnet Ave., P.O. Box 1260, Palm Springs, CA 92258. Field Manager - James Kenna. Phone (760)251-4800. Fax( 760)251-4899

Cleveland National Forest Supervisor's Office  10845 Rancho Bernardo Rd., Suite 200, San Diego, CA - 92127. (619) 673-6180, Fax - (619) 673-6192. Email: mailroom/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us   California Relay Service, (800) 735-2929 (TTY), (800) 735-2922 (voice). Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday

Cleveland National Forest  Trabuco Ranger District  1147 East Sixth Street, Corona, CA 91719. (909) 736-1811. Fax - 736-3002. Email: mailtrd/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us  Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday

Cleveland National Forest Palomar Ranger District  1634 Black Canyon Rd., Ramona, CA 92065. (760) 788-0250. Fax - 788-6130. email: mailprd/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us  Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday.

Cleveland National Forest Descanso Ranger District  3348 Alpine Boulevard, Alpine, CA 91901. (619) 445-6235, Fax - 445-1753. email: maildrd/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us  Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday

CDF California Dept. of Forestry  You can check on current fire conditions here. Stop in and talk to the fireman/firewomen since they live and work in the forests.

ACCESS

MAPS  

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 We have this on our webpage here  Jesse's Hunting & Outdoors . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS Weather early in the season is mild to hot with cold nights. Snow can occur anytime during the deer season and hunters should always be prepared for this possibility.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

CAMPING

There are several USFS campgrounds within the hunt zone and these are shown on USFS maps. Informal camping is allowed on USFS lands, but campfire permits are required. Permits may be obtained from any USFS, U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or California Department of Forestry (CDF) office. During fire season, special regulations may apply and it is best to contact the local USFS, BLM or CDF office for the latest information.

Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER? 

Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include:  SaddleBack Mountain,

FIELD REPORTS

6/24/02 I have hunted CP over the last three years. 9/11 put a 'temporary' close on those activities. Call the base game office often to keep abreast of the access. The base commander is retiring and a new one will be sworn into position next month. Before deer season, there will be a hunter orientation. You will be able to ask specific question to the base game warden. They also, usually, post a map on the wall - in the office, with the deer take locations and sex. The larger deer are up in the hills, but many are down in the coastal range. If the hunting program is reinstated, you will be allowed to scout any base area that is open on the day of your visit. This is a really enjoyable activity. Lots to see. - Marty

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

HUNTING SUPPLIES

BEST EATS

CHEAPEST GAS

GOOD MOTELS

GUIDES

MUST SEE SIGHTS

MEAT PROCESSING/BUTCHERS

Burbank Meat Locker .... Burbank, Ca. Ph # (323)-849-1058.
Green Acres Market ....  2918 Los Angeles Ave. Simi Valley, Ca. 93065. ph# (805) 526-1312. Hours: 10 - 7 Mon. -Sun.  Costs: $.50 per lb. sausage $1.25 lb. You must have tag and animal skinned to process here. Elk, deer, and hogs.
Harmony Farms .... 2824 Foothill Blvd. La Crescenta, CA 91214. PH# 818 248-3069. Fax# 818 248-0361. They seem to be reasonably priced. They do not smoke hams or make sausage links, only ground. I ask for the trimmings and hams and take them to Schriners in La Crescenta. Schriners is a German Meat Market that does excellent sausages in a variety of ways. - Matt D.
Hick's Meat Market .... 1553 S. La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638.
Pomona Food Locker .... 240 S. Oak, Pomona, Ca. ph# 909 629-9649  $59.00 for butchering of average deer. $10.00 to skin. $1.00 per lb. extra for pork added to sausage.  $.59 per lb. for larger deer. Hours: 8:30 to 5:30 M-F, 8:30 to 3:00 Sat. Closed Sunday.

TAXIDERMISTS

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.

Season:

D16 Rifle is Oct 26 - Nov 24, 2002.

D16 Bow is Sept 7 - Sept 29, 2002.

A22 Bow is split season of Sept 7 - Oct 20, 2002 and Dec 7 - Dec 31, 2002.

The A22 2nd season close date is changed for 2002 according to DFG in order to complete harvest and population data analysis by mid January as required.

G13 is Oct 26 - Nov 10, 2002.

M6 Muzzleloader is Dec 21 - Dec 31, 2002. The season was moved up two weeks for 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D16 rifle has 3,000 tags for 2002 and the tags did not sell out in 2001. 2001 had 3,000 tags, the same amount as in 1999 and the D16 tags did not sell out in 2000.

A22 bow has 1,000 tags for 2002 and the tags did not sell out in 2001. 2001 had 1,000, the same as in 1999 and did not sell out in 2000. A22  had 1,000 tags and 840 were issued in 1999.

M6 Muzzleloader has 80 tags for 2002 and the tags filled in the Premium Tag Draw in 2001. 2001 had 80 tags and the tags were filled in the Premium Tag Drawing.

G13 has 300 tags for 2002 and the tags filled in the Premium Tag Draw in 2001. 2001 had 300 tags and the tags sold out in the premium tag draw. G13 has 300 and the tags were filled in the Premium Tag Drawing. 2,797  D16 tags were sold in 1999.

Bag and Possession Limit: 

D16 One buck, forked horn or better per tag. Forked-Horn Buck Defined. A forked-horn buck is defined as a male deer having a branched antler on either side with the branch. 

A22 and M6 -  1 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.

G13 -1 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.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: 

D16 zone  is 8%,

G13 was 13%.

A22 was 3%.

M6 was canceled in 2001.

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D16 zone  is 12%, G13 was 27%, A22 was 3% and M6 was 0%.

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for D16 zone  is 10%, G13 was 22%, A22 was 4% and M6 was 0%.

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D16 zone  is 8.5%, with an estimated 239 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for A22 zone  is 4.6%, with an estimated 39 deer harvested. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for G13 zone  is 18.7%, with an estimated 56 deer harvested. The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for M6 zone  is 21.3%, with an estimated 17 deer harvested.

D16, A22. G13 and M6 Zone Boundary: Those portions of Riverside, Imperial and San Diego counties within the line beginning at the Pacific Ocean and Highway 76; east on Highway 76 to Interstate 15; north on Interstate 15 to Highway 79; east on Highway 79 to the San Diego-Riverside county line; east along the San Diego-Riverside county line to the Anza-Borrego State Park boundary; south along the Anza-Borrego State Park boundary to Highway 78; east on Highway 78 to Highway 111; south on Highway 111 to the U.S.-Mexican border; west along the U.S.-Mexican border to the Pacific Ocean; north along the shoreline to the point of beginning.

A22 Zone Boundary: For the hunt year 2000, the A22 boundary is the same as D16. The following is the old boundary. All of San Diego County, excluding the U.S. Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton.

G13  Zone Boundary: For the hunt year 2000, the G13 boundary is the same as D16. The following is the old boundary. All of San Diego County excluding that portion lying west of the line described as follows: Beginning at the San Diego-Riverside county line; south along Highway 395 to the San Luis Rey River; southwest along the San Luis Rey River to the Pacific Ocean.

Shooting Hours: Hunting and shooting hours for big game, including but not limited to deer, antelope, elk, bear, and wild pig shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

PUBLIC LAND

BLM Palm Springs Office  Palm Springs South Coast Field Office, 690 Garnet Ave, P.O. Box 1260, Palm Springs, CA 92258. Field Manager - James Kenna. Phone (760)251-4800. Fax( 760)251-4899

Cleveland National Forest Supervisor's Office  10845 Rancho Bernardo Rd., Suite 200, San Diego, CA - 92127. (619) 673-6180, Fax - (619) 673-6192. Email: mailroom/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us   California Relay Service, (800) 735-2929 (TTY), (800) 735-2922 (voice). Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday.

Cleveland National Forest Palomar Ranger District  1634 Black Canyon Rd., Ramona, CA 92065. (760) 788-0250. Fax - 788-6130
email: mailprd/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us  Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday.

Cleveland National Forest Descanso Ranger District  3348 Alpine Boulevard, Alpine, CA 91901. (619) 445-6235, Fax - 445-1753. Email: maildrd/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us  Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday

CDF California Dept. of Forestry  You can check on current fire conditions here. Stop in and talk to the fireman/firewomen since they live and work in the forests.

ACCESS

MAPS  

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS

Weather early in the season is mild to hot with cold nights. Snow can occur anytime during the deer season and hunters should always be prepared for this possibility.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

CAMPING

There are several USFS campgrounds within the hunt zone and these are shown on USFS maps. Informal camping is allowed on USFS lands, but campfire permits are required. Permits may be obtained from any USFS, U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or California Department of Forestry (CDF) office. During fire season, special regulations may apply and it is best to contact the local USFS, BLM or CDF office for the latest information.

Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER? 

Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include:  Palomar Mountain, west side of Henshaw Lake, Mount Laguna.

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.

Season:

D17 Rifle is Oct 12 - Nov 3, 2002.

D17 Bow is Sept 7 - Sept 29, 2002.

Tag Availability:  D17 zone has 500 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out 8/16/01 for last year's hunt. 2001 had 500 tags available and the tags sold out 9/25/00 in 2000. In 1999 there were 500 tags and the tag quota was reached 9/28/99. 1998 had 10,400 tags. 8,847 tags were sold in 1998.

Bag and Possession Limit: 

D17 One buck, forked horn or better per tag. Forked-Horn Buck Defined. A forked-horn buck is defined as a male deer having a branched antler on either side with the branch. 

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: D3 zone  is 20%

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: D3 zone  is 20%

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: D3 zone  is 12%

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest: The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D3 zone  is 9.8%, with an estimated 867 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is 27:100. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is 13,300.

D17 Zone Boundary: Those portions of Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties within a line beginning at Highway 395 and the Kern-Inyo county line; east along the Kern-Inyo county line to the San Bernardino-Inyo county line; east along the San Bernardino-Inyo county line to Highway 127; north along Highway 127 to the California-Nevada state line; south along the California-Nevada state line to the California-Arizona state line; south along the California-Arizona state line to Interstate 40; Interstate 40 north to Needles; Highway 95 south to Highway 62; west on Highway 62 to Highway 247; northwest on Highway 247 to Highway 18; west on Highway 18 to Bear Valley Cutoff Road; west on Bear Valley Cutoff Road to Interstate 15; north on Interstate 15 to Highway 18; west on Highways 18 and 138 to Highway 14; north on Highways 14 and 395 to the point of beginning.

PUBLIC LAND

This hunt zone is very large – the largest in land area in the state -- but deer are known to occur only in that portion of the zone situated within eastern San Bernardino County. Almost the entire area where deer can be found in D-17 was designated by Congress in 1994 as the Mojave National Preserve, administered by the National Park Service, 222 E. Main St., Barstow CA 92311 (760) 255-8800. Except that the northern portions of the Clark Mountains and the Kingston Range are administered by the BLM Barstow Field Office  2601 Barstow Road, Barstow, CA 92311. (760) 252-6000 / FAX(760) 252-6099. Tim Read, Field Manager Public land constitutes most of the hunt area with the exception of a few, small private property in-holdings within the Mojave National Preserve, which are typically posted if landowners object to hunting.

Zone D-17 encompasses a large geographic area, and hunters are advised to assure gasoline tanks are full before entering back country. Terrain can be sandy and flat, to steep and rocky. As is the case in every instance for all remote area travel, hunters should take along a shovel, serviceable spare tire, and lots of extra food and water. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are not required within D-17 hunting areas, but in the case one enters sand or a steep road and gets stuck, a considerable walk can be avoided. Be sure to use extra caution when driving off-road, and check with NPS or BLM regarding vehicle travel restrictions that may be in place. Note that only street-legal licensed vehicles are allowed within the Mojave National Preserve; green-sticker vehicles are not permitted. While horses can improve hunter success within some D-17 locations, it must be remembered that water is in short supply throughout the desert. Check with NPS and BLM for information regarding area livestock forage conditions.

Mojave National Preserve  Mojave National Preserve Headquarters, 222 E. Main St., Suite 202, Barstow, CA 92311. (760) 255-8801 Mojave National Preserve Baker Information Center, 72157 Baker Blvd./ P.O. Box 241, Baker, CA 92309, (760) 733-4040. E-mail MOJA_Baker_Interp@nps.gov Mojave National Preserve Needles Information Center , 707 W. Broadway, Needles, CA 92363, (760) 326-6322. E-mail: MOJA Needles Interp@nps.gov Hole-in-the-Wall Ranger Station  (760) 928-2572

ACCESS

Primary approach to D-17 hunt areas is via Interstate Highway 15 and 40 from Barstow. Secondary access roads leading from those freeways are Kilbaker, Cima, Nipton to Ivanpah roads, Essex, Goeffs to Landfair Road, Excelsior Mine and Yates Well Road. Many county, National Park Service, BLM and other dirt roads, including Black Mountain, Wildhorse Canyon, Cedar Canyon and Green Wells roads, provide final access to hunting areas. With passage of the 1994 Desert Protection Act, some existing roads were and are closed to accommodate wilderness area designation as demanded by the new law. Although some access availability is hampered by the act, admittance generally remains fair to good at most locations. Hunters need to be aware of safety closure zones established surrounding two NPS campgrounds. Routes ranging from paved 2 lane highways to rugged 4-wheel tracks are abundant. Especially popular is the historic Mojave Road. Please watch for desert tortoise when traveling on roads in the Preserve, particularly when it is raining. Travel only on roads in street legal vehicles. Wilderness areas are open to access by non-mechanized means, i.e. on foot or by pack animal. Please respect the rights of private property within the Preserve.

MAPS

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- the price is about $4.00, per map.

U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from stores that sell drafting and backpacking supplies. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

Mojave National Preserve Maps

For those who like a map in hand, try the Mojave National Preserve, National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map. It gives detailed information on topography, wilderness areas, hiking trails, and roads. It is also made of plastic, so it will not rip the first time you pull it out in the wind. Also available is the Tom Harrison, Recreation Map of the Mojave National Preserve. All these products are available in the Mojave Desert Information Centers.

Recently, products have been introduced that put all this information onto a CD-ROM. Wildflower's TOPO! Interactive Maps on CD-ROM covers all three of California's desert parks - Death Valley, Joshua Tree and Mojave.

 U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps can usually be obtained from drafting/engineering stores or backpacking stores.

Guess what I found after cleaning up all the piles of paper in my office. My lost San Bernardino Co. shooting map. These maps show where it is legal to hunt with rifle, bow, shotgun and at night for varmints. I scanned it up and you can download the maps for future reference if you want since S.B no longer sells this map. From what I know, this map is still current but you can check with the local sheriff office to make sure. I've drawn in some crude boundaries for the National Parks and military land but you should use a topo map or GPS to be sure where you are. Each little grid square on these maps is a section on your topo map and all the sections are marked with Township, Range and Section info.

These maps files are big, about 200k to 300k so they may take time to load if you're on a dial up modem. If the map doesn't load all the way, hit the refresh button on your browser.

To save the maps to your computer using Internet Explorer, right click on the map after it downloads, and click save "Save pic as" and then pick a folder or location to save the map on your puter.

Southwest S.B. County Overview

Southeast S.B. County Overview

Northwest S.B. County Overview

Northeast S.B. County Overview

WEATHER CONDITIONS

Warm days and cool nights is the norm during the D-17 hunt season. Hot days is always a possibility, however, and wind conditions can change quickly. Hunters are advise to dress in layered clothing, and always be prepared for possible desert showers. The Mojave is a hot desert. Days with temperatures in excess of 100 degrees typically begin in May and can last into October, and within the Mojave National Preserve temperatures reach 120 degrees. Winters, however, can bring freezing temperatures. The most pleasant temperatures are in Spring and Fall.

CAMPING

There is no entrance fee. Camping in the developed campgrounds at Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid-Hills is $10 per site per night fee. ($5 for Golden Age or Golden Access Passport Holders). Group campground reservations are made by calling (760)-733-4040. Group site fees are $20 per night per site. Sites at these campgrounds are available on a first come - first served basis. Primitive roadside camping is permitted in areas that have been traditionally used for this purpose. Mid Hills is located at a higher elevation, within pinyon and juniper trees, than lower-desert Hole-In-The-Wall. There is a small campground at the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area. Camping outside designated camping areas is permitted in BLM and NPS areas, so long as the site has been previously used as a camping area. Firewood is scarce throughout the D-17 desert, so hunters must pack along campfire material; and note that firewood collecting is prohibited within the Mojave National Preserve. Camping adjacent to springs or other water sources is not allowed. Such precious spots provide important watering sites for wildlife, and human presence within 200 yards of a wildlife water source for more than 30 minutes is a violation of Fish and Game laws. There are no overnight motel accommodations available in the Preserve. Surrounding towns do have some lodging options. Small stores with limited foodstuffs are located in Cima and Nipton. Plan to obtain supplies before arriving at the Preserve. Groceries and supplies can be obtained in larger surrounding towns including Needles, Baker, Barstow, and Las Vegas. No backcountry permits are needed.

WHERE ARE THE DEER?

For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer. Zone D-17 hunt areas are wide open and deer can be spotted from long distances. Binoculars are a must, and a tripod mounted spotting scope can be an asset in certain locations. Transplanted from Modoc County in 1948, D-17 animals are Rocky Mountain mule deer that can be found throughout mountainous areas from 4,000 to 8,000 feet elevation, but are not typically concentrated in any particular location. Hunters should scout within this elevation range near the top of the Clark and Kingston Mountains. D-17 deer forage and vegetation preferences vary as well, and deer can be found from desert wash to pinyon and juniper tree habitat. The single most common factor regarding where to find deer, is the nearby presence of bitterbrush. D-17 hunters will harvest from 30 to 50 bucks during a typical hunt season. Order of deer-take locations, from highest to lowest, is: Mid Hills, New York Mountains, Providence Mountains, Clark Mountains; and Mescal, Cima, Dome, Castle, Kingston Range and Granite Mountains. Note that most successful hunters scout long and hard prior to the season opener to locate the whereabouts of small deer concentrations.

FIELD REPORTS

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

HUNTERS ACCOMMODATED BY USFS -- Jim Matthews column 23jul03

USFS tries to accommodate deer hunters

The San Bernardino National Forest, after a near-complete fire closure last year that eliminated deer hunting on this block of public land, is tentatively planning to make some special accommodations for deer hunters this year, according to Gene Zimmerman, SBNF forest supervisor.

"It's clearly our intent that hunting be an exception on this," said Zimmerman. He said that during a series of public meetings, virtually all the different user groups agreed that fire restrictions most affected hunters. "To a person, they all said that you really ought to try to make special provisions for hunters, and our staff seemed very receptive to this. We may get shot at by some other users, but we're going to give it a try."

Zimmerman said all of the other users in their meetings recognized that they could use the forest at other times or live within the guidelines, but that hunters really had no other options because hunting seasons are set by the state Department of Fish and Game and only run during a brief period each fall. The nature of hunting also means that hunters can't stay near developed recreational sites.

The San Bernardino National Forest is finalizing a six-step fire danger alert system that corresponds with the Smoky the Bear signs that you see as you enter the forest alerting users to the fire danger. We've all seen the signs:

Fire Danger Today Is HIGH

In the past, what that meant was a little amorphous. How was "high" different from "very high"? What did "moderate" mean?

There are now criteria spelled out for each level of fire danger, telling users exactly what each level means and how its triggered. There are also increasing restrictions as the fire danger increases -- all clearly spelled out.

Only at the "Critical" level will the forest be completely closed -- the highest level that is called only in extreme circumstances (usually when a fire is ongoing). The only access under this category is for people traveling through the forest on designated state and county highways. It will only be at this level that Zimmerman said he expects hunter access to be denied completely.

At all other five levels, hunting will likely be accommodated under the forest orders that restrict access, including the "Extreme" level (level five) that was in place for much of the late summer and fall last year when hunters were locked out.

Zimmerman said the final plan was not complete yet because comments were still coming in that the staff was "puttering with it," but "I think it's going to be workable."

This is great news for deer hunters who have been reluctant to purchase D14 and D19 deer tags, the two deer zones which have the bulk of their huntable lands in the San Bernardino National Forest. Sales of all Southern California deer zones are well below last year's level as hunters wait to hear about fire closures.

Hunters should encourage the managers of the Angeles and Cleveland national forests (D11, D15 and D16 zones) to adopt similar plans so those zones are not closed a second year. The San Bernardino National Forest use guidelines should be available at USFS offices before the end of August, well before the start of October deer seasons in this region.

I'm sending off for my D14 tag today.

I think it would be appropriate for at least a few of us to give San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor Gene Zimmerman a phone call (909-382-2605) to say "thanks" for trying to do something for hunters. These guys hear a lot from us -- me especially -- when they screw up, but not nearly so often when they try to do the right thing.

Due to the extreme drought in the San Bernardino and Cleveland National Forest many parts of forest was closed to recreational use on 10/3/02. DFG has said they will refund deer tags if less then 9 days are left in rifle season when the forest reopens. You options are to hunt private land or BLM if available. You can also switch zone tags for $6.25 for a tag in an unfilled zone. There were some D13 tags available but it will be crowded. Check daily with the NF in your hunt area on closures because the NF is not know for spreading any info to hunters in a timely manner. Info can be found below at the links or in the JHP Muley Forum.

Cleveland National Forest Supervisor's Office  10845 Rancho Bernardo Rd., Suite 200, San Diego, CA - 92127. (619) 673-6180, Fax - (619) 673-6192. Email: mailroom/r5_cleveland@fs.fed.us   California Relay Service, (800) 735-2929 (TTY), (800) 735-2922 (voice). Office Hours 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday.

San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor's Office  1824 South Commercenter Circle, San Bernardino, CA 92408-3430. (909) 383-5588. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F.

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.

Season: 

D19 Rifle is Oct 6- Nov 4, 2002.

D19 Bow is Sept 1- Sept 23, 2002.

J14 Junior is Nov 16 - Nov 24, 2002.

Tag Availability: 

D19 zone has 1,500 tags for 2002 and the tags did not sell out in 2001. 2001 had 1,500  tags.  In 1999 there were 1,500 tags and 1,072  D19 tags were issued for 1999.

J14 Junior has 30 tags for 2002 and the tags sold out in the Premium Draw in 2001. 2001 had 30 tags and sold out 6/11/00 in the premium tag draw. J14 was a new hunt for 2000.

Bag and Possession Limit: 

D19 - One buck, forked horn or better per tag.

J14, 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.

Estimated 2001 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  

D19 zone  is 8%.

J14 zone  is 23%

Estimated 2000 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for D19 zone  is 9%. The 2000 estimated hunter success rate for J14 zone  is 23%

Estimated 1999 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  The 1999 estimated hunter success rate for D19 zone  is 7%

Estimated 1998 Hunter Success and Deer Harvest:  The 1998 estimated hunter success rate for D19 zone  is 6.7%, with an estimated 72 deer harvested. Buck/Doe ratio is unknown. Estimated deer population based on a 3 year average is unknown.

D19 Zone Boundary:  Those portions of Imperial, Riverside and San Diego counties within a line beginning at the junction of Interstate 10 and Highway 79; south on Highway 79 to Hemet; south on County Road R-3 to Highway 79; south on Highway 79 to the Riverside-San Diego county line; east on the Riverside-San Diego county line to the Anza-Borrego State Park boundary; south on the Anza-Borrego State Park boundary to Highway 78; east on Highway 78 to Highway 111; north on Highway 111 to the junction of Interstate 10 in Indio; west on Interstate 10 to the point of beginning.

PUBLIC LAND

BLM Palm Springs Office  Palm Springs South Coast Field Office, 690 Garnet Ave, P.O. Box 1260, Palm Springs, CA 92258. Field Manager - James Kenna. Phone (760)251-4800. Fax( 760)251-4899

CDF California Dept. of Forestry  You can check on current fire conditions here. Stop in and talk to the fireman/firewomen since they live and work in the forests.

San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor's Office  1824 South Commercenter Circle, San Bernardino, CA 92408-3430. (909) 383-5588. Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm M-F.

San Bernardino National Forest - San Jacinto Ranger District  P. O. Box 518, 54270 Pinecrest, Idyllwild, Ca. 92349. (909) 659-2117.

909-627-1613.

ACCESS

MAPS  

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) maps may be obtained by visiting or calling one of the offices listed above -- 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. Other kinds of maps may be obtained from sporting goods suppliers 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 webpage here  Jesse's Hunting Page . Also you can check Topozone and Terraserver for online topo maps and aerial photos.

WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS

Weather early in the season is mild to hot with cold nights. Snow can occur anytime during the deer season and hunters should always be prepared for this possibility.

Caltrans Road Conditions

The Weather Channel

CAMPING

There are several USFS campgrounds within the hunt zone and these are shown on USFS maps. Informal camping is allowed on USFS lands, but campfire permits are required. Permits may be obtained from any USFS, U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or California Department of Forestry (CDF) office. During fire season, special regulations may apply and it is best to contact the local USFS, BLM or CDF office for the latest information.

Please do not camp at springs or watering holes. They can be critically important to wildlife. Remaining at such water sources can be a violation of Fish and Game laws.

WHERE ARE THE DEER? 

Hunters should move away from areas of human and vehicle traffic and look for well-used deer trails. Binoculars are very helpful for locating and identifying deer. For safety purposes, do not use your rifle scope to look for deer.

No one location is guaranteed to have deer on any given date from year to year. However, some places where deer generally occur include: Black Mountain, Rouse Ridge, burn area near Poppet Flat.

FIELD REPORTS

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