Black Tailed Deer: Where and How To Hunt Them

The thrill of hunting these ghost-like creatures takes you to some stunning locations and has a kind of allure and mysticism – that's what makes hunting these deer such a special pursuit. 

Hunting this mule-deer subspecies requires more than just patience and adaptability. It demands a thorough understanding of its natural environment, which the deer uses to evade and camouflage easily. This knowledge is critical to a successful hunt. 

Are you after these mysterious creatures this season? If so, keep reading as we examine the environmental factors and hunting strategies required for a successful blacktail hunt. 

Where Are the Black Tailed Deer?

Although a subspecies of mule deer, blacktails inhabit a relatively unique environment across the Pacific Northwest, requiring a shift in approach and preparation strategy.

Here are some critical insights into black-tailed habitat and distribution. 

• Distribution: Blacktails are commonly found in California, Western Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and Alaska.
   
• Environment and habitat: Blacktails thrive in wet temperate forest environments, especially at the edges of forests and meadows, where they can navigate with cover and feed. They can also be found at shorelines and in brush zones, appearing only for a second before seamlessly vanishing into the vegetation. 
   
• Seasonal movements: Black-tailed deer exhibit fewer seasonal movement patterns than mule deer. However, they will move to higher elevations during the summer and lower during the cooler months to avoid snow and the cool. 

Planning a hunt for these deer can take you to some beautiful locations for an unforgettable experience!

Seasons and Regulations 

Although black tail hunters are limited geographically to four U.S. states, licensing and tagging are relatively straightforward. 

• Hunting seasons: Blacktail hunting generally occurs during the typical deer hunting months of August, September, and October, and tags are easy to get. These months are general, and it's always a smart idea to check local regulations as some states, such as Washington, have slight variations in their season dates for particular species. 
   
• Licensing and tags: For licensing and tags, head to the relevant wildlife authority for your intended state. There is some variation in the administration of blacktail hunting. For example, California requires hunters to purchase a specific tag based on a quota system, whereas hunters heading to Washington need only a general deer license. 
   
• Bag limits: Like all species, black-tailed deer are subject to bag limits due to population control and wildlife management concerns. When targeting blacktails, research your hunting tag's legal restrictions and limitations. 

Good research pays off when you're able to bring home one of these deer after a successful (and legal) hunt.

Hunting Techniques and Strategies 

While these strategies may shift depending on your location and the time of year, they're proven strategies that will help you get one step closer to filling your blacktail tag. 

Spot and Stalk

This strategy is best for hunting in California and Alaska, where there is a higher chance of spotting a blacktail in an open meadow or mixed-timber zone.

First, establish deer signs such as tracks and markings to spot and stalk a blacktail. From there, gain some elevation to establish your vantage point and leverage optics until you spot a deer and verify its presence.

The next step is all about patience as you devise a plan, make an approach, and move carefully so as not to get winded. Hopefully, you'll have an undisturbed blacktail and a clear shot; if not, don't worry. It's important not to rush it and remember that the deer may stay in the zone for a couple more days. 

Still Hunting

In denser zones where spotting blacktails is like playing an ecological version of "Where's Waldo," still hunting will be your best bet.

This ancient strategy involves moving slowly through the environment using natural covering to spot a deer before it spots you. In these densely wooded areas, work close to trails where deer are most likely to be, and remember that deer are moving for two reasons: feeding or mating.

Focus on the edges of feeding zones and get out there at high-impact times, such as dusk and dawn. 

Stand Hunting

Stand hunting works in your favor as an ambush-style hunting strategy against a notoriously elusive deer. Setting up a tree stand along deer trails in high-movement areas makes you more likely to come across a blacktail, especially if it's a passageway between bedding and feeding zones. 

Scouting

Sometimes, you can't beat some serious time behind the lenses or with your favorite hunting app (ahem . . . HuntWise) for some scouting.

In the case of blacktails, pre-season scouting to understand movements and a familiarity with the natural environment is essential, especially if you're a first-timer. Being able to spot a blacktail against the dense woodland is the name of the game!

Pack the Right Gear

While packing a kit for a blacktail hunt will depend somewhat on your desired locations, there are always a few essentials you can't go without. 

• Firearms and bows: This should be obvious, but make sure you pack a rifle with the appropriate caliber and a bow you're comfortable with and can shoot accurately. Anything from a .243 to .280 is an excellent option, with a .30-06 a popular choice. Be sure to check local regulations regarding bow weight limitations, legality of crossbows, and more. 
   
• Optics: Good binoculars and a scope can be invaluable when familiarizing yourself with the terrain and spotting these hard-to-spot creatures.
   
• Clothing: Opt for camouflaged, scent-free gear and a quality pair of waterproof boots if you are hunting in temperate zones. 
   
• Hunting accessories: Head out into the field with a quality dressing knife, some calls and lures, and safety equipment such as a first aid kit. 
   
• GPS mapping: Knowing your location in dense forest environments is invaluable. The HuntWise GPS feature allows you to explore and stay on target without getting lost in the wilderness.

For blacktails, we recommend using the topographical feature to explore ridgelines that create natural passageways into canyons and valleys that blacktails are most likely to follow. By doing this, you're building a map of blacktail movement, creating a higher chance of success or spotting one of these elusive creatures. 

Best Black-Tail Deer Hunting Locations

Ready to get out and hunt? Here's a quick rundown of where you're most likely to find black tailed deer.

California

The coastal ranges and Sierra Nevada foothills will be your best bet when hunting in the Golden State. Once you've entered these areas, these oaky mountainous zones will be challenging, so target water sources, natural food, and potential bedding locations. 

Oregon and Washington

Many people think of the lush forests and open public lands of Oregon and Washington when they consider the black-tailed deer habitat.

These highly vegetated areas, containing a higher concentration of deer, also provide the perfect escape for a risk-averse blacktail to slip into the shrubland easily–so keep your eyes open. 

Alaska and British Columbia

For a once-in-a-lifetime hunting experience, the Southeast pocket of Alaska is the place to go.

Deer can be taken anywhere from the shoreline to the woods, so prepare for a change in the environment and elevation. Hunting in British Columbia is very similar to the Alaskan experience. 

Bring Home a Blacktail Deer With HuntWise This Season 

While research, reading, and sharing information are all fantastic starting points when hunting black tailed deer, there's no substitute for spending time in the environment you plan to hunt.

With HuntWise, you can start scouting from home using the mapping and topographical features in the app. By e-scouting, you'll come to understand the habitat and geography of blacktail deer, giving you a much-needed edge on these challenging deer – and other hunters also trying to tag one this season. 

If you don't have the app, now is the time to download it! We'll give you access to every feature in the app – free – for one week.