Blacktail Deer Hunting Guides and Outfitters

Known for their elusive nature, sharp instincts, and the rugged landscapes they inhabit, blacktail deer hunting demands patience, skill, and perseverance. Blacktail deer (Odocoileus hemionus) are a subspecies of mule deer, with two primary types: the Columbian blacktail and the Sitka blacktail. These deer are found along the Pacific Coast in the temperate rainforests of California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and British Columbia. Their ability to blend into thick foliage and their wariness of predators make them one of the most challenging deer species to hunt.

Blacktail bucks are smaller than mule deer and whitetail deer, with mature bucks typically weighing between 120 to 200 pounds. Their antlers are also more compact, but their unique characteristics and the effort required to hunt them make a blacktail trophy highly coveted.

Blacktail Deer Hunts

We work with only the best Blacktail deer hunting outfitters.

Alaska Sitka Blacktail Hunting Trips

Oregon Blacktail Hunting Trips

California Blacktail Hunting Trips

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• A big, typical Columbia blacktail will have a spread in excess of 24 inches, brow tines, lots of mass, starting at the bases and moving up through the main beams, four points per side, each four to five inches long.
• A proper Sitka blacktail will have the same basic structure, but shorter points, and often only three per side. An average mature buck will score in the low to mid 80’s, and are typically unsymmetrical with broken tines. Bucks over 100 inches are VERY RARE. Keep that perspective in mind and you’ll have a ton of fun.
• Use our mule deer field judging guide for more detailed information on judging blacktail deer.

Blacktail Deer HUNTING

Best Locations for Blacktail Deer Hunting

If you’re looking to hunt blacktail deer, it’s essential to understand their habitat and migration patterns. Here are some of the prime regions for blacktail deer hunting:

• Oregon: Home to one of the largest populations of Columbian blacktail deer, Oregon offers hunters access to diverse terrain, from coastal forests to rugged mountains. The state’s public lands and well-regulated blacktail deer hunting seasons provide excellent opportunities for both rifle and archery hunts.
• Washington: With vast public lands and dense conifer forests, Washington is another hotspot for blacktail deer hunting. The state’s varied terrain and hunting seasons provide a range of opportunities for hunters of all experience levels.
• California: Northern California’s coastal regions are prime territory for blacktail deer. Steep ridges, thick underbrush, and foggy mornings create the perfect challenge for California blacktail hunters looking to test their skills.
• Alaska: The Sitka blacktail deer is native to Alaska and can be hunted on remote islands and coastal areas. Alaska’s hunting experience is one of the most rugged and remote, requiring hunters to navigate harsh weather conditions and unpredictable terrain.

When is the Best Time to Hunt Blacktail Deer?

Blacktail deer hunting seasons vary slightly by state and location. Hunters targeting the rut (the breeding season) often have the most success, as bucks become more active and less cautious. Early-season hunts are also productive, especially for archers, as deer are still following predictable feeding and bedding patterns.

Key Hunting Periods:

• Pre-Rut (Late Summer to Early Fall): Bucks are more focused on feeding to prepare for the rut, making them slightly more predictable in their movements.
• Rut (Mid-Fall): Bucks are actively searching for does, making them more vulnerable to hunters. This is the prime hunting period for many blacktail hunters.
• Post-Rut (Late Fall to Early Winter): Bucks return to more cautious behavior but can still be found if you’re patient and persistent.

Hunting Techniques for Blacktail Deer

Due to their reclusive behavior, blacktail deer require specific hunting strategies. Here are some effective techniques to consider:

1. Spot and Stalk: This technique involves spotting deer from a distance and slowly stalking them. Patience, stealth, and a keen eye for movement are essential for success.
2. Still Hunting: Slowly and quietly moving through dense timber is one of the most effective ways to locate blacktail deer, especially in areas with heavy undergrowth.
3. Tree Stand or Ground Blind: Placing a stand near well-used trails, feeding areas, or rutting zones can lead to close encounters with bucks.
4. Calling and Rattling: During the rut, bucks are more likely to respond to calls imitating other bucks or estrous does. Rattling can also be effective for drawing in territorial bucks.

Blacktail Deer Hunting Gallery

Here are a few Outdoors International clients from blacktail hunts over the years.

Bourdeaux Group

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-SAC, United States

Jude Bourdeaux

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-SAC, United States

Noah Martin

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-SAC, United States

Kyle Kremposky

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-DWL, United States

Umemoto Group

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Umemoto Group

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Charles Umemoto

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Brian Thomas

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Thomas Group

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Jesse Neveau

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Kyle Hanson

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Kyle Hanson

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Patrick Kissel

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-DWL, United States

Joel Kissel

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-DWL, United States

Andy and Patrick Kissel

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-DWL, United States

AJ Kissel

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-DWL, United States

Gary Colbath

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Jason Baldwin

Alaska, Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Outfitter #OI-RE, United States

Chris Matson

Blacktail Deer, Hunting, North America, Oregon, United States

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