Colorado Mule Deer Hunting · Sept 1 – Nov 29

Some of the Best Bucks Alive

Colorado is known for some of the finest mule deer hunting in the world — and Smith Rancho sits in the heart of it. Average bucks run 160–170 class, with trophy 185–190 deer taken in recent years.

Trophy mule deer buck taken at Smith Rancho

160–170Average buck class

185–190Trophy class taken

192Class buck (2004)

90Hunting days

ZeroApplications needed

The Hunt

World-class mule deer country

Colorado is known for some of the best mule deer hunting in the world, and Northwest Colorado is the center of it. Smith Rancho's 62,000 private acres of sagebrush canyons, draws, and rolling hills hold the kind of mature bucks most hunters only dream about.

Our average buck is around 160–170 class, with several trophy 185–190 class bucks taken in the past few years. In 2004, a 192-class buck was taken right here on the ranch.

Because we're part of Big Gulch Ranching for Wildlife, your deer license is guaranteed — no draw, no application, no waiting. With a 90-day season, you can time your hunt for exactly the conditions you want.

192

Class buck, 2004

Early Season · Sept 1 – Oct

Velvet & early bucks

The early season offers a chance at bucks still in or just out of velvet, patterned and feeding in the open before pressure moves them. Our guides know where the mature deer hold and how to get you into position for a clean shot.

This is classic spot-and-stalk mule deer hunting across big, open country — the kind of hunt that rewards good glass and patience.

Late Season · Oct – Nov 29

The rut arrives

As the season turns toward November, the rut brings the biggest bucks out of hiding. Deer that stayed in the timber all fall start moving and chasing — and that's when the trophy 185+ class bucks show themselves.

Late-season mule deer hunting on Smith Rancho is where many of our biggest deer have come from. Cold weather, moving bucks, and 62,000 private acres to hunt them on.

Fully Outfitted

Everything's handled

Lodging

Comfortable accommodations at the ranch headquarters. You arrive the evening before your hunt begins — no long drives to camp each morning.

All Meals

Home-cooked meals throughout your stay. We keep hunters well-fed and fueled for long days in the field.

Guaranteed License

Your license comes through the Ranching for Wildlife program. No draw, no application, no waiting — it's guaranteed.

Expert Guiding

Two hunters per guide. Every guide is intimately familiar with the ranch and its game.

Transportation

Travel to and from the hunting areas is provided. No need to navigate 62,000 acres on your own.

Game Care

Proper field dressing and care of your animal after the harvest, so your meat and cape make it home in top condition.

Season Overview

Your hunting window

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Open Season

Rut (peak November)

Hunt Details

What to expect

SeasonSept 1 – Nov 29

Hunt Length3 days (arrive evening prior)

Average Buck160–170 class

Trophy Class185–190, up to 192 taken

Camp Size5–6 hunters maximum

Guide Ratio2 hunters per guide

TerrainSagebrush canyons, draws & rolling hills

Combo HuntsDeer / Elk & Deer / Antelope

Ready to book your mule deer hunt?

Trophy bucks and limited spots — they book fast. Call Brad directly to check availability and reserve your dates.

602.369.3522