{"product_id":"2018-gmu-72-colorado-big-game-elkmule-deer-hunting-map-publicprivate-lands-spirited-republic-map","title":"2018 GMU 72 Colorado Big Game (Elk\/Mule Deer) Hunting Map (Public\/Private Lands)","description":"GMU 72 Hunting Map is the top-of-the-line map with the most reliable quality and updated (2018) GMU statistics found on the market.   Comprised of detailed contours and hillshade with geographic names, public lands, animal locations (Elk\/Mule Deer) and movements, roads, water bodies, and many other terrain and location markers.  This map indicates public lands symbology, to know whether you're in public or private land, when linked with your device's GPS technology.  Mark locations with pins or trails to know where you've been and where you are heading.  A must have reference map for the experienced hunter, and a necessity for those just getting into the sport.  The only map on the market providing the previous years hunting statistic.                This area covers a 2,800-square-mile landscape from the west side of the Uncompahgre Plateau to the Utah state line and south to the New Mexico border. Habitat throughout these GMUs is favorable for big game. With altitudes from about 5,000 feet to more than 12,000 feet, the vegetation ranges from desert shrubs and pinon\/juniper to alpine tundra. Weather can change quickly so be prepared for all conditions. There is good vehicle access in these areas; consequently, hunting pressure is heavy on public lands. An exception is the Lizard Head Wilderness Area, GMU 71, which is accessible by foot and horseback only. Most of unit 72 and the western sections of 70 and 711 is desert terrain and not productive for elk. Be aware of private land in the northern sections of GMUs 71 and 711, and in the southern section of GMU 70. The southern half of units 72 and 73 is tribal land. Hunting by non-tribal members is prohibited. Hunting is also prohibited at Mesa Verde National Park. The deer population in all of the GMUs has stabilized after several years of decline. In the northern units, the buck-to-do ratio is high so more buck licenses were allotted for 2015. But in the southern units, the ratio is dropping so no new licenses were added. In the early seasons, deer are evenly distributed, mostly above 8,000 feet. Deer begin migrating to lower elevations, generally from east to west, in mid-October. Snow will cause them to move to lower elevations earlier. Deer concentrate on winter ranges in Dry Creek Basin, Disappointment Valley and along the rim of the Dolores River canyon. GMU 70 in Dry Creek Basin is recommended in the third and fourth seasons. Elk Hunting The elk population is holding steady and herds are at objective levels. Animals are distributed widely throughout the eastern portion of these units. Generally, GMU 71 is better early in the season, but will hold elk on south-facing slopes during the later seasons. GMU 711 becomes better as the season progresses. Elk will move quickly into thick aspen, evergreens and rugged terrain with hunting pressure. Hunt the edges of timbered areas slowly at first light and at sundown when elk are most active. The opportunity to see a mature bull is only fair. There are many young bulls in this unit, so be careful not to shoot a spike. Hunt away from roads and OHV trails for the best chance of success.","brand":"Spirited Republic","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":36413775806620,"sku":"848753","price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0441\/7850\/5884\/files\/20181009045042_SpiritedRepublic_CO_BigGame_ElkPublicLand_72_preview_0.jpg?v=1723119798","url":"https:\/\/store.avenza.com\/products\/2018-gmu-72-colorado-big-game-elkmule-deer-hunting-map-publicprivate-lands-spirited-republic-map","provider":"Avenza Maps","version":"1.0","type":"link"}