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This report outlines 1 of 5 guided hunts I have done at Miller Ranch over the years. I feel that this is one of the best (if not the best) operations for archery blacktail deer hunts going. The ranch proprietor Richard Eriksen specializes in archery hunts for blacktail deer during the rut, which occurs in late-October through early December (limited dates in July for semi-guided hunts may also be available). The ranch is located in Mendocino County, CA which is one of the top producing counties for P&Y-quality bucks in the country. Miller Ranch has been managed as archery-only for over 10 years. During this time, Richard has guided hunters to over 100 blacktails, the majority of which would exceed the P&Y minimum of 90". The hunts run 5 days, and although they are typically conducted on a 1x1 basis, 2x1 hunts may be arranged.

Miller Ranch is enrolled in the Private Lands Management program, which allows the property owner flexibility with their season dates in exchange for completing habitat improvement projects each year. This allows Richard to schedule his season during the rut, long after the archery and rifle seasons have closed.

During 2006, we hunted long and hard for a buck over 100" P&Y. Although we saw a number of bucks of that caliber through the hunt (and a number in the mid-90's bucks that we passed), it was not until day 5 that it all came together and I was able to connect on a great forked horn. Over the years, I have taken 3 other buck on his rut hunts that ranged from 93" - 112".

Hunters stay in a rustic cabin with wood stove, bunks, sofa/chair and dining table. Hunters are responsible for bringing their own food and doing their own cooking, but the cabin has a propane stove, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, sink and all the appropriate utensils. The cabin has an outhouse, a shower and a skinning shed available to the hunters (skinning and trophy care is included). Transportation too and from the ranch is the responsibility of the hunter. The ranch is located approximately 3 hours from the Sacramento, Oakland and San Francisco airports for those who would fly.

The hunts are conducted primarily by driving the ranch and glassing traditional rutting areas. The objective is to locate and monitor doe herds and see which bucks may be hanging around. The primary means of hunting is spot and stalk, although tree stands and ground blinds can be effective as well. Due to his knowledge of the animal habits and the lay of the land, Richard typically stays with the hunter through the duration of the stalk. At first I thought that this would be a problem, but he has proven to me time and time again that this system maximizes the potential for success. Although stalks tend to be fairly short, the country is very steep so being in good shape is a big plus. Temperatures typically run from the high 20's to the mid-50's. It rains frequently in November (and precipitation really intensifies the rut), so quality rain gear is a must.

The hunt cost is roughly $2,500. There are no trophy fees for deer. Hunters are required to have a CA hunting license ($129.40) and a deer tag ($219.20). CA deer tags are OTC, so no draw is necessary. The ranch has good populations of wild boar and rio grande turkey which can be included (seasons permitting). Boar is open year round ($59.60 tag needed) and turkey season runs for approximately two weeks in November leading up to Thanksgiving. For turkey, an upland game stamp is required ($10?). Trophy fees apply for boar or turkey.

The two things that I have been most impressed by on my hunts at Miller Ranch are Richard's intimate knowledge of deer habits and his drive to ensure his client's success.

Richard does not have a web site or e-mail, but can be reached at 707-984-6092.