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Shed hunting or looking for dropped antlers from big game is a growing outdoor activity in Utah. But late winter and early spring can be the worst time of the year for elk, moose and especially deer.
Deep snow and cold temperatures make it hard for deer to move, find food and can sap an animals energy and another thing to remember is that most habitat this time of year is wet and can be easily damaged. Riding an ATV off road can damage critical winter habitat that may take years to recover.
In Utah you can legally shed hunt all year, but between February 1st thru April 15h, shed hunters are required to complete a free DWR antler gathering ethics course. The course provides you with some do's and don'ts and once completed, you must have it in possesion while you are shed hunting. For more information on shed hunting or the ethics course, log onto the dwr's website at wildlife.utah.gov.
