Unit 3D1 is dominated by sandstone buttes, creeks, ponds, sloughs, ridges, and livestock pastures. While it lies within North Dakota’s secondary mule deer range, the northwest corner of the unit is just a few miles from the primary range. The rugged, often sparse landscape makes this area a prime location for mule deer, particularly along the western edge of the unit. Don’t overlook the northwest corner, where you’ll find a section of the Little Missouri National Grassland, which can offer additional hunting opportunities.

Unit 3A3 is a sizable area with diverse terrain, much of which is private land. While there are over 400 acres of State Trust Lands and PLOTS that hold deer, gaining access to private property will likely offer the best hunting opportunities. The southwest and western parts of the unit, stretching from Kenmare to Minot, offer prime conditions for deer, with easy water access, tree cover, and high-quality croplands. These areas could be your best bet, particularly if you're aiming for a trophy buck.

Unit 3D2 offers excellent terrain for both whitetail and mule deer. The ridges and buttes in the northwest section provide ideal habitat for mule deer, and with the state's primary mule deer range just a few miles away, this area is a top choice if you've drawn a mule deer tag. The northern part of the unit, particularly the northwest corner, is rugged, with numerous small draws and few marked roads, creating a challenging but rewarding hunting environment. The best hunting opportunities exist if you can gain access to private land near creeks and ridges.

Unit 4B features rugged terrain across most of the area. The northern part is filled with coulees and draws covered in buckbrush, while the central and southeastern sections are marked by steep, rugged draws and creek bottoms. These draws often contain dense groves of deciduous trees. There are numerous secluded areas where mule deer can hide. The Little Missouri River forms the eastern boundary of the unit, while the Montana state line marks the western edge. If you can find a strategic spot near Theodore Roosevelt National Park and wait patiently, you might have the chance to bag a B&C trophy.

Unit 4C is one of the top units in North Dakota for mule deer hunting, offering plenty of public access and prime mule deer habitat, including badlands and creek bottoms. The eastern edge of the unit along Highway 85 is mostly private land, while the northern and western borders are defined by the Little Missouri River. The majority of the unit consists of Little Missouri National Grassland, providing thousands of acres of public land for hunting. To make the most of your hunt, take time to study maps, identify potential spots, and scout those areas ahead of the season. With abundant food, water, steep ridges, and deep canyons, this unit offers some of the best mule deer terrain in the state.

Most of this unit falls within North Dakota’s secondary mule deer range. The Missouri River flows from west to east through the area, eventually feeding into Lake Sakakawea at the unit’s eastern boundary. The terrain here is often rugged and steep, offering a challenging hunt for those willing to cover the distance on foot. Notably, large mule deer bucks have been spotted and harvested south of the Missouri River within this unit.

If you’re fortunate enough to draw a tag for unit 4A, you’ll find excellent opportunities for mule deer. While they are spread throughout the unit, the majority of the herds are concentrated in the Little Missouri River valley and the Little Missouri National Grassland. The area is marked by deep, narrow canyons and creek bottoms, which are densely forested. If you can find a prime spot near Theodore Roosevelt National Park and wait patiently for a deer to move from the park onto nearby huntable land, you may be in for a shot at a potential B&C trophy.