Hunters are grappling with confusion around California's preference point system and non-resident tag allocations, particularly in Zone 7 - White Mountains. It is suggested that 2019 had a preference point maximum of 17, a point of clarification for those uncertain about the limits. Additionally, hunters noted that California does not allocate a separate quota for non-resident tags, leading some to question the value of applying if non-resident success is perceived to be limited. Hunters are encouraged to thoroughly understand the regulations and consider the potential investment in preference points when planning their applications for this area.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Desert Bighorn Sheep | 145"-160" | 165"+ |
High
Low
Zone 7 is located in the White Mountains on the east side of Highway 6 between Bishop and Benton. This zone has some of the most challenging terrain of all the zones in California when it comes to Desert Bighorn Sheep.
The physicality of this zone has played a factor in the past for harvest success. The sheep populations is doing well. This is a horseback or backpack style hunt.
The terrain in this zone is like no other desert sheep hunts in the state. The high elevations of the White Mountains fall off into steep long canyons. The middle elevations are steep canyon country that adds to difficulty of hunting sheep in this country.
Highway 168 (Westgard Pass Road), which intersects Highway 395 at Big Pine, provides access into upper elevations of the White Mountains by way of the Bristlecone Pine Forest National Scenic Byway. The Westgard Pass Road also links with Highway 266 (Highway 3A), which provides access to the eastern flank of the White Mountains.
Most services are located within the various towns scattered along the base of the Sierra Nevada escarpment, including Olancha, Lone Pine, Independence, Bishop, and Benton. Hunters are advised to have full gasoline tanks when entering the field and to carry snow chains, shovel, serviceable spare tire, and extra food and water.
The White Mountains are dry, but the upper slopes from 9,200 to 11,500 ft hold open subalpine forests of Great Basin bristlecone pine on permeable dolomite and certain granite substrates and limber pine on less permeable rocky substrates. Middle slopes from 6,500 to 8,200 ft have somewhat denser stands of piñon pine and Utah juniper. These upper and lower conifer zones are often separated by a zone of mountain mahogany brush. Various subspecies of sagebrush extend from surrounding valleys to the lower alpine zone.
The area has a wide variety of camping options. The majority of the camping in the sheep zone will be remote and primitive. Horseback or backpack style camps will be the norm.
For areas where dispersed camping is allowed, you need to obtain a California Campfire Permit for the use of any open flame (including gas stoves, lanterns, wood fires, charcoal fires, or smoking). These permits can be obtained at no cost from any Inyo National Forest Ranger Station and BLM office. Open flame of any kind may be restricted during times of high fire danger.
Roughly 473 square miles
96% public land
Elevations range from 4,500-14,000 feet