Hi everyone. this forum and website is great, I already gained tons of knowledge by reading through it. I have done CORE and already have my PAL, and do have a 30.06 rifle. I'm very interested in deer hunting in BC, close to lower mainland, within 3-4hr drive hopefully. Me and my brother already tried somewhere close to Harrison lake this October, around Bear Creek, but didn't find any deer (or any other animal!). We spent 2 days and walked a lot, but talking to locals, they told us that most of animals moved from that area after fire smoke this summer.

I would appreciate any help or guidance as where to go to maximize the chance of seeing some black-tail/mule deer; event better if we can tag along with someone for our second hunting trip. I totally understand that hunting trip doesn't always end with hunting the game, and totally enjoy the trip itself as well, but having some experience on how to maximize the chance of hunting the game would worth a lot for me.

Thanks in advance.