9 replies to this topic

[dogslayer1313]

i am looking for either paper maps or downloadable maps of the Tahoe national forest that show sources of water. I have bought the forest service maps for the area but it doesn't show any water other than the major rivers/creeks. I have the Delorme topo program for the western states but it doesn't show water. I have spent hours looking online and the maps I have found of the area I currently hunt doesn't show the water hole in the area I currently hunt but they show two water sources that don't exist. I confirmed they don't exist after two long unnecessary hiking trips. I think my next step will be going to an outdoor sports store like REI to see what they have available. If anyone could point me in the right direction it would be much appreciated.

[Frank]

Trying to find water sources on anything, can sometimes be inconsistant at best. At least for me (& could be quite telling in itself. LOL) Also, there are many seeps and springs that are here today and gone tomorrow. So would be a physical impossibility for all water sources to show up at all times.

Anyway, while Google is obviously one excellent source, I do not have as much luck with it as many folks seem to. I am sure it is the nut behind the wheel (me), but some water sources on Google is just plain hard to tell / see that it is indeed water, & thus can be guess work.

The most reliable map, again, for me, are the old 7.5 minute paper topo maps. But they are expensive and do not cover a large area. However, I have found some real dandy, out of the way, water sources & hunting areas with these maps & a gps. For deer & quail mostly, with some of these areas being good for predators also of course.

Good Luck

[ShooterJohn]

It's illegal to hunt over a watering hole. You can't occupy the area for more than 30 minutes without breaking the law. Look in the regulations.

§730. Camping Near or Occupying Wildlife Watering Places.

[Frank]

Yep, very true, ShooterJohn, and good reminder... although I didn't get that intent out of his or my post.

[ShooterJohn]

I know Frank, I just wanted to throw it out there that you have to be aware of it.

[Frank]

[Bisley]

Also, there are many seeps and springs that are here today and gone tomorrow. So would be a physical impossibility for all water sources to show up at all times.

You are 200% right on with that one. My favorite little 6" wide creek only runs in the winter time, but holds a million birds when it does. You would never know it in the summer though if it weren't for the greenery. Which is why getting out and eyeballing is still about the best way to find anything. A big patch of green in the midst of standard chaparral is a dead give away. So put on the hiking boots and start pumping the fuel if you want the only 100% method of finding water,

[SLOWMAN]

forest service topo maps are about as close as you come to finding anything now a days. they definitely have everything mapped out for you.

[GSH]

Try Tom Harrison Maps, he may have one of your area. They are waterproof and tear resistant plastic.

[Rob P.]

Try: www.caltopo.com

They have several types of USGS topo maps, forest service maps, visitor maps and other things for maps. You can print the maps yourself.

Most of the topo maps have springs annotated on them. You will have to do the footwork to see if there is a spring there or not but that's the case for any map.