I usually dont reply to these type of threads or get into specifics...but, just this once.
I hunted 26 last year on a leftover tag I bought. I got to the unit the day before the opener and looked over nearly all the accessible public lands there. The walkin areas were getting lots of pressure and a ton of hunters. Every single piece of legally accessible public lands I looked at had some antelope on them, some a lot more than others. The antelope there, including those I looked at on private, are of average size for the most part. From what I saw, I'd seriously consider shooting any buck you see that scores 72+. I probably saw a dozen bucks that were between 72 to maybe 75 at the top end. Not much length on any of them, and a 14 inch buck wasnt easy to find. There are some with good mass, good prongs, good horn shapes. Very nice antelope, in particular for a first timer.
I went back to the buck I liked best after a full day of driving around looking and made sure he was there right at dark. The next morning I got there plenty early and waited for enough light to relocate them. I found them, did my stalk, and as the sun was just peaking over the horizon, I shot.
You'll have fun, but I'd expect company, although I didnt see anyone else hunting the section I killed my buck on.
I'd also not set unrealistic expectations, as the unit is not easy hunting as there isnt much public. I think expecting to shoot an average buck antelope isnt unrealistic, but expecting to find a 16 inch buck there, let alone finding one on public, is stretching. Finding them is half the battle, getting them killed is an entirely different thing.
I'd also have a GPS with ownership information and good maps.
Good luck and I hope you have a great hunt.
