I moved to SD from Texas 9 years ago and I learned a few things from my hunting buddies/coworkers.
1. Start collecting preference points in AZ and other western states. I put in for AZ, CO, WY, ID, and MT for various species including elk, mule deer, goat, and sheep. Some states you can buy points only (CO, WY), and other states you earn points if you are not drawn.
2. You can not earn preference points in ID, but they have the best odds to draw a mt goat tag. MT has the best big horn sheep hunting and least expensive tags.
3.There are actually companies that help you (for a price) complete the application process. For a few years I used Cabelas Tags to learn more about the system, but now I do it on my own.
4. Archery hunting will provide you with many more hunting opportunities (in and out of CA).
5. AZ has an over the county archery tags for mule deer or coues deer. It is good for the entire deer season (sept-jan) and does not use up preference points you earn. The hunting tags are also good for the calendar year. I purchase my lisence and tag in January 2012 and hunt coues deer or mule deer during january and feb. If I'm not successful, I can still use that tag in september 2012...and still collect preference points! This is a loop hole in thier system. Good areas to hunt are national forest land in the south and southwest section of AZ for coues deer. They are found at the higher elevations and there are usually enough trees for a tree stand.
4. Apply or get preference points for CA deer, elk, and antelope hunts. I usually put in for the Goodale hunt, then after the draw purchase a archery only tag.
5. There are lots of bear hunting opportunities in CA.
6. Take advantage of the good trail systems most of the national forest in CA have. If you are willing to hump it, you can get in some good backcountry hunting areas for bear and deer in the Sierra's.
I'll stop there for now before I give away my secret spots!
good luck.
