2005 Fall Hunting Forecast
Date: September 09, 2005
Contact: Call 800-720-6339 (ODFW) or 503-947-6002
Note: The 2005 Fall Hunting Forecast includes information on deer, elk, bear, cougar, waterfowl and upland game bird hunting. It is available on disk, via e-mail, standard mail or on the Web at
http://www.dfw.state.or.us.
NORTHWEST REGION
Northwest Deer
Although the summer of 2004 was dry, early fall precipitation allowed many deer to enter winter in better condition than 2003 and take advantage of a relatively mild winter. While adult deer may be in good condition, fawn ratios are down in many areas of northwest Oregon, primarily due to deer hair loss syndrome. DHLS leads to hair loss, discoloration, weight loss and, potentially, exposure-related death. The highest proportion of deer with the syndrome occurs in the units west of the Coast Range between Lincoln City and Reedsport (Stott Mountain, Alsea and Siuslaw). Fawns in the Scappoose Unit also were hit hard, with half showing pre-clinical or clinical signs of the syndrome. As a result, controlled hunt tag numbers for 2005 western Oregon antlerless hunts were reduced 11 percent compared to 2004.
Disease and a slow, long-term decline in the black-tailed deer population thought to be caused by habitat changes on forestlands has resulted in a decline in hunter participation. But with fewer hunters in 2004, success was up compared to 2003. One in four black-tailed deer hunters took home a deer in 2004, compared to a 21 percent success rate in 2003. Similar participation rates are expected for 2005.
Bow hunters and hunters who hold a permanent disabilities permit should take note of the more liberal bag limit from what is listed in the 2005 Oregon Big Game Regulations. Action by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission changed the bag limit to “one deer” during buck deer seasons in the Alsea, McKenzie, Saddle Mountain, Santiam, Scappoose, Siuslaw, Stott Mountain, Trask, Willamette and Wilson units for hunters who meet the criteria.
SADDLE MOUNTAIN UNIT: Buck hunting in the Saddle Mountain Unit should be good due to healthy buck escapement last fall. Deer should be most visible in clear cuts, but occur in all habitats. As a general rule, deer densities tend to be higher in the eastern portion of the unit than the western side. Some areas to look at include upper Youngs River and Big Creek in Clatsop County and Crooked Creek and Clear Creek in Columbia County.
WILSON UNIT: The Wilson Unit should offer good buck hunting opportunities due to excellent buck escapement last fall. Clear-cut habitat is limited, with most occurring on private corporate lands and some occurring in scattered areas of state forestlands. Areas to look at with recent logging include the lower Wilson River, upper North Fork Nehalem River, Lost Lake and Camp Olson.
TRASK UNIT: Average to good buck escapement last fall in the Trask Unit should account for average hunting prospects this fall. In the eastern portion of the Trask Unit, deer numbers are slightly above the three to five year average and hunters should find a few mature bucks mixed with a higher portion of younger age bucks available during the hunting season. Some of the best hunting is on private timberlands where timber harvest has occurred within the last three to five years. Some areas to consider in the eastern Trask Unit are the upper portions of the Yamhill River and upper Willamina Creek. Hunters looking to experience less road traffic and more walk-in hunting opportunities are encouraged to explore the Upper Tualatin-Trask Travel Management Area located west of Henry Hagg Lake.
In the western portion of the unit, clear-cut habitat on federal forestlands is very limited, but recent logging on private lands has created considerable open habitat. Some areas to consider include the upper Nestucca River, upper Tillamook River, upper Yamhill River and lower Trask River tributaries.
SCAPPOOSE UNIT: Deer hunters in the Scappoose Unit should expect a below average year due to the lack of buck deer escapement over the past three years. The Scappoose Unit has a variety of habitats and can accommodate a wide variety of hunting styles including stand hunting, still hunting and deer drives for hunters to explore. Hunters are advised to locate and concentrate their efforts near the best available food sources, which should be close to streams, ponds, and other water sources. The majority of timberland managers in the Scappoose Unit participate in the North Coast Travel Management Area and hunters are reminded to read and obey all informational signs posted by private timberland owners to ensure access for future hunting seasons. High fire danger closures due to hot, dry fall weather conditions will significantly limit hunter access into the Scappoose Unit. Check with timberland managers prior to planning your trip. Areas to look include Pebble Creek, Cedar Creek and the upper portions of East Dairy Creek.
SANTIAM AND WILLAMETTE UNITS: Deer hunting is forecast to be average in the northern half of the units and below average in the southern half. Buck ratios on Forest Service lands, including the Mt. Hood National Forest, remain high but deer are scattered and difficult to locate in these areas due to the heavy vegetation and rugged terrain. To have the best success in the Mt. Hood National Forest, hunters will need to thoroughly scout the best habitat areas prior to the hunting season and continue to scout as the season progresses and deer move to new forage areas. Adverse weather that brings a little snow will significantly improve hunter success in this area. Buck escapement was good on private timberlands of the Santiam Unit and hunters should spend time contacting timberland managers to get advice on areas damaged by deer. Some popular areas to hunt include the upper Molalla River, upper Abiqua Creek and the upper Eagle Creek drainage. The Access and Habitat Program has funded hunter access projects on private timberlands in Marion and Linn Counties. Information on hunter access can be found on the ODFW Web site at
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/AH/hunting/.
Hunters in the Willamette Valley and lower elevations of the Santiam Unit will find deer populations reduced due to mortality from hair-loss syndrome, which has occurred over the last five to eight years. However, some local deer populations in Linn County seem to have a lower incidence of hair-loss syndrome this year.
Deer hunting will be very difficult if the hot, dry conditions typically found early in the season persist. Better hunter success traditionally has occurred in the latter part of the season when rain and leaf fall have improved hunting conditions. The best early season bets are near irrigated croplands, north-facing slopes and cool areas near water. Fire closures could affect access to most private timberlands until significant rains occur. Those hunters willing to spend time making contacts and securing permission to hunt private properties in the Willamette Valley should experience good hunting opportunities.
STOTT MOUNTAIN UNIT: ODFW expects hunting conditions to be fair depending on location. The 2004 and 2005 growing seasons were very good, however, the spring fawn ratios were poor primarily due to hair-loss syndrome, which may be taking a toll on the deer population. Surveys conducted by ODFW biologists last fall found a decrease in the number of bucks in this unit. Hunters can expect adult deer to be in excellent condition this fall, but their numbers will be similar to last year – relatively low compared to the mid-1990s. Hunting conditions will vary around the unit. It is unlikely hunter success will be better than last year. Some popular areas for hunting deer in the Stott Unit include Gold Creek, Rock Creek, 500 line, Rickreall Creek, Black Rock, Euchre Mtn/Creek, Mill Creek, Stott Mtn, Fanno Mtn, and Gravel Creek.
The eastern half and some areas of the southwest part of the Stott Mountain unit have the best hunting opportunities because the deer population tends to be larger and more recent logging provides better visibility for hunters. Damage to tree seedlings does occur in some areas, most notably in the south central and eastern edge of the Stott Mountain Unit. There are many roads and the unit is mostly private timberlands, so hunters need good maps and should have permission to hunt. The best map available is from the Department of Forestry and is titled, “West Oregon.”
ALSEA UNIT: Deer harvest had a slight upturn in 2003 and 2004, but the harvest is well below the mid-1990s. Although the buck ratio continues to be high and there was an excellent 2005 growing season, poor fawn production has occurred over the past three years and the population is declining as a result. Most adult deer should be in very good condition this hunting season. Excellent late rifle season weather resulted in good buck hunting in 2004 in some areas.
The eastern half and northern third of the unit provide the best opportunities, but deer can be found throughout. Areas of timber damage generally are located in the eastern half of the unit and usually north of state Highway 34. Deer near the coast are in lower numbers and are more difficult to hunt. Some popular areas for hunting deer in the Alsea Unit include Mill Creek, Burnt Woods, Cougar Mountain, Mary's River, Pee Dee, Greasy Creek, Nashville, Alexander Road, Green Mountain, Luckiamute River, Price Creek, and Tum Tum. The “West Oregon” map from the Oregon Department of Forestry will be helpful for hunting this unit also.
SIUSLAW UNIT: As in some other parts of western Oregon, deer populations in the Siuslaw Unit appear to be declining. Buck ratios, however, are still good and the 2005 growing season has been excellent. In 2004, there were very good hunting conditions near the end of the season. Deer hair-loss syndrome has resulted in increased deer mortality in much of the lower elevation area. Hunting success is expected to be only fair this fall. A good map of this area is available from the Oregon Department of Forestry and is titled, “Western Lane.”
INDIGO AND MCKENZIE UNITS: Deer populations in the Indigo and McKenzie units appear to have declined over the last several years because of both habitat changes and disease problems. In general, lower elevation areas are more productive and achieve higher deer densities. However, many deer in the Willamette Valley and lower elevation areas of the Indigo and McKenzie units have been affected by deer hair loss syndrome. Some localized areas have seen significant population declines. Despite lower population numbers, buck ratios generally are good. Large bucks can be found in agricultural fringe areas because of the good forage availability and more restricted access on private lands. High elevation areas also produce good bucks because the more extensive cover and limited road access in some areas allow many bucks to reach an older age. Weyerhaeuser Company owns a large portion of the industrial forestlands in these units. Several Weyerhaeuser tracts have significant acreage in young tree plantations and provide fair hunting opportunities. Access information for Weyerhaeuser lands is available through a recorded message at (541) 741-5403. Oregon Department of Forestry maps, with a scale of 0.5 inch to the mile, provide good base maps for these units to help identify land ownership and major roads. More detailed maps for USFS or BLM lands, at 1 inch to the mile, are available from these two agencies. Overall, hunters can expect to find fair deer hunting throughout most of these two units.
Northwest Elk
Elk populations appear to have remained stable in 2005 following a very mild winter in much of the state. In 2004, 94 percent of the wildlife units surveyed for Roosevelt elk met bull management objective escapement levels. In 2005, 76 percent of the units surveyed were at, or above, bull M.O. The number of controlled hunt tags for elk in western Oregon is down 9 percent for 2005 because the number of damage complaints has declined. Recent hunter success rates for all Roosevelt elk hunts were 14 and 12 percent in 2003 and 2004, respectively.
For this year, the Wilson and Trask units bull elk seasons were moved from October to November and will now be considered part of the Coast season. The bag limit will continue to be spike only in the second season.
Hunters who hold a Permanent Disabilities Permit should take note of the more liberal bag limit from what is listed in the 2005 Oregon Big Game Regulations. Action by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission changed the bag limit to “antlerless or legal bull” during bull elk seasons in the Alsea, McKenzie, Saddle Mountain, Santiam, Scappoose, Siuslaw, Stott Mountain, Trask, Willamette and Wilson units for hunters who have a permit.
SADDLE MOUNTAIN: Adequate bull escapement from last fall’s harvest in the Saddle Mountain Unit will likely mean average bull hunting this fall. Areas with high elk numbers and open habitat include upper Youngs River, Big Creek and upper Rock Creek.
WILSON UNIT: The Wilson Unit had excellent bull escapement from the fall of 2004 and good calf recruitment this spring. Bull hunting should be very good with elk distributed throughout the unit. Some popular hunting areas are the upper North Fork Nehalem River, Lost Lake and Camp Olson.
TRASK UNIT: Good post-season bull ratios (10 per 100 cows) in the western portion of the Trask Unit, coupled with good calf recruitment should provide better-than-average bull hunting prospects this fall. Elk are well distributed and hunters are advised to spend time scouting in order to determine movement patterns of elk herds prior to the season opener. Some popular areas with open habitats include upper Tillamook River, upper Nestucca River, upper Yamhill River and lower Trask River.
In the eastern portion of the Trask Unit, decreasing post-season bull ratios (12 per 100 cows in 2005 compared to 16 per 100 in 2004) and average calf recruitment should provide average to below average bull elk hunting prospects. Hunters will need to spend additional time scouting for elk to maximize their opportunities on opening day. Much of the eastern portion of the unit is private timberland; access policies vary from year to year and from company to company. Hunters should contact the landowner if they have questions concerning access to specific areas. Some popular areas with open habitats include the upper Yamhill River, upper Tualatin River and near Barney Reservoir.
SCAPPOOSE UNIT: Below average post-season bull elk ratios (8 per 100 cows) and a declining elk population should provide hunters with below average hunting in the Scappoose Unit this fall. Bull elk hunters can expect to find a majority of the bull elk harvest opportunity to be spikes with a few small branch bulls also available. Antlerless elk hunters will find elk scattered throughout the unit and hunters should spend time scouting and making contacts with farm owners before the season for best success. Some popular areas to hunt are the Cedar Creek Canyon, Pebble Creek drainage and Buxton-Bacona area.
SANTIAM UNIT: Roosevelt elk numbers are stable or slightly decreasing in the Santiam Unit. Overall, hunting is predicted to be fair. The bull ratio is declining in the northern portion of the unit (13 per 100 cows in 2005) and there are fewer branch bulls available for hunters. In the southern portion, the bull ratio is very good (30 per 100 cows) and many mature bulls are present in the population. Hunters will find that the density of elk is generally lower in the northern part of the unit than in the southern part. Elk will be scattered throughout the unit making it difficult for hunters to target one specific area. Hunters headed for the Mt. Hood National Forest are advised to scout a large area of the national forest to locate recent elk activity and to continue to monitor the elk herd locations as they move through the forest in order to maximize their success. There are good numbers of elk on private lands outside the national forest and hunting should be good for those who have obtained permission to access these lands. Some popular areas include the Eagle Creek, upper Molalla drainage and the Abiqua Creek drainage.
STOTT MOUNTAIN UNIT: The bull ratio is well above management objectives and in certain areas, such as the middle third of the unit, elk numbers reach a high density. There are scattered herds throughout the unit with a concentration of elk in the western and middle portions of the unit. The bull ratio averages more than 11 per 100 cows throughout the unit. The 2004 bull harvest was down slightly from 2003. Most bulls are spikes or young, branched bulls but hunters willing to work hard at scouting the unit may be able to find a few scattered mature bulls.
Many private lands may be open during the early archery season due to August rains. There are numerous controlled antlerless elk hunts for population control and damage. These hunts provide an excellent opportunity to harvest an elk if you drew a tag. Most of the Stott Mountain Unit is private timberland with many roads. The travel management area in the Stott Mountain Unit and north Alsea Unit provides excellent walk-in hunting. Hunters should read the 2005 regulations for details. When in the field, hunters should not drive behind gated, bermed or posted roads and should not block gates or roads. Some popular areas to hunt elk in the Stott Unit include the South Fork Siletz River, Fanno Mountain, Gravel Creek, Mill Creek, Elk Creek, Euchre Creek, and mainstem Siletz River.
ALSEA UNIT: The highest density of elk occurs in the southwest quarter of the unit between Highway 34 and Highway 126, from Waldport to Florence. Most of this land is U.S. Forest Service land with scattered private farmland in the valleys. The bull ratio has been improving and is about 18 bulls per 100 cows. A majority of bulls observed are branched. Hunters who are seeking large bulls should do considerable scouting before the hunting season. The terrain is rugged and much of the land is unobservable from roads because of tall trees and thick understory. Hunting is difficult. There are numerous scattered herds of elk outside of the southwest quarter, especially in the north central area of the unit. These scattered herds provide excellent hunting opportunities for those familiar with the unit, although some small local areas have poor bull ratios. There are growing elk populations north of Highway 20, as well as the northeastern third of the unit on corporate timberlands. The antlerless elk controlled hunts in the Alsea Unit provide a great opportunity to harvest a cow elk. Popular elk hunting areas in the Alsea include the Yachats River, Five Rivers, North Fork Siuslaw River, Valsetz, Mill Creek, Rock Creek Road, Luckiamute River, Airlie, Burnt Woods, Thompson Creek, Grant Creek, Wolf Creek, Logsden, Pee Dee Creek, and Dunn Forest.
SIUSLAW UNIT: The Siuslaw Unit has a slowly growing population of elk, but is still below the management objective of 4,000 with an estimated 2,500 elk. Bull ratios are poor (9 per 100 cows) so expect the majority of bulls to be spikes. Prospects for hunting in the north Siuslaw are only fair because of the steep, rugged terrain and the scattered herds of elk. Knowing this area well before the hunting season would greatly improve the chances of a successful hunt. A good map of this area is available from the Oregon Department of Forestry and is titled “Western Lane.”
INDIGO AND MCKENZIE UNITS: The Indigo and McKenzie units have healthy elk herds with population numbers near their management objectives of 4,700 and 5,200, respectively. Of these two units, the McKenzie Unit has more wilderness and road closures that result in slightly higher bull ratios (16 per 100 cows) and more large bulls. Diverse hunting opportunities are offered. Hunters have choices from agricultural fringe areas to high country wilderness. A change in elk behavior and distribution in these two units has become evident as hunting opportunities have been expanded to include more cow hunts, youth hunts, muzzleloader hunts and archery hunts. Elk are now more dispersed and occur in smaller groups. They are wary and are not often caught in open clear cuts. Calls that were effective a few years ago now do more to spook the elk than attract them. Many hunters are impressed with the amount of sign that they see, yet find it a challenge to actually find the elk. Hunting prospects for this year are expected to be good although hunters can expect to hunt hard to get one. Oregon Department of Forestry maps, with a scale of 0.5 inch to the mile, provide good base maps for these units to help identify land ownership and major roads. More detailed maps for USFS or BLM lands, at 1 inch to the mile, are available from these two agencies.
Northwest Bear
Biologists throughout northwest Oregon say bear hunters can expect an above average year. Bear populations are healthy and some local populations appear to be increasing. ODFW estimates the population to be about 30,000 black bears statewide, but does not have localized information. To better track the population, ODFW has embarked on a new research project in northwest Oregon.
Earlier this summer, researchers lured bears with the smell of bacon to hanging bait stations. The bait sacks contained tetracycline capsules wrapped in bacon. The drug stains the bears' teeth, and the stain is visible under ultraviolet light. The system allows researchers to conduct a mark-recapture study to estimate the number of black bears in Oregon. To be effective, the system depends on the “recapture” portion of the study with successful bear hunters to returning a small “premolar” tooth to the agency.
The bear meat is safe to eat and will not stain the teeth of people who eat the meat. Removal of the premolar tooth will not harm the quality of any planned taxidermy work. As a thank you to hunters, ODFW will notify hunters of the bear’s age next year after all laboratory analyses are completed.
ODFW mails all hunters who purchase bear tags instructions about returning a tooth. In addition, hunters who harvest a female bear are asked to turn in the reproductive tract to so researchers can determine the population growth rate. Hunters who do not receive the instructions on removing a tooth or female reproductive tract may contact a local ODFW office for assistance. Hunters who turn in a tooth and female reproductive tracts can help reduce the possibility of mandatory check stations.
The deadline to purchase a general season fall bear tag is Friday, Sept. 30, 2005.
SADDLE MOUNTAIN, WILSON AND WESTERN TRASK UNITS: Bear populations in the Saddle Mountain, Wilson and western portion of the Trask units should be at relatively high levels. Hunters should check out clear cuts and natural openings for berry patches that bear use in the mornings and evenings. Bear densities tend to be higher in the coastal portions of these units than the interior portions. Predator calling has become more popular and can be a very effective method to hunt bear.
SCAPPOOSE AND EASTERN TRASK UNITS: Black bear populations in the Scappoose Unit and eastern portion of the Trask Unit are low and widely scattered. Most bears harvested in the area are taken incidentally by hunters participating in deer or elk seasons. To increase chances for success, hunters specifically targeting bears can use a predator call or hunt in areas where bears forage for berries or fruit early in the season. Black bear sign near these feeding areas usually is abundant and easy to distinguish.
SANTIAM UNIT: The black bear population in the northern portion of the Santiam Unit remains at a moderate to high level. Bear populations appear to be most abundant along the Sandy River from Sandy to Government Camp and in the upper Molalla River drainage. Using a predator call or hunting areas where bears forage for huckleberries may improve success. Hunters also might consider contacting berry and fruit orchard owners along the forest fringe or private timber property managers for permission to hunt. In the southern portion of the Santiam Unit, bear are more widely scattered in forest habitat and hunting is difficult. Populations are healthy, and knowledgeable, patient hunters can take bear.
ALSEA AND STOTT MOUNTAIN UNITS: In the central Coastal Mountains, black bear are abundant but difficult to hunt. Expect more bears closer to the coast. Berry producing plants appear to be very vigorous, and ODFW expects a good crop to provide plenty of bear food in a widespread area. Hunters should look for bears near berry patches and along streams and wet areas, especially during warm weather.
Bears are doing well in both the Alsea and Stott Mountain units. The number of bears increases the closer one gets to the coast. It is, however, difficult to hunt bears close to the coast because of thick vegetation. Bears occasionally can be seen along roads that are overgrown or rarely used. They also are observed along stream bottoms and areas that provide lots of berries. Using predator calls might improve bear hunting success. Look for bears in old burns and other areas with salal, blackberries, thimbleberries, huckleberries, etc., in the earlier part of the season. Check out the Oregon Department of Forestry Web site to look at mapped areas of bear damage for potential hunting locations.
MCKENZIE, INDIGO AND SIUSLAW UNITS: Bear populations are very healthy in the McKenzie, Indigo and Siuslaw units. At lower elevations look for bears near orchards, blackberry patches and around nut and fruit trees. At higher elevations, hunt for bear where huckleberries, manzanita berries, choke cherry or other berries are abundant.
Northwest Cougar
ODFW biologists report that cougar hunters in northwest Oregon can expect an average to above-average year, depending on the location. Cougar densities tend to be higher in the Cascades. As both the cougar and human populations have grown, so have the number of conflicts and damage complaints. A draft management plan now out for public review is designed to address the conflicts between the growing numbers of cougars and humans.
By all accounts, cougar management is an Oregon success story. After being nearly eliminated by the mid-1960s, today’s cougar populations are healthy and estimated to be 5,100 animals. The draft plan establishes a minimum desirable cougar population of at least 3,000. It does not, however, set a targeted cougar population level or a ceiling. The number of cougars in Oregon may exceed 3,000, but the draft plan calls for managing no fewer than 3,000 cougars.
Many hunters have asked for a change in the statute that bans the use of hounds to hunt cougars. Oregonians voted twice through initiative petition to prohibit the use of hounds to hunt cougars, and the Legislature and Governor have agreed with that stance. The draft plan abides by voters’ intent. However, existing law does allow federal and state employees to use a range of management tools, including hounds and snares but not including poison, to deal with cougars that are causing human, pet or livestock conflicts. The plan calls for ODFW to continue responding to safety and damage complaints, and for problem cougars to be humanely euthanized if they pose a risk to humans, pets or livestock.
Similar to other wildlife management plans, the draft cougar plan incorporates specific actions to deal with conflict while maintaining hunting and viewing opportunities. To read or comment on the draft plan, go to
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlife/cougar/. The deadline to submit comments is Oct. 31, 2005.
Hunters are reminded the deadline to purchase a general season cougar tag is Friday, Sept. 30, 2005.
SADDLE MOUNTAIN, WILSON, TRASK AND SCAPPOOSE UNITS: Cougar densities appear to be relatively low in the Saddle Mountain, Wilson, Trask and Scappoose units compared to the Cascades. The best way to hunt these elusive cats, regardless of where you hunt, is with a predator call.
ALSEA AND STOTT MOUNTAIN UNITS: The cougar populations appear to be growing slowly in the Alsea and Stott Mountain units. Areas with abundant deer are the best places to begin. South of state Highway 34 appears to be the area with the most cougar, but they do live throughout both units.
SANTIAM, MCKENZIE, INDIGO AND SIUSLAW UNITS: Cougar are abundant throughout the Santiam, McKenzie, Indigo and Siuslaw units. Indicators such as sightings, damage complaints and cougar taken on damage problems, all indicate a population that has increased in number and distribution in the last several years. Hunting cougar is a challenge, but harvest of these elusive game animals is on the increase. Hunters are reporting that a there is some success in hunting cougars by tracking the animals in new snow, using calls and just spending enough time in the woods to get lucky. Hunters also may find success in slowly hunting the hills and slopes around wintering populations of deer. Care should be taken not to disturb the deer herds during the winter when they already are subjected to stress.
Hunters are reminded that female cougars with kittens and kittens are protected. Successful hunters are reminded to check-in all cougars harvested within 72 hours of harvest at an ODFW office.
Northwest Upland Game Bird
Hunters can expect an average year, biologists say. The northwest Oregon upland bird outlook is fair with the potential for good hunting in some areas.
In the northern Coast Range and mid-coast range, the wet 2005 nesting season should have produced below average numbers this year for mountain quail and forest grouse.
Ruffed grouse and blue grouse nesting success appears to be improved over 2004, but is not as strong as that observed in 2003, which was a very good year for grouse. Recently completed surveys indicate there may be reasonably good hunting this fall, especially for mountain quail on the north coast. On the mid-coast, ruffed grouse and mountain quail will not likely be very numerous, however, the western Siuslaw unit appeared to have moderate grouse production.
In the northern Cascades, blue and ruffed grouse numbers appear to have rebounded from previous poor production years and biologists observed average nesting success this summer. Hunting for forest grouse is predicted to be average with young birds available to hunters willing to work for success. Mountain quail populations in the lower elevations of the Cascades should be below average in most locations due to the wet spring, which appeared to affect nesting success. Central Cascades grouse and quail populations are better than in the northern Cascades. Carryover of adults from last year was good, but production this spring was negatively affected by late spring rains resulting in small brood sizes. Some re-nesting and late broods are likely.
Upland game birds are generally difficult to hunt in western Oregon due to the thick vegetation and scattered birds. Most people only see them while traveling along gravel roads. A good bird dog can significantly improve hunting success. Mountain quail most often are observed in young timber plantations and brushy clear cuts, especially south-facing slopes before the fall rains.
Ruffed grouse live along streams and damp places with plenty of berries, but hunters may find them in older forest areas on mid-slopes and near streams. Low gradient, meandering riparian areas in mixed deciduous forests are good ruffed grouse habitat. An old, closed road in older timber near a stream could be an ideal place to hunt ruffed grouse. Blue grouse are usually found in higher elevation coastal mountains. Look for blue grouse on ridges, especially in areas with grassy meadows surrounded by large mature trees. They are difficult to locate, but a good berry crop, a favorite food of grouse in the early fall, is expected this year which can concentrate grouse making them easier to locate and hunt.
Mourning dove numbers are fair in the Willamette Valley but any cool weather or rain may cause an early departure south. Hunting over stubble fields, water and gravel sources early in the season occasionally can be effective.
Pheasant and California quail populations continue to be very limited since modern agricultural practices no longer support the numbers that once existed here. Nearly all of the Willamette Valley is private land, which requires obtaining access prior to hunting. Western Oregon fee pheasant hunts take place in September and October on the Sauvie Island, E.E. Wilson and Fern Ridge Wildlife Areas. The season dates were extended at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area this year. Check the regulations for special rules that apply to the fee hunt program.
Turkey populations have grown in Oregon and the fall general turkey season is open in Polk, Marion, Benton and Linn counties. The season has been extended by a month this year to Dec. 31. Hunters interested in participating in a new emergency hunt program for turkeys should contact the ODFW Wildlife Division at 503-947-6300.
ODFW has extended the wing collection effort to include blue and ruffed grouse and mountain quail harvested throughout Oregon. Hunters who participate in this program will be sent wing collection bags and instructions on how to properly submit wings and tails. If you would like to assist ODFW in this effort, please write to ODFW, 3406 Cherry Ave. NE, Salem, OR 97303, Attn: Dave Budeau, or Email to david.a.budeau@state.or.us. Hunter assistance is would be greatly appreciated.
Hunters should note a new band-tailed pigeon permit is required for this year.
Northwest Waterfowl
Biologists report that hunters should expect an average to better than average year.
Migrations of waterfowl from both Alaska and Canada combined with expanding resident waterfowl populations should provide good hunting opportunities this year. Season lengths and bag limits are again very liberal, but bag limit restrictions remain on pintails, hen mallards, redhead, scaup and canvasbacks. (See regulations for specific bag limit restrictions.). Resident mallards will continue to provide fair early-season hunting along the Willamette River and in local ponds, wetlands and lakes. Late-season hunting is expected to be good for migrant ducks and geese when cold winter weather sends waterfowl south. Duck hunters should scout for good spots on backwater sloughs, or secure permission now to hunt private properties. Healthy resident Canada goose populations and very liberal bag limits should provide very good opportunities for September waterfowl hunters willing to do some pre-season scouting to learn the birds’ movement patterns. Hunters are advised to thoroughly read the regulations for specific dates and bag limits. Sauvie Island Wildlife Area should provide good waterfowl hunting opportunities provided the birds are pushed south by cold weather. The Wildlife Area crop production was good and several fields were incorporated into a new “moist soil” management program, which provides an abundance of natural food sources. Numerous wetlands and hunt areas will be flooded prior to the season.
Early duck hunting should be fair on coastal bays. Wigeon are mid-to-late migrants and will be available on coastal bays and lakes later in the season. Local populations of resident Canada geese continue to increase on north and mid coast bays and in the Willamette Valley. The best hunting generally occurs during storms before heavy rains flood fields and disperses birds, making them harder to hunt. Another excellent time to hunt the coast is during cold spells when some inland waters are ice-covered.
A mix of ducks (mainly wigeon, mallards and divers) should be available in larger north coast estuaries, such as the lower Columbia River and Tillamook, Nestucca and Nehalem bays. However, in recent years, the numbers of ducks on these estuaries has tended to be greater earlier in the season, with numbers diminishing significantly by December. The September goose season is an excellent opportunity for good goose hunting for those willing to invest time into making landowner contacts to get hunting access on private fields where the geese feed.
Hunters should note that a new sea duck permit is required this year for hunters targeting harlequins, scoters, eiders and long-tailed ducks. Last year, a similar permit requirement was put in place for black brant. The cost for both permits is $1.50 at all license agents.
Beginning fall 2006, all goose hunters in northwest Oregon hunting in the permit goose zone or general zone will be required to pass the Northwest Oregon Goose Identification Test. Hunters may choose to take the test in 2005 if they have not already done so. More information can be found on page 19 of the 2005-2006 Oregon Game Bird Regulations.
SOUTHWEST REGION
Southwest Deer
Hunters should expect a similar year as in 2004.
DOUGLAS COUNTY (Dixon, S. Indigo, NW Evans Creek, Melrose, SW Siuslaw, E. Tioga and NE Powers Units): Deer populations are similar to last year, with low levels at higher elevations and medium to high population levels on the Umpqua Valley floor. Most low elevation lands are privately owned so hunters are reminded to obtain permission before hunting on those lands. This year, there will be a limited controlled hunt for Columbian White-tailed deer that were removed from the Federal Endangered Species List in 2003. Hunters who successfully drew those tags should be able to find some nice bucks along creek bottoms in oak woodlands. These deer will be found primarily on private lands where hunters will need to gain permission first. Buck and fawn ratio counts after last hunting season were average. In addition, mild winter conditions over the last few years have contributed to excellent survival providing a good deer harvest opportunity this season. During the early part of the rifle and archery seasons, hunters should find deer on the northerly slopes and near water and green up areas.
COOS COUNTY (Tioga, Sixes, and Powers Units): Black-tail deer populations continue to be at low levels in coastal Coos County units. Rainfall just before the opening of archery season caused some private timberlands to allow public access in the early season. However, if dry conditions return and persist, hunters will find much of the private land closed to access until rain develops later in the fall. The dry conditions will not have much influence on deer distribution near the coast; however, dry conditions farther inland will influence deer distribution. During the archery and early part of the rifle season, hunters should look for deer on northerly slopes and other areas providing water and green feed.
Black-tail deer populations continue to be at low levels in coastal Coos County units. Fawn production was adequate to allow for an increase in deer populations around the county. It is not known what effect Deer Hair-loss Syndrome will have on the fawn survival, however. Buck ratios after the season last year were high enough that hunters should expect to find legal bucks if they work clear cuts and other places that provide brushy habitats. Hunters should expect a season that is comparable to last year.
Last year’s wet conditions prior to archery season allowed many local timber companies to open lands to hunters when they normally would not be open. Since that situation is not typical, hunters should check with local timber companies to secure access to their properties rather than assuming they will be open.
CURRY COUNTY (S. Sixes and Chetco Units): Overall deer populations are still low, but buck ratios have not declined in both units as the result of good fawn production. In recent years, the most productive habitat and best visibility have been found on lower elevation private timber corporation lands. However, with the advent of the Biscuit fire in 2002, there may be some opportunities in the 500,000 acres affected by the burn. The area is primarily U.S. Forest Service land located in and around the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area. Re-growth in the Biscuit Fire has provided some excellent forage and visibility has improved considerably in most of the affected area. The main obstacle for hunters probably will be access. The terrain is rugged and there is minimal road access to most of the burn area. Hunters should check with the U.S. Forest Service and private timber companies for information on access and permit requirements.
JACKSON COUNTY (Rogue, Evans Creek, E. Applegate and S. Dixon Units): Deer populations show an increase from last year, but remain below management goals. Buck ratios remain strong in most units and have increased in the Rogue unit. Good numbers of mature bucks should be available this year. Archers are reminded that antlerless deer are not allowed during the general archery season in most units this year, please be sure to consult the regulations.
JOSEPHINE COUNTY (E. Chetco and W. Applegate Units): Deer densities are highest at the lower elevations later in the season. Buck ratios remain strong in both units, and hunter success should be average to above average in these areas. The Biscuit Fire burned more than 700 square miles in the Chetco Unit, and should provide good feed and visibility as the vegetation recovers over the next few years.
Southwest Elk
DOUGLAS COUNTY (Dixon, S. Indigo, NW Evans Creek, Melrose, SW Siuslaw, E. Tioga and NE Powers Units): February aerial surveys found bull and calf ratios above our management objectives. The outlook for hunters this elk season looks to be above average. This prediction is a result of ratio increases, good escapement from last hunting season and another mild winter increasing elk herd survival. Elk numbers are greatest in the E.Tioga, mid to high elevations of the Dixon and S. Indigo and the perimeter of the Melrose units. Some of the local private timberlands are restricting access due to the high fire danger so hunters should contact them for information on any restrictions before hunting.
COOS COUNTY (Tioga, Sixes, and Powers Units): Elk hunting in all of these units is limited entry. The Tioga is one of the top-producing units in the state for total bull harvest, with other units providing diverse hunting opportunities for fewer people. Bull numbers remain high, at or above management objective, and calf production in the Tioga is relatively low in this three-point or better unit. Hunter interest for limited tags in the Sixes Unit is high and those with tags should have a high success rate despite much privately owned land. Calf production and bull survival in the Sixes Unit is stable and hunter success is good. Calf production in the Powers Unit is above the level needed to maintain the population and the bull ratio remains near the management objective. Spike survival through the hunting seasons is good and continues to contribute to the older bull population.
CURRY COUNTY (S. Sixes and Chetco Units): These units are both limited-entry hunts with a bag limit of any bull. Bull ratios have increased in recent years. Populations are stable and slightly increasing in both units and success should be similar or better than last year. The majority of elk are located on private lands; there may be, however, some additional opportunity in the area around the Biscuit Fire area. Hunters should check with the U.S. Forest Service and private timber companies for information on access and permit requirements.
JACKSON COUNTY (Rogue, Evans Creek, S. Dixon and E. Applegate Units): Hunters can expect better than normal success in the Rogue and South Dixon units this year. Calf production is similar to last year when combined for both units. Weather conditions for hunting were adequate in 2004, and resulted in a slight increase in bull harvest. There should be a good surplus of mature bulls for the 2005 season. The Upper Rogue Green Dot Travel Management program again will be in effect on the Prospect and Butte Falls Ranger Districts. Elk in the Evans Creek Unit are primarily found near private properties. Bull ratios and calf production are both quite high, but private properties often limit access. Elk populations in the E. Applegate are minimal, however bulls can be found in select drainages.
JOSEPHINE COUNTY (E. Chetco and W. Applegate Units): Elk populations are minimal in the E. Chetco and the W. Applegate. There are surplus bulls to be harvest in Josephine County, but the hunter must be familiar with the land and do a lot of pre-scouting. Hunters should concentrate their efforts in the Siskiyou National Forest.
Southwest Bear and Cougar
Hunters can expect an average year.
Remember to purchase bear and cougar tags before the September 30, 2005, deadline. Successful bear hunters are reminded to turn in a bear tooth for the ongoing bear population study in Southwest Oregon.
DOUGLAS COUNTY (Dixon, S. Indigo, NW Evans Creek, Melrose, SW Siuslaw, E. Tioga and NE Powers Units): The very dry weather conditions will concentrate bears near streams where foraging will be better. Hunters should concentrate their efforts in the berry patches in early morning and late afternoon. Bear numbers are good with the highest numbers at moderate to low elevations in the coast range, and with smaller populations in the Cascades. Cougars are abundant throughout Douglas County and are a challenge to hunt, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private low elevation lands using a predator call.
COOS COUNTY: Opportunities for seeing a bear to harvest will be excellent this fall in all hunting units. Bears came through the winter in good condition. Blackberry production appears to be late this year in some areas but as they ripen it should concentrate bears and make them easier to locate. Hunters should concentrate hunting efforts during early morning and evening. The cougar population in Coos County is high with numerous sightings and damage complaints. Most cougars are taken incidentally during other hunting seasons, but many are taken with the aid of a predator call.
CURRY COUNTY: Bear densities are high in the Chetco and Sixes units. Early in the season, look for bears feeding in areas of high blackberry or huckleberry production. As acorns ripen later in the season, hunters should look for bear activity in oak stands. The massive Biscuit Fire is recovering and new growth may draw in bears to certain areas.
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES: Bear populations are generally high. Early season hunters can often find bears near huckleberries at higher elevations, or feeding on blackberries on north slopes and near creeks. Later in the season, best success will be near acorns or fruit trees at lower elevations. Cougars are common throughout the area, but seldom seen. Most are taken incidentally by hunters while searching for other game, but they can be successfully hunted by using predator calls. Look for fresh tracks after a light snowfall and pursue.
Southwest Upland Game Birds
Hunters can expect a better-than-average year.
Hunters are asked to help in data collection by providing a wing and tail fan with rump feathers from harvested blue and ruffed grouse and mountain quail. Collection bags (one for each bird) and simple instructions are available at all ODFW offices. Bags with samples should be dropped off at any ODFW office. This information is used for determination of hatching dates, sex and age composition and general health of local populations. Mountain quail nesting season was good so hunting success should be high. Success is best in the mid-elevations of the Cascades and Coast Range near brushy clearcuts on secondary forest roads. Turkey production was fair this year so hunter harvest should be satisfactory. Most turkeys can be found on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat. California (Valley) quail counts were similar this year so hunting success should be good. Most California quail are found on agricultural and low elevation forestland. Pheasant outlook is poor since the Rogue and Umpqua Valley lowlands have very few pheasants that still exist on private lands and are available for harvest. Blue and ruffed grouse counts for the past few years indicate average production. Hunting availability and success for forest grouse should be good this season. Blue grouse success is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partly open conifer stands. Ruffed grouse can be found near creeks mostly at mid elevations of both the Cascades and Coast Range. Hunters may use rimfire rifles or pistols to harvest forest grouse in 2005.
COOS COUNTY: Hunters should find mountain and valley quail hunting good to excellent in Coos County. A good carry over from the mild winter and good nesting conditions should result in greater numbers of birds available to hunters. Good numbers of mountain quail have been seen in surveys and chick survival appears high. Ruffed grouse populations are stable with good production this year, by all indications. Blue grouse will be available to hunters hunting higher elevations near ridge tops and clear cuts.
Hunters should find mountain and valley quail hunting moderately good in Coos County. Conditions for chick survival were not as good as hoped for coastal Coos County. Rain in the months of May and June are, quite often, detrimental to chick survival and that occurred this year. However, broods are being sighted around the county so some production occurred. Upland hunters may find better populations if they hunt areas inland from the coast.
Due to the fact that grouse chicks hatch earlier that quail wet conditions this spring may have had a more significant effect on their survival. However, as with quail, people are reporting seeing grouse broods in the county. So there was some production from them as well. Hunters should look for the best habitat available and concentrate on those places this year. Good habitat would include brushy or grassy openings in the forest or creek bottoms with lots of berry bushes. These places will, likely, produce birds especially if they are away from roads.
There was a good carry over of adult upland birds in Curry County due to the mild winter. Mountain quail and grouse had a fair nesting season. California quail are present on agricultural lands and low elevation forestland. California quail had an average nesting season.
DOUGLAS COUNTY (Dixon, S. Indigo, NW Evans Creek, Melrose, SW Siuslaw, E. Tioga and NE Powers Units): Hunters are asked to help in data collection by providing a wing and tail fan with rump feathers from harvested mountain quail, blue and ruffed grouse. Collection bags (one for each bird) and sample instructions are available at all ODFW offices. Bags with samples should be dropped off at any ODFW office. This information is used for determination of hatching dates, sex and age composition and general health of local populations.
An extended wet spring may have been responsible for a decline in valley quail and turkey brood counts this year. While some hen turkeys were successful in hatching late broods other hens were seen gathering in flocks earlier than usual without poults. Most turkeys can be found on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat. Most California quail are found on agricultural and low elevation forestland. Forest grouse counts indicate fair nesting success. Hunting availability and success for forest grouse should be fair to good this season. Blue grouse success is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partly open conifer stands. Ruffed grouse can be found near brushy creeks mostly at mid elevations of both the Cascades and Coast Range. The pheasant outlook is poor in the Umpqua Valley lowlands, as very few pheasants still exist on private lands that are available for harvest.
The delayed wet spring played a role in the Rogue Valley for producing only moderate survival conditions for game bird chicks. Mountain Quail counts were up from last year, and chicks/brood was also higher. Pen-reared pheasants will be released on the Denman Wildlife Area near White City for a youth hunt in September and a permit entry hunt in October. Reservations are needed to assure an opportunity in the youth hunt, so hunters should consult the Upland Game Bird Regulations for details of both hunts.
Southwest Waterfowl
Hunters can expect an above-average year.
Hunting for resident geese in Douglas County should be very good this year as goose production continues to be excellent. The early September goose hunt (Sept. 10-15) should be excellent for hunters along river gravel bars frequented by geese or for those with permitted access to private property. Local duck production is traditionally good, but small, so success should improve as the fall migrating ducks arrive. Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters are reminded to obtain landowner permission before hunting.
Western Canada goose and other waterfowl production appears to be good this year. Hunters should find good hunting for ducks and geese along coastal bays early in the season before inland valleys fill with water from fall rains.
Due to the delisting of the Aleutian cackling Canada goose, goose hunting west of Hwy. 101 from the city of Bandon south to the California state line will be open during the Fall season. The bag limit will be four dark geese and four light geese per day during the Southwest Oregon General Zone season.
Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge will continue to be closed during the September Canada goose season as it has in the past.
Hunters are reminded that they will be required to obtain a permit to hunt sea ducks and black brant this year.
Canada goose populations continue to expand in the Rogue Valley. Duck hunting success depends on water conditions and winter storms to the north. Some public hunting opportunities can be found on the Rogue River, Denman Wildlife Area and area reservoirs, but most birds are associated with private properties. Hunters are reminded to obtain permission to hunt private lands, and be considerate of private residences along the riverbanks.
HIGH DESERT REGION
Hunting will be difficult if warm and dry weather continues. Hunters should contact local land management agencies to determine current fire restrictions, and information regarding the status of access and camping.
Depending on the weather and the fire situation, some roads or areas may be closed to entry. Contacting the landowner or responsible public agency in advance may save a wasted trip.
Deer and elk tend to avoid new, big burns. However, look for animals in adjacent unburned cover, particularly if there is water and green forage.
If there are early fall rains, fire areas may experience some re-growth. This new green forage is highly desirable to deer and elk, and the animals will move out into the burns in pursuit of this high quality food.
The 2003/2004 fire areas have not recovered to the point that big game forage is available without fall rains. Most animals, therefore, will be located in remaining cover areas adjacent to the burns.
Substantial numbers of dead trees remain in the 2003/2004 fire areas and these trees have a tendency to fall during periods of high wind. Hunters should avoid the burn areas during high winds.
High Desert Deer
Hunters can expect an average year.
Although mule deer populations in the Maupin and West Biggs Units have shown the effects of poor fawn recruitment over the last several years, with decreased buck tags and increased fawn production last year, buck ratios are once again above management objectives in both units this year. Buck tags in the White River Unit were increased slightly this year thanks to an increase in fawn production and survival following a mild winter. The Hood Unit offers good hunting prospects for those that put in the time to hunt the thick cover; this is where hunters will find the older age class bucks. Hunters should concentrate their efforts around recent logging activities.
MAURY, OCHOCO, AND GRIZZLY UNITS: Overall populations are below desired population goals. However, mild winter conditions, coupled with above normal spring precipitation, resulted in excellent fawn survival. The proportion of mature bucks is near desired management levels, except in the Grizzly unit where there was a decline in mature bucks observed. Hunters will need patience and good hunting conditions to approach these older animals, but should see a good numbers of yearling bucks. The Rager Cooperative Travel Access Program will be in effect on the Paulina Ranger District with no changes from last year. Motorized vehicle restrictions associated with the program start three days prior to the buck season opener and run through elk seasons. Hunters should expect difficult hunting and reduced success if warm, dry weather occurs and should check with BLM and Ochoco National Forest offices for fire restrictions in effect.
UPPER DESCHUTES, PAULINA, METOLIUS, NORTH WAGONTIRE, AND NORTH FORT ROCK UNITS: Good numbers of mature bucks and fair numbers of yearling bucks should be available in the Paulina and Fort Rock units. Most of these units are either at, or just under, management objectives for buck ratios. Populations in these units are below (40 percent) population objectives in the Metolius and Upper Deschutes units and 20 percent below in the Paulina unit. Populations are declining as a result of many factors, including predation, disease, road kill by vehicles, loss of habitat through development, forest succession and increased harassment. As a result, hunter success is expected to be only fair to good in the Paulina, North Fort Rock, Upper Deschutes and Metolius units. Success should be good in the North Wagontire. Please refer to the 2005 Oregon Big Game Regulations for a listing of the road closure areas in the Paulina and Fort Rock units. An Adenovirus Hemorrhagic Disease (AHD)outbreak in the Metolius and North Upper Deschutes units in 2002 continues to impact deer numbers somewhat in both units. This disease is not known to be transmissible to humans.
SILVER LAKE AND FORT ROCK UNITS: Mild winter conditions and persistent spring rains resulted in very good forage conditions. Over winter fawn survival was good which should result in good yearling buck numbers. Both units were over management objective in December, 2004 so mature bucks should be available. Areas burned in 2002 have been salvage logged on summer range and fire tolerant shrubs are recovering.
SOUTH WAGONTIRE, JUNIPER, WARNER AND WEST BEATYS BUTTE UNITS: Winter was mild throughout the area. Spring fawn ratios were the best observed in the last 5 years. Post-season buck ratios were above management objectives with the exception of the North Warner unit. Yearling and older bucks will be available to hunt this fall.
KENO, KLAMATH FALLS, INTERSTATE, SPRAGUE, AND SOUTH FORT ROCK UNITS: Over-winter fawn survival in south-central units was improved over the past few years, which will result in more yearling bucks available this fall. Buck ratios are at or slightly above management objectives. Deer populations remain below management objectives. Above average spring rains have improved water and forage availability so hunters can expect animals to be widely scattered.
Over-winter fawn survival was high in the Silvies, Malheur River, Juniper and Beatys Butte units. Yearling bucks will be in good supply, and there is a fair carry-over of mature bucks from last year. Hunter success in these units is expected to range from 35 to 50 percent. Above average rainfall in April and May created excellent forage and water availability, which has allowed deer to distribute widely throughout these units.
Deer numbers remain well below the management objective in the Steens Mountain Unit and Trout Creek Mountain Hunt Area. However, hunter success is expected to be good due to high post-season buck ratios and very limited hunter numbers. There is an opportunity to harvest a large older buck in these units. Pre-season scouting will improve the chances of locating these mature bucks.
WHITEHORSE, OWYHEE AND BEULAH UNITS: Hunter success in these units is expected to be fair. Fawn ratios were not particularly high, but over winter survival was good. Therefore, recruitment into the adult population should be fairly good this year. Summer has been extremely hot and dry so hunters may experience difficult hunting conditions. Expect to see deer concentrated around water unless we get fall rains before the rifle season. Expect a season comparable to 2004. Buck ratios are fairly high in most units. Due to the dry conditions, hunters are reminded to be extremely careful with fire and check with the local land management agency for travel restrictions before they go hunting.
High Desert Elk
Hunters can expect a better than average year.
Elk numbers in the White River and Hood units are near the management objective. Bull numbers are fair, but heavy cover makes harvesting one a challenge. Most hunters choose to hunt the second of the two general seasons, which is longer and has a better chance of getting snow, which improves the hunting conditions. Bull elk hunting in the Maupin and West Biggs also is general season, but the animals are almost exclusively found on private lands. Unless a hunter knows a landowner in that area, it will be very difficult to find a place to hunt.
MAURY, OCHOCO, AND GRIZZLY UNITS: Elk populations are near population objectives in the Grizzly and Maury units and above the management objective in the Ochoco unit. Calf survival was good in all three units, which should result in a better than average crop of yearling bulls this fall. Dry summer conditions have led to increasing use of lower elevation private lands in all three units. Those hunters with early season private land cow hunts will need to scout often and work with landowners to determine elk use patterns. Those antlerless hunters with Crooked River Hunt tags (237B) are reminded that BLM lands along the North Fork Crooked River that were in the hunt last year are now NOT in the hunt.
Hunters searching for larger mature bulls should find good numbers in the Grizzly and Maury units, but should anticipate a more difficult time in the Ochoco where bull numbers are below the desired management objective. Past problems associated with reduced calf survival, poaching and high hunter success are believed to be contributing to the reduced numbers of bulls in this unit. Hunters are urged to use good judgment and caution when hunting near or on private lands and to always have landowner permission prior to hunting. Young hunters participating in the Ochoco Youth Antlerless Hunt are encouraged to scout prospective hunting areas for elk use. The Rager Cooperative Access Management Program is in effect with no changes from last year.
UPPER DESCHUTES, PAULINA, METOLIUS, NORTH WAGONTIRE, AND NORTH FORT ROCK UNITS: Elk numbers continue to grow slowly in the Cascade units. In the Paulina, East Fort Rock and the North Wagontire units, elk populations appear to be declining and are widely scattered. Relative to the number of elk, branch antlered bull opportunity will be fair in the Paulina and East Fort Rock units. The Upper Deschutes, Metolius and West Fort Rock units are managed under the general season ‘Cascade’ hunt. Branch antlered bull opportunities outside of wilderness areas will be poor to fair in these units. Weather will play an important role in improving hunter success and hunt quality if early winter weather arrives. Most elk in the ‘High Desert’ Wagontire Unit are found in the north half of the unit and will be widely scattered.
KENO AN
2005_Fall_Hunting_Forecast from ODFW
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