Here is the weekly hunting report for selected areas in and around Central Oregon, provided by wildlife biologists for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:
CENTRAL ZONE
OPEN: Cascade elk (Oct. 13-19 see regs), cougar, bear, forest grouse, upland bird, waterfowl. Be sure to check for any fire restrictions before you go afield. The Oregon Department of Forestry has a list of fire restrictions and closures online and InciWeb has information about current fires—or check with USFS, BLM or the appropriate landowner.
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
Fire danger remains a concern and recreational users should check with Ochoco and Prineville BLM offices for the latest access and camping information.
BEAR: Cubs and sows with cubs are illegal to take, so if in doubt use caution. See regulations for details.
ANTLERLESS ELK: Early hunts are ongoing in portions of the Maury, Ochoco and Grizzly units. These hunts are primarily on private agricultural and range lands where hunters need permission from the landowner. Typically elk move into these hunt areas in greater numbers during the late summer to take advantage of the irrigated pastures and hay fields.
COUGAR: Are present throughout the Maury, Ochoco and Grizzly units but are more likely near deer and elk herds. The Maury and Ochoco units are recommended because of their greater amounts of accessible public land.
