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: Cougar, 2nd Rocky Mtn Elk (Closes Nov. 11), Bear, Forest Grouse, Upland Bird, Waterfowl
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
Elk: Second Rocky Mountain Bull Elk hunt runs through Sunday. Elk populations are below management objectives and bull ratios are quite variable in all three units. The Maury and Ochoco units offer the best opportunities for bagging an animal on public land, while the Grizzly unit is mostly private land where access can be difficult. Ochoco unit rifle hunters are reminded the Rager and South Boundary TMA motorized vehicle restrictions will be in effect. Maps of those areas are available on site and from ODFW and Ochoco National Forest offices. Elk tag numbers were decreased in portions of all units as a result of low population estimates and lower bull ratios. Elk bow hunters must also have a controlled Maury Unit deer bow tag (used/unused) to hunt elk in the Maury Unit.
Bear: Successful hunters must check in unfrozen bear skulls at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. Call ahead and make an appointment to ensure a biologist is present for the check in. It’s also a good idea to prop the bear’s mouths open with a stick for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging. Remember that cubs and sows with cubs are illegal to take, so if in doubt use caution. See regulations for details.
Cougar: 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. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure to call first to make an appointment.
