2023-24 game bird hunting forecast

The statewide outlook

Migratory game birds 

DUCKS and GEESE

Population surveys in Oregon and across the continent showed a mixed bag for ducks this spring. Locally, populations were up in western and down in eastern Oregon. This was not unexpected, as three consecutive years of drought has led to poor production the past few years.

However, habitat conditions were much improved due to excellent snowpack and biologists have noted good numbers of duck broods throughout eastern Oregon. Further north populations were generally down from last year. Spring came very late to Alaska and that may have influenced settling patterns for breeding ducks, and most species showed declines from last year and/or the long-term average. Similarly for geese, most populations, including cackling, Taverners, dusky and white-fronted geese were down substantially from last year. However, biologists are reporting excellent production of goslings this summer. ‌

As usual, hunting success will be dependent on bird numbers and habitat conditions this fall and winter. Early in the season, those areas with good habitat conditions should provide excellent hunting opportunities for locally produced birds, as well as early migrants like wigeon, green-winged teal and pintails. Coastal estuaries and the lower Columbia River are always good western Oregon bets early in the season.

East of the Cascades, hunters will find better conditions that last year but many large wetland basins were still partially dry this summer, even after excellent precipitation this winter. Good bets are the popular Summer Lake and Klamath Wildlife Areas. Hunters who plan on traveling should check with the appropriate land manger to see if the area they hope to hunt has water or not.‌

Waterfowl hunters should be aware that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (avian flu) was prevalent in Oregon and across the continent last fall and winter in wild waterfowl. While this disease does not present a significant health concern for humans, hunters should practice some routine hygiene precautions whenever handling wildlife. These measures also will help protect from avian flu or any other disease the bird could be carrying:‌

• Wear rubber or latex gloves when handling and cleaning game birds.
• Do not eat, drink, smoke or touch your face when handling birds.
• Keep the uncooked game bird and any fluid material associated with it away from other foods.
• Thoroughly clean knives and any other equipment or surfaces come in contact with uncooked birds. A good cleanser and sanitizer is a commercial chlorine-based cleaning solution or mix one third cup of chlorine bleach per one gallon of water.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling birds (or with alcohol-based hand products if your hands are not visibly soiled).
• Cook all game meat thoroughly (up to at least 165° F) to kill disease organisms and parasites. Use a food thermometer to ensure the breast or thigh meat has reached at least 165° F.

Please visit the ODFW website for more information and updates through the season.‌

MOURNING DOVES

Hunters should consider a mourning dove hunt this coming season. Although hunters will likely find the largest concentrations of doves in agricultural areas of eastern Oregon, huntable numbers can be found in most areas that are not heavily forested. This early-season hunt is a great way to introduce new and young hunters to wing-shooting since the weather is usually nice and no special equipment is needed. ‌Here's an article about hunting mourning doves.

BAND-TAILED PIGEONS

Like mourning doves, band-tailed pigeons are another of Oregon's migratory upland game birds. The season is short, September 15 – 23, with a 2-bird daily limit. If you go, be sure to get your band-tailed pigeon permit first. Pigeons can be found in throughout forested areas of western Oregon and are typically hunted near food sources or at ridge-top passes. Look for pigeons in forest openings or timber cuttings feeding on elderberries or cascara. If you've never hunted for band-tailed pigeon, here are some tips to get you started.‌

Get HIP in 2023-24

Remember, you must have a free HIP validation to hunt any migratory game bird including mourning doves, band-tailed pigeons and waterfowl. If you bought a Sports Pac, you also will need to redeem your upland and/or waterfowl vouchers before you hunt. ‌

Upland game birds 

Upland game bird hunters will find abundant upland bird populations across the state, with some exceptions. Upland bird populations can vary greatly from year to year depending on weather and habitat conditions. Upland production surveys indicate improvements in both density and production from the previous year for chukar and pheasant, while California quail are holding steady.‌

The winter of 2022-23 brought much-needed precipitation statewide, including the driest parts of the high desert. This moisture had a positive effect on forage, insect production, cover and available water.‌

With snow persisting well into nesting season, we found delayed breeding activity, particularly in higher elevation species such as forest grouse, wild turkeys, sage-grouse, and mountain quail. Nest and brood survival was impacted to some degree, but not range-wide. Hunters may see younger chicks on the ground, the product of successful renesting by hens that failed initially. ‌

Despite the winter snowpack, Eastern Oregon is still recovering from severe drought that has reduced soil moisture, surface water, vegetation, and has come with some extreme temperatures. Hunters will find upland birds using the remaining "green groceries" of the high desert, valuable wet meadows and riparian areas with abundant forage plants and insects. ‌

Western Oregon has experienced a fairly dry, hot summer. Hunters may find upland birds more concentrated near water sources than usual or enjoying the cooler temperatures at higher elevations. The increasingly common theme of wildfire starts increasing in late August holds in 2023, and hunters are reminded to check for access closures and stay safe in fire-prone areas. ‌

Here's what our surveys found for upland bird species:‌

PHEASANTS‌

Eastern Oregon pheasant counts are much improved from last year. Hunters can find birds in the Heppner, Umatilla, Mid-Columbia, Harney, and Union districts of the Columbia Basin. The Malheur District had a better turnout than expected, in the wake of long-term declines driven by reduced habitat more than environmental factors.‌

Western Oregon pheasants remain in certain margins of agricultural land but are generally hard to find. In Oregon, hunters can most often find pheasants in the remaining permanent cover associated with the edge of agricultural fields, irrigation ditches, fencerows, or seasonal wetlands. ‌

CALIFORNIA QUAIL‌

California (valley) quail populations are in generally good shape, well-adapted to the desert environment as long as they can find a water source. Biologists are finding some evidence of poor or delayed production, but not range-wide.‌

Baker and Heppner districts seem to have suffered some overwinter mortality, and Lake may have experienced some failed nesting due to a late, hard freeze. ‌

California quail are most abundant in Harney, Malheur, Grant, Heppner and the Mid-Columbia districts. Hunters will find California quail at lower elevations of eastern Oregon typically associated with a permanent water source and early successional, brushy habitat. ‌

CHUKAR‌

Chukar, known for their large annual population fluctuations, seem poised to have one of their better turnouts in recent history, nearly range-wide. The Baker District continues to be a bright spot, and the Malheur, Harney, Mid-Columbia, and Umatilla districts are expecting one of the strongest showings in several years. Hunters should look for chukar in the large drainages and unforested rimrock country of eastern Oregon. ‌

FOREST GROUSE‌

Forest grouse populations are difficult to survey, so we primarily consider nesting and habitat conditions in the forecast. Forest grouse populations may be skewed toward adults in certain areas this fall due to wintery weather during peak nesting and hatching. ‌

There should be good carryover of adults, but time will tell whether forest grouse hens were able to delay nesting or successfully renest. Hunters should find plenty of adult forest grouse in the Cascades and Coast range. ‌

Best bets for eastside forest grouse hunting are found in the Wallowa and Blue Mountains of northeast Oregon. ‌

What’s new for regulations

• Creation of a beardless turkey season in parts of NE Oregon. See page 24 of 2023-34 Game Bird Regulations booklet.
• New youth permit for Western Oregon Fee Pheasant Hunts; increased price of adult permits to $25.

Youth waterfowl hunts

State youth waterfowl season
This hunt on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, gives young hunters the first shots of the season. To participate, hunters must:‌

• be 17 or younger,
• have successfully completed hunter education,
• have the proper hunting licenses, validations, and federal duck stamp for their age category, and
• be accompanied by a non-hunting adult 21 years of age or older.

Special youth waterfowl hunts‌
In addition to the statewide youth season, several wildlife areas/refuges hold special waterfowl hunts for youth only:‌

• Fern Ridge WA: Nov. 25, Dec. 27
• Klamath WA: Oct. 28
• Sauvie Island WA: Oct. 28, Nov. 12, Dec. 9 & 28, Jan. 13, 2023
• Tualatin River NWR: Nov. 11, 19, 25; Dec. 3, 9, 17, 23, 31; Jan 6, 2024
• Umatilla NWR: Nov. 18

Some of these hunts may require advanced application and registration. See the current Oregon Game Bird Regulations for more information.

Youth upland bird hunts

Youth chukar hunt‌
ODFW will partner with the Klamath Chapter of the Oregon Hunters Association to offer a youth chukar hunt, Oct. 24-25, on the Lower Klamath Hills Regulated Hunt Area. Advance registration is required. See the current Oregon Game Bird Regulations for more information. ‌

Youth pheasant hunts‌
There are several free youth pheasant hunts around the state. ODFW and its partners stock pheasants at these special events, which are open to youth 17 and younger who have successfully completed hunter education. See why you should consider a youth pheasant hunt for your child. Pre-registration is required for most events.‌

• Sept. 9-10, Fern Ridge WA (Eugene).
• Sept. 16-17, Denman WA (Central Point), Klamath WA (Klamath Falls), Ladd Marsh WA (La Grande), Sauvie Island WA (Portland), White River WA (Tygh Valley). Central Oregon (Madras) and John Day.
• Sept. 23, Irrigon WA.
• Sept. 23-24, Coquille Valley WA (Charleston), E.E. Wilson WA (Monmouth).
• Oct. 28, Klamath WA (Klamath Falls)

Return wings and tails

Please return wings and tails of mountain quail and forest grouse; they provide important information about populations. Remove one entire wing and whole tail including small feathers. Place in paper collecting bags (your own or those provided at ODFW offices), one bird per bag. Mark the bag with the species, date taken, county where taken and general location taken. Drop it off at a designated collection sites (ODFW offices or collection barrels). Freeze the bag if you can't drop it off right away.‌‌

Find more information, including a map of barrel locations.‌‌

2023-24 eastern Oregon upland game bird forecast 

Baker County

Upland game bird hunters should see a better than average year in Baker County. Favorable spring conditions and good numbers of birds last year has led to good chick production this year. Chicks were of good size, and broods were generally large. Hunters that hunted last season in Baker County should see a very similar season this year. A&H properties offer good upland hunting and access to public land.‌

Crook and Jefferson counties‌

Hunting opportunities are limited in central Oregon as most upland bird populations are on private lands. The best opportunities for doves will be at lower elevations, including private agricultural lands, and adjoining BLM and Crooked River National Grasslands. Doves may use public lands for roosting and watering, and scouting these areas lands can help hunters locate these hunting opportunities.‌

The Eurasian collared dove population is increasing in this district, and hunters can target these birds with no closed season or bag limit. Forest grouse inhabit the Ochoco National Forest, but are less abundant than in other parts of the state.‌

California quail prefer lower elevation brushy habitat, particularly near agricultural and riparian areas. Although most of these habitat types are on private lands, some public opportunity exists on BLM lands and at the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area. ‌

Deschutes County

Upland game bird species are limited by the climate and available habitat in this district. Biologists believe most upland species production was fair this year, despite late spring heavy precipitation which caused upland birds to re-nest. Re-nesting attempts were mostly successful. ‌

California quail populations are healthy with most found on private lands. Remember to ask for permission before entering private lands.‌

Mountain quail are slowly increasing and are now legal to harvest. The daily bag limit for mountain quail in eastern Oregon is limited to two birds. ‌

Chukar populations are very limited despites some descent habitat in the area. The best place to find chukar is in the Deschutes National Grasslands area just to the west of Lake Billy Chinook. Production in the localized area was good despite the late cool rains last spring. ‌

Public and private landownership is fragmented in the area so it is important to know where you are and that you have permission to access private property. ‌

Good forest grouse habitat is limited in the district, but populations are stable, albeit at low numbers in the Cascade portion of the district. Above average spring precipitation was early enough that chick production was good and created good forage conditions. ‌

Dove hunters are encouraged to take advantage of the expanding Eurasian collared dove population, which has no closed season or bag limit.‌

Grant County

Turkey and chukar offer the best opportunities this season for upland hunters, with turkey widely distributed through the county. Turkeys tend to congregate in large numbers in the John Day Valley, Ritter area and Monument during winter months. However, many of these birds are on private land so hunter must be sure to obtain permission before hunting. Turkey season starts September 1 in Grant County. This allows hunters the opportunity to harvest turkeys on public lands before turkeys migrate to private lands.‌

The Philip W. Schneider Wildlife Area is open to the public and offers good bird hunting. Quail, both California and mountain, can be found in brushy and riparian areas throughout the county but hunters will have to work to flush them out of cover. Hunters will find grouse throughout the national forest with blue grouse on ridge tops, like Strawberry Mountain or Vinegar Hill, and ruffed along brushy creek bottoms, like Murderers Creek or Camp Creek. ‌

Harney County

Upland game bird hunting in Harney County is expected to be good, with chukar counts reaching levels not seen since 2016. This past winter we saw an increase in precipitation in the form of snow, followed by relatively high amounts of rain leading to good forage conditions for chicks. This appears to have resulted in fair production for most upland birds. ‌

Chukar- Trend surveys found 147.4 birds/10 miles which is a 102 percent increase compared to last year and a 96.3 percent increase from the 10-yar average. However, the increase over last year can be attributed to an increase in survey effort and is reflective of a doubling in sample size from last year. Production was only fair with 2.6 chicks/adult. Production appeared to be better in the Steens Mountain and Malheur River areas rather than in the far south end of the country. ‌

California quail- Trend surveys found 30.9 birds/mil which represents an 11 percent decrease from last year making this year 2.6 percent below the 10- year average. Production was fair with 2.7 chicks/adult, which is below the 10- year average and possibly attributed to harsher conditions this past winter. ‌

Pheasants- Most pheasant hunting opportunity is found on the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. No formal surveys are conducted, but observations suggest some pheasant production occurred on the refuge. Hunting opportunities will likely be similar to last year. ‌

Klamath and Lake counties

In Klamath and Lake counties, a late yet heavy winter coupled with a wet spring provided a positive vegetative response and worked to combat the ongoing drought. However, portions of the counties remain in lower levels of drought. A late snowfall in the end of June likely hurt early nests throughout Lake County, but the broods that did survive had large clutch sizes. ‌

Forest Grouse – The best areas for forest grouse are in the Cascades on Fremont-Winema National Forest or private timberland that's open to public access. Look for blue grouse along ridge tops in more open forest habitats in both Klamath and Lake counties, and ruffed grouse along riparian areas in the Cascade Mountains. Places in Lake County such as the Warner mountains and Winter Rim can hold blue grouse. There are very few ruffed grouse in Lake County.‌

Sage-Grouse – Seasons for sage-grouse throughout Lake County are offered through a controlled permit draw similar to big game tags. Warner and Beatys Butte both had stable numbers of birds this spring during lek counts, with reports of good brood success as well. Locating water sources with sage-grouse sign can be a great way to target birds for those lucky to draw a permit. Remember successful hunters are encouraged to submit wings to assist with demographic data that can be obtained from wings. ‌

Quail - In Lake County, California quail appeared to have had an okay year, with many early broods not surviving the late snow in June but later broods producing large numbers. Most birds occur on private lands throughout the valleys, but many riparian zones throughout the county can hold quail. Brood counts are high in most of the valleys within Lake Co. Klamath county brood observations indicate good nesting success. Remember there is a two-bird bag limit for mountain quail in eastern Oregon.‌

California quail production was fair on Summer Lake Wildlife Area and should provide good hunting opportunities. The northern portions of the wildlife area along Thousand Springs Lane (Lake Co. Road 4-17) up towards Lake View Lane (Lake Co. Road 4-18) and homestead sites such as the Turner Place are the best places to find quail. ‌

Dove - Mourning dove appeared to have had okay nesting success with a fair number of juveniles observed during this year's banding efforts and surveys. Hunters should focus around agricultural areas and forest openings where food sources are abundant. Ask permission to hunt private lands. Be sure of your identification before you hunt these birds, which are smaller and darker than the Eurasian collared dove. Identify this species and its habitat.‌

Eurasian collared doves are expanding throughout Lake and Klamath counties. These birds have no protections in Oregon, so there are no closed seasons or limits to their harvest. A hunting license is required on public land. Hunters should focus around agricultural areas and forest openings where food sources are abundant. Be sure of your identification before you hunt these birds, which are larger and lighter than mourning doves with a distinctive band around the back of the neck. Identify this species and its habitat.‌

Chukar - In Lake County, the best chukar hunting opportunities are along the desert rims such as Diablo, Coglan, Abert and Coleman in the southeast portion of the county. Many places that historically have held chukar in the county are holding water this year, which will help distribution and numbers. Most small canyons throughout the county can hold chukar. If it looks rocky and not like a place to hike, it has a good chance of holding chukar. While there are very few Hungarian partridge in Lake County, they're generally found in open rolling grasslands.‌

Turkey - Wild turkey are distributed throughout the southern portion of the Keno Unit. Several transplants and natural production have resulted in an increase of birds on the landscape in recent years available for the spring turkey season. There is no fall turkey season in Klamath or Lake County. In Lake County, turkey numbers are very low and many of the birds are located on private lands.‌

Pheasant - Wild pheasant numbers remain at extremely low levels. Unlimited Pheasants will be releasing pheasants at Klamath Wildlife Area and selected private lands open to the public. The Summer Lake Wildlife Area doesn't release pheasants, and wild pheasant populations on the wildlife area, already very low, appear to be down this year with very few broods having been observed this past summer.‌

Summer Lake Wildlife Area (Summer Lake WA Map)‌

California quail production within the wildlife area was good this year, while pheasant production looks to be average.‌

Malheur County

Last winter the county received above average precipitation and snow did not melt of mid-elevations tell mid-April. Timing and the amount moisture was good for nesting conditions resulting in good brood production of upland birds. Over all hunters should expect another year of good bird hunting across the county. Due to roads damaged by spring runoff not all routes were completed in their entirety. ‌

Chukar - Surveys on established routes yielded 48 birds per 10 miles, this is a 7 percent increase from last year and 4 percent above the 10-year average of 45 birds per 10 miles. Brood production was excellent at 13.5 chicks per brood, total number of brood classified was similar than last year. Most notable increase in chukar number was in the northern part of Malheur County. This is the second year in a row with good chukar production with incidental observations of good chukar numbers across the district. ‌

Pheasant - Surveys along established routes yielded 3.1 birds per 10 miles, a 4 percent increase in number of birds observed from the 3-year average and 42 percent below the 10-year average. Chick production was excellent at 4.6 chicks per brood. Hunting prospects will vary depending on the farming practices in the area where you have permission to hunt. The outlying areas around Willow Creek and Vale have higher bird numbers than areas closer to Ontario and Nyssa.‌

There are very few public lands in the area available to pheasant hunters and the few parcels that are available tend to get hunted daily. One option for private lands access is the Cow Hollow fundraiser to benefit the Cow Hollow Park.‌

California quail - Surveys on established routes yielded 52 quail per 10 miles, a 44 percent increase from last year and 31 percent above the 10-year average. Production was excellent at 11.8 chicks per brood with good production observed in range and agricultural lands.‌

Mid-Columbia counties (Hood, Wasco, Sherman)

Summer brood counts this year suggest production across upland bird species is consistent with or greater than 10-year averages. A moderately warm and dry spring benefitted upland birds and resulted in high chick survival. Summer weather has been dry and hot across the district. Multiple small fires have disrupted some key upland habitat, but overall fire activity has been below average. ‌

Pheasant numbers have been relatively low throughout the district over the past 10 years. This year's counts are in alignment with 10-year averages but are up significantly from 2022. In areas with suitable habitat, pheasant densities should be high and provide adequate opportunities to harvest a bird. Pheasants can be found in and around farmlands throughout Sherman and Wasco counties primarily on private lands. Habitat is a limiting factor for these birds within the district so focus on areas with adequate cover and water. There are opportunities to harvest pheasants on private lands enrolled in ODFW's UCAP program. Call The Dalles field office at 541-296-4628 to learn more about this program. There are some limited pheasant hunting opportunities on public land primarily near the breaks of the Deschutes and John Day River canyons. ‌

Chukar hunting is the premier upland hunting opportunity in the Mid-Columbia district. Summer surveys indicated that the hatch this year was good to excellent in most areas. Counts were slightly down from 2022 numbers, but production continues to be greater than the 10-year average. Hunters can find chukar on public and private lands throughout The John Day and Deschutes River canyons. Popular access points include the Macks Canyon access road in the Deschutes, the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area, and Cottonwood Canyon State Park in The John Day canyon. In early season water sources are a good place to start searching for birds. As the season progresses hunters will need to walk farther from access points to find birds. Later in the season snowfall can present an opportunity to find concentrations of birds where snow has melted or been blown off hillsides exposing bare ground. ‌

Gray partridge (Huns) counts increased this year and were double the 10-year average. They are almost exclusively a private land hunting opportunity. Common habitat for Huns includes grasslands, wheat stubble, and heavy cover adjacent to farmlands. Hunters can also try hunting UCAP properties within the district for Huns.‌

Surveys indicate California quail populations are stable with production being consistent with past year averages. Approximately 10 quail per every 10 miles were counted along established brood route surveys. Quail can be found throughout the district primarily in areas with heavy cover adjacent to riparian areas.‌

Sooty and ruffed grouse can be found in forested portions of Hood River and Wasco County. There are relatively few grouse of either species throughout the Mid-Columbia district and are mainly concentrated in the Hood unit and the western part of the White River unit. Both species were counted in low numbers during spring and summer surveys in the Mid-Columbia district.‌

Hunters can find mountain quail in forested portions of the district. They are rarely counted on surveys; therefore, it's difficult to report trends over time. Look for brushy areas that are two to 10 years post burn or timber harvest.‌

Since the mid-2000s turkey numbers had been increasing throughout all three counties in the Mid-Columbia district. However, over the last 5 years, turkey population growth has slowed. This year's turkey count was 50 percent of the 10-year average and down 14 percent from 2022. Overall turkey abundance appears to be down from previous years, but chick production has remained consistent at 5 chicks per brood. Adequate turkeys should be present to provide hunters with opportunities to harvest on both public and private land. ‌

Hunters should be aware that the Hood and White River Units are closed to fall turkey hunting, but the Maupin and Biggs units are included in the general Eastern Oregon season. For these units try hunting near canyon bottoms with good roosting trees. There are also private land hunting opportunities where suitable roosting trees and water sources are present. ‌

Morrow, Gilliam and Wheeler counties

Hunters should find it easier to find uplands birds this fall. This year's counts indicate that all upland bird species are up from last year's counts. Pheasant and Hungarian partridge numbers were up slightly but chukar and California quail were up dramatically. Hunters can access lands in the Upland Cooperative Access Program, and the Heppner Regulated Hunt Area (RHA) for upland bird hunting . Maps can be found here or by calling the Heppner District office. Also, see ODFW's Columbia Basin Bird Hunting Guide for additional information.‌

Umatilla County

Hunters should find it easier to find uplands birds this fall. This year's counts indicate that all upland bird species are up from last year's counts. Pheasant and Hungarian partridge numbers were up slightly but chukar and California quail were up dramatically. Hunters can access lands in the Upland Cooperative Access Program, and the Heppner Regulated Hunt Area (RHA) for upland bird hunting . Maps can be found here or by calling the Heppner District office. Also, see ODFW's Columbia Basin Bird Hunting Guide for additional information.‌

Union County

The best hunting opportunities are pheasant on the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area and forest grouse on national forests. Hunters should work ridge tops above 5,000 feet for blue grouse and stream corridors with heavy cover and water for ruffed grouse.

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area

The best hunting opportunities are pheasant on the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area and forest grouse on national forests. Hunters should work ridge tops above 5,000 feet for blue grouse and stream corridors with heavy cover and water for ruffed grouse.‌

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area‌

Ladd Marsh is open Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays Aug. 1 through Jan. 31.‌

Pheasant: A good spring and warm rains in the summer have produced an amazing batch of wild birds on Ladd Marsh! We are very optimistic about what we are seeing so far with large broods and birds spread across the entire wildlife area. Water is doing good across the area so that is allowing the birds to spread out and not have to concentrate. We are excited to see how the year unfolds but at this point we have high hopes!‌

Quail: It was a late hatch but a good one! Birds are being seen in areas that they haven't occupied in many years. Some very large coveys with over a dozen chicks per adult pair are common sights along many brush rows. With pressure I am sure the birds will recluse back to the edges of safety zones but for now they are very prevalent and spread across the entire area. ‌

Hunters can find upland game birds throughout Ladd Marsh providing ample hunting opportunity for all. Grassland, fencerows, brush and areas adjacent to agricultural fields are good locations to key on -- but don't overlook dry and receding wetlands. The wetland habitat provides more opportunity for pheasants than all the other areas combined.‌

All visitors, including hunters, must have in their possession a free daily permit to access the wildlife area. Permits will be available at several self-check-in stations at entry points and parking lots. All visitors are required to have an ODFW Wildlife Area Parking Permit to park on the wildlife area. Hunters receive a free parking permit with their hunting license. Parking permits are to be displayed on the vehicle dash. Learn more about ODFW's Wildlife Area Parking Permit Program.‌

Please call the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area with any questions 541-963-4954.‌

Wallowa County

Late winter and wet spring conditions did not seem to affect birds and were likely good for production. Moderate drought conditions throughout the summer may have impacted brood survival due to limited forage resources.‌

Surveys for blue and ruffed grouse indicate that blue grouse populations are still below the long-term average. Nevertheless, these species should provide fair opportunity during September and early October, especially in more heavily forested areas throughout Wallowa County.‌

Forest grouse hunters should be aware that there are restrictions on Manulife forestlands during fire season, please call the Manulife Information Line at (541) 962-2184 for updated closures and restrictions. ‌

Chukar remain abundant in more arid areas, specifically in patches of cheatgrass above the Imnaha River and on vegetated slopes along the Wenaha and Grande Ronde rivers.‌

Upland game bird hunting locations‌

See ODFW's Columbia Basin Bird Hunting Guide for how to hunt the 250K acres open to hunters in the area. Also see ODFW's Oregon Hunting Access Map and wildlife areas Summer Lake, Klamath, Lower Deschutes, Prineville Reservoir, Riverside and White River (Tygh Valley). Some private lands are accessible through the Access and Habitat program. Through ODFW's Upland Cooperative Access Program, hunters can access private land in Gilliam and Morrow counties in the Columbia Basin to hunt.

2023-24 eastern Oregon waterfowl forecast 

Baker County

Duck and goose hunting is expected to be similar to past years with a few resident birds available early in the season. More migrant birds will arrive later in the season and hunting should improve, especially in the Baker and Keating valleys. Almost all hunting is on private property, so be sure to ask permission before hunting. The Powder River from Baker City to Brownlee Reservoir offers the best waterfowl hunting.‌

Deschutes County

Duck and geese hunting should be average for local birds prior to freeze up. Canada geese numbers have increased over past survey years. Due to historically low water levels, some areas may be high and dry for hunting season and access to waterfowl will be difficult in some areas.‌

Hunters hunting the upper Deschutes River area should remember that Deschutes County Ordinance prohibits the discharge of firearms in portions of the river between Sunriver and Fall River, see map. ‌

Crook and Jefferson counties

Mallards and Canada geese are the most common waterfowl species in these counties. Hunting opportunities are limited due to the lack of wetlands, marshes, and access, especially on public lands – but hunters could try hunting the limited BLM along the Crooked River or the Prineville Reservoir. Most of the better hunting is associated with private agricultural lands where gaining access can be difficult.‌

Grant County

Grant County offers very limited waterfowl hunting opportunities due to lack of habitat -- it's mostly jump shooting on private land along the John Day River. There is some goose hunting along the John Day River on private lands. Be sure to seek permission before hunting.‌

Harney County

Typically hunting is best in late fall and early winter and on agricultural lands. Be sure to get landowner permission before hunting private lands. Portions of Malheur National Wildlife Area are open to waterfowl hunting (see the Game Bird Hunting Regulations) though hunting success and access to hunting areas is dependent on water levels in Malheur Lake. The North and South Malheur Lake Hunt Zones will both be closed to waterfowl hunting this year due to low water levels. ‌

Klamath County

Early season usually is best for local and early migrant ducks. Hunting prospects will depend on Pacific Northwest weather systems moving birds into and around Klamath County before freeze-up. Persistent drought conditions have affected water availability in some portions of the county.‌

Most goose hunting opportunities are for resident Canada geese, however there are some white-fronted, snow and Ross's geese staging in the Klamath Basin prior to continuing south. Goose hunting should improve later into the season with freezing conditions, which tend to concentrate geese near open water areas. Klamath Marsh and Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and state managed wildlife areas, in addition to private lands, offer ample hunting opportunities. Lower Klamath Lake NWR does not have water to support a waterfowl season this year.‌

The late goose season (Jan. 16-March 10, 2023) will again be open in all areas with the exception of Klamath Basin Refuges and Miller Island Unit at Klamath Wildlife Area. The hunt helps alleviate agricultural damage from large numbers of white-fronted, lesser snow and Ross' geese. ‌

Contact ODFW's Klamath Falls office at (541) 883-5732 for more information.‌

Klamath Wildlife Area – Miller Island Unit

The Miller Island Unit is open to hunting and public use daily through the end of September, except on the days reserved for youth waterfowl (Sept. 30-Oct. 1) and upland hunts (Sept. 16-17). Hunters should expect good hunting for mourning doves early in the season. Canada goose hunting during the September Canada goose season (Sept. 9-13) is usually slow.‌

Opening weekend for general waterfowl and pheasant hunting seasons is Oct. 14 (reservation required) and Oct. 15. Hunt days are then every following Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from Oct. 16 through the end of December and then open every day in January during authorized gamebird seasons. Upland bird hunting opens at 10 a.m. during waterfowl season (see regulations for details). After Oct. 20, pheasants will be released in subunits A, B, and C of the Miller Island Unit. ‌

A daily hunting permit is required, and hunters shall be in possession of permit while in the field. Check out is required. Daily hunt permits are available at the check station located on the North side of Miller Island Rd. just west of the railroad tracks.‌

Early season is usually best for local and early migrant birds, and hunters can expect to find abundant numbers of gadwalls, northern pintail, green-winged teal and mallards on the wildlife area.‌

Goose hunting should improve later in the season with geese using frozen ponds for loafing and the small grain fields for forage.‌

There is a special youth waterfowl and upland bird hunt on Oct. 28, the Miller Island Unit is open only to hunters aged 17 and younger. Hunt hours are the same as during the general season. Hunters must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older, who may not hunt. Reservations are not required for this hunt. See page 26 of the Oregon Game Bird Regulations.‌

Currently water availability for opening weekend and the first part of the zone 2 seasons are still unknown. A better idea of wetland conditions (water levels) will be known by the youth waterfowl hunt weekend. If there is water available for opening weekend, waterfowl hunting conditions should be good. ‌

Contact ODFW's Klamath Wildlife Area at (541)883-5732 for more information.‌

Lake County

Summer Lake Wildlife Area (Summer Lake WA Map)

Over 60 percent of this almost 19,000-acre area is open for game bird hunting during authorized seasons. Hunting is permitted 7 days per week and a free daily hunting permit is required. Hunting permits are available at Headquarters. Hunters should be aware the wildlife area is not open during the September Canada goose season.‌

In most years, a fair number of mourning doves can be found early in September but they typically move south once cooler fall weather conditions arrive. The best areas to hunt on the wildlife area are from Thousand Spring Lane (Lake Co. Rd. 4-17) north toward Lake View Lane (4-18) and old homestead sites such as the Turner Place.‌

Waterfowl hunting conditions should be good across most of the wildlife area. Water supplies have been good, but some areas may be slow to flood-up due to growing season management actions. ‌

The early portion of the waterfowl season is usually best for local and early migrant birds, and hunters can expect to find abundant dabbling ducks such as green-winged teal, gadwall, shoveler, wigeon, pintail and mallards on the wildlife area. Waterfowl production was average this year with Mallard numbers being OK, but good numbers of Canada goose, gadwall and cinnamon teal broods being observed throughout summer. ‌

Regular season goose hunting should be fair for locally produced Canada geese. Canada goose hunting should improve later in the season with freezing conditions, which tend to concentrate geese near open water. To reduce harvest pressure on the rarer Tule white-fronted goose, the daily bag limit in Lake County is one. ‌

Most snow geese staging at Summer Lake Wildlife Area are from Wrangel Island, Russia. Production this year is unknown, at this time, but the population has been on a recent upward trend. Typically, good production results in favorable hunting success due to the large number of juveniles. When production is low, hunting for the more wary adults is difficult.‌

A large portion of this population is either wintering in NW Washington/SW British Columbia, along the Columbia River or staying on northern (Alberta) staging grounds until late in the fall when they are pushed south by winter weather. Unfortunately, these geese migrating out of Canada are now by bypassing traditional staging areas such as Summer Lake on their way to California.‌

Closure: Access to hunting areas south of Thousand Springs Lane (Lake Co. Rd 4-17, except the Foster Place) will be prohibited from Oct. 01 until 4:00 am on opening day (Oct. 14). This seven-day closure will reduce disturbance to staging waterfowl and improve hunter success. Campgrounds and open roads will remain available for use.‌

Malheur County

Many of the desert ponds dried up this summer because of mild winter conditions and very little precipitation, but those ponds that held water through the summer had fair duck and goose production. Desert ponds are also a good opportunity for early season jump shooting. Jordan Valley provides an excellent opportunity for September Canada goose hunting. Hunters need to get permission to hunt private lands.‌

Fair waterfowl hunting is available in the Treasure Valley (agricultural areas near the Snake River in the vicinity of Ontario, Adrian and Nyssa) most of the season, and improves significantly during cold weather events. Cold weather events reduce open water, concentrating birds and increasing the time spent foraging. Field hunting for both geese and ducks can be good for hunters willing to spend the time and effort to secure access to private land.‌

Mid-Columbia District (Wasco, Sherman and Hood Counties)

Duck hunting in this district is mostly jump shooting on private lands. There are also limited opportunities to setup or jump shoot along the waters of the Columbia River. Usually, the times of best success are early in the season for local birds or later in the season after the first push of colder weather. ‌

Best access to the Columbia is by boat or at limited locations where the public can legally cross railroad tracks. For more information contact ODFW in The Dalles at 541-296-4628. Note that hunting is not allowed on most Corps of Engineers property.‌

Goose hunting opportunities in wheat fields should be good later in the season with most access via private land. Some private land access can be found through Upland Cooperative Access Program lands in Sherman County, but scouting is key as birds often change their flight paths in this area. ‌

Umatilla and Morrow counties

Hunting prospects depend on weather conditions. If the region does not experience a real winter, many of the northern migrants will stay in Washington. The best hunting is usually later in the season (late November) after some weather pushes birds down northern areas. The Columbia River is usually the best opportunity for hunters on public land, but those who can access irrigated circles in northern Morrow County usually get good goose hunting.‌

Habitat in the Columbia Basin still supports large numbers of wintering Canada geese and the number of snow geese wintering in this area has greatly increased in recent years. Waterfowl hunters should not forget about the Columbia Basin Wildlife Areas (Power City, Irrigon, Coyote Springs, Willow Creek). Food crops were planted and ponds have been enhanced, all of which will make conditions better for waterfowl hunting.‌

The Columbia basin wildlife areas typically start seeing ducks arrive in waves. The first wave will include teal headed south, some years the teal have come and gone before the hunting season starts. In mild years the migration may be a little late allowing some teal hunting opportunity. Shortly after that other puddle ducks will start showing up in greater numbers. With the removal of cattails and planting food plots, the wildlife areas are seeing more attention from mallards, gadwall, pintail and small numbers of wood ducks. The largest numbers of mallards seen on the wildlife areas typically occurs during the last few weeks of season. Waterfowl hunting on the wildlife areas are best during very windy conditions when ducks get blown off the Columbia River. ‌

Union County

Duck and goose hunting is expected to be similar to last year. Dry conditions have left fewer broods overall. Early water could make exceptional waterfowl hunting at the start of the season. Limited public lands make Union County difficult to find waterfowl hunting opportunities. Ladd Marsh can be great waterfowl hunting at certain times throughout the season. ‌

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area‌

Well, we're all hoping for significant precipitation in the near future. If it doesn't come soon, our available huntable water is going to be minimal. We have a couple ponds on the area that are still holding water and a good number of birds but they are shrinking by the day. ‌

Overall duck production in our area seems to be down -- and one can probably attribute that to the weather. Geese seemed to fair well as we caught about 100 this spring. Our bander has done great and put well over 1,000 bands on ducks but the majority have been adults, which doesn't give a lot of hope of juvenile survival this year. Mallards are taking the top spot by a vast majority but some random birds are being seen around the area. Last week a canvasback was around, which is very rare for us out here! That said, cross your fingers for precipitation and check back, or call for water updates as the season gets closer!‌

Hunters should call the office at 541 963 4954 to get a current update on water levels or plan to make a trip out on one of the open days prior to the hunting season to scout out potential locations. ‌

All visitors including hunters must have in their possession a free daily permit to access the wildlife area. Permits are available at several self-check-in stations at entry points and parking lots. The Wildlife Area is closed 10 p.m. - 4 a.m. daily. There is no camping on the wildlife area. Both of these rules include area parking lots. Violators will be asked to leave and may be cited.‌

Wallowa County

Waterfowl hunting should be similar to previous few years. Expect good hunting opportunities later in the fall and early winter when migrating birds arrive. The few resident geese Canada geese in the district have fared well, too. Most hunting is decoy hunting in agricultural fields, and jump shooting irrigation ditches so be sure to get landowner permission before hunting.‌

Waterfowl hunting locations

Explore bird hunting locations using ODFW's Oregon Hunting Access Map. ODFW's Summer Lake and Klamath wildlife areas are major winter staging areas for waterfowl and provide great hunting opportunities. Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area provides opportunities in northeast Oregon. Some private lands are accessible through the Access and Habitat program. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.‌

2023-24 western Oregon upland game bird forecast 

Fee pheasant hunting at wildlife areas

ODFW stocks pheasants at these western Oregon wildlife areas – a region where there are few natural birds. To hunt, you need a license, upland bird validation, HIP validation and $25 western Oregon fee pheasant permit, which allows you to harvest two birds. Still not convinced? Check out these 7 reasons to consider a fee pheasant hunt. ‌

• E.E. Wilson, Monmouth: Sept. 25-Oct. 31
• Fern Ridge, Eugene: Sept. 11-Oct. 8 (East and West Coyote, Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon Units)
• Sauvie Island, Portland: Sept. 18-Oct. 1 (Eastside Unit)
• Denman, Central Point: Sept. 18-Oct. 6

Coos County

Weather conditions in spring and early summer can be a primary driver for upland bird chick survival and chick survival tends to drive overall abundance of birds in local populations. This spring was very wet and winter-like. Those conditions extended well into the nesting season for the second year in a row. These conditions were not likely to be positive for the survival of chicks. Since this is the second year in a row with what appears to be poor brood survival, upland bird hunting in general may be more difficult than in the recent past.‌

Biologists in Coos County conduct surveys of upland birds annually. This year broods were low in numbers and the size of the broods found seems to be low. However, persistent hunters will find upland birds if they can determine what the birds are focusing on for feed. ‌

Grouse hunters should hunt the usual areas, which are closed roads with grass and clover growing on them and riparian areas with brushy cover. Grouse in the Coast Range can be somewhat randomly distributed throughout a variety of habitats. At any given time, birds will be drawn to some specific food resource and bird location can change based on the availability of the food. ‌

As for quail, hunters will find the best mountain quail hunting near ridge tops, rocky outcroppings on hillsides and around the periphery of clear-cuts.‌

California quail (aka valley quail) are generally found near private agricultural lands for the most part. Due to increased timber harvest in recent years, which creates early serial habitats, California quail are being seen farther from agricultural lands this year than in the past. Hunters may find opportunities to hunt California quail in clearcuts in the vicinity of agricultural fields as opposed to only finding them in the agricultural settings.‌

Wild turkey populations have been increasing steadily for the past several years. As with the other upland birds, brood survival looks a little low this year due to the spring weather. Hunters will find most turkeys in and around private agricultural lands, which is their traditional habitat choice. ‌

However, one of the best ways to locate wild turkeys is to cruise forest roads looking for tracks, droppings and feathers. With the apparent expansion of turkeys locally, searching for birds in forest lands adjacent to agricultural lands is worth the time spent. ‌

Douglas County

Douglas County hunters should see another good year for mountain and California quail. Surveys showed brood production/survival was above average. At this time, it appears there was good brood survival with plenty of large broods being encountered the last few weeks. ‌

Forest grouse production was down again this year, counts were below the five-year average for the county. Number of chicks per hen was low but hunters should find some success in the areas with good habitat.‌

California quail will be difficult for most hunters to focus on because they are primarily found on low elevation private property. Sometimes they can be found on industrial timber property near agricultural areas. Make sure you know the property ownership and if they allow access.‌

Mountain quail hunters should be targeting open habitats at mid-elevations. Clear-cuts around 3-6 years old provide great habitat on industrial timber property. On federal ground be looking for natural openings and areas with shrubs or low growing vegetation in thins, burns and powerlines.‌

Blue grouse hunting is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partially open timber stands, edges and ridgetops.‌

Ruffed grouse can be found near creeks and overgrown roads mostly at mid-elevations of both the Cascades and Coast ranges. ‌

Check local fire restrictions and closures before going hunting for the first couple months, the county is under drought conditions and high fire danger. As of this writing, almost all private industrial timber lands are closed.‌

Jackson, Josephine and Curry counties

Trend surveys suggest mountain quail numbers are up from last year. Ruffed grouse and sooty grouse numbers both appear to have increased slightly as well this year. ‌

As always turkey numbers are very good in southern Oregon and are likely on the increase in many areas in Jackson and Josephine counties. This year the fall turkey season will begin on Sept. 1, it still remains one bird per tag with a season limit of two tags.‌

Mountain quail are widely distributed throughout this district and are usually found near brush fields, old clear-cuts, and at higher elevations surrounded by manzanita and scree. Ruffed grouse are found in middle elevation mixed conifer and deciduous forests, near water sources, whereas Sooty grouse prefer higher elevation habitat consisting of a mix of large conifer trees, old growth timber, and meadows. Some dove hunting is available on the Denman Wildlife Area in agricultural fields or in dry brushy areas, however harvest success drops quickly after the first few days of the season or after the first colder temperatures arrive on the valley floor. Band-tailed pigeons are usually found at high elevations feeding on elderberries or acorns. They are a shy bird and can provide a more challenging hunt.‌

Hunters should be aware of fire season closures on private timber lands in Jackson, Josephine and Curry counties. Check the latest fire closure information before heading out into the field. The Denman Wildlife Area will host a Youth Pheasant Hunt on Sept. 16 and 17, and a Fee Pheasant Hunt from Sept. 18-Oct. 6. Birds will be stocked randomly during this period and the Denman Wildlife Area does not provide a stocking calendar for pheasant release. Hunters new to hunting the wildlife area are encouraged to call Clayton Barber (Denman Wildlife Area Manager) at 541-857-2397.‌

Mid-Coast (Lincoln and western Lane counties)

The Mid-Coast experienced a warm spring and plentiful berry crop. This should lead to a good survival rate of upland game birds and an average hunting season. Many different game bird species (quail, grouse, band-tailed pigeons) all use berries as an important food source.‌

Remember to check the fire levels of the area you are hunting and take precautions to not cause wildfires. See the Oregon Department of Forestry's website for more information.‌

Multiple large coveys of quail have been seen throughout the Mid-Coast. Mountain and California quail can be found in brushy clear cuts along gravel roads. Pay particular attention to areas that hold berry plants. However, quail become hard to find once the fall rains begin.‌

Grouse species most likely also benefitted from the large berry crop. Ruffed and sooty grouse can often be found along gravel forest roads in mature timber stands. Search for ruffed grouse in riparian areas and lower elevations and sooty grouse at high elevations and ridgelines. Both birds are most active in the early mornings and late evenings.‌

Band-tailed pigeons can typically be found along mineral springs and in thick riparian areas that hold berries, especially elderberries. Keep in mind that band-tailed pigeons are considered migratory birds and not upland game birds, check the ODFW Game Bird Regulations for more information.‌

North Coast (Clatsop and Tillamook counties)

Ruffed grouse, sooty (blue) grouse and mountain quail are present in the northern coast range in moderate densities. This season is likely to be average to good for sooty and ruffed grouse with above average numbers of mountain quail. We had a fairly dry spring which likely led to average to good survival for early broods. Mountain quail readily raise multiple broods and dry conditions for much of the summer usually lead to good numbers.‌

Ruffed grouse are usually found along riparian areas and mid-slopes, while sooty grouse prefer high-elevation ridges. Mountain quail frequent brushy clear-cuts, especially those along south- and west-facing slopes.‌

North Willamette (Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Columbia, Yamhill and Marion counties)

Winter this last year was relatively long and extended into the beginning of typical gamebird nesting season. This may have resulted in slightly worse hatching conditions for forest grouse or delayed nesting. Overall, these conditions should not result in dramatic population-level effects.‌

The dry and hot conditions Oregon is currently experiencing might further concentrate birds around water sources or at slightly higher elevations than where they are normally found. ‌

Scattered flocks of band-tailed pigeons can be found when walking roads in conifer forest but can also be found in association with oak woodlands. If you're thinking of hunting band-tailed pigeon for the first time, be mindful of the short season window and the requirement of a band-tailed pigeon permit. ‌

Sooty grouse detections during spring surveys across the North Willamette Watershed were similar to last year. Access was a major hurdle to many hunters for the last several years, and early season hunting will likely be impacted by closures on private timber lands due to fire danger and closures in some national forest lands due to the continued impacts of the 2020 wildfires.‌

Later in the season as extreme fire conditions wane, more private lands should be available for access and the national forest has begun to open areas impacted by the 2020 wildfires for public access. Check the respective landowner's websites for up-to-date access information.‌

Hunters looking to harvest both ruffed and sooty (blue) grouse should concentrate their efforts in the Cascade Mountains for the best chance of success. Ruffed grouse prefer the brushy cover along riparian areas and sooty grouse can be found on the higher elevation ridgelines. ‌

An effective hunting strategy is hiking along ridgelines or open slopes near timber and bodies of water in the early morning or late evening, since grouse typically spend the warm afternoon hours in trees high off the ground.‌

Mountain quail are commonly found in or around 2 to 5-year-old clear-cuts in the coastal mountains, but populations are less robust in the northern coast range. Covering lots of ground in newer clear-cuts with a well-trained dog should help hunters find a few scattered coveys of mountain quail.‌

The 2020 wildfires that burned in the Cascades may have improved mountain quail numbers in burned areas. California quail are abundant on agricultural lands and timber lands.‌

Turkey hunting in much of the North Willamette area is extremely limited with only a few small, scattered flocks. However, turkey populations in the southwest portion of the district continue to slowly increase, although they are still very small compared to other areas of the state.‌

Most turkey hunting opportunities are on private land and hunters will need to secure permission to hunt well before the season opens. ODFW's Hunt by Reservation program is a valuable resource for connecting with private landowners that may allow hunters on their properties.

South Willamette (Marion, Polk, Linn, Lane and Benton counties)

Blue grouse and ruffed grouse are relatively common in forest habitat. California quail are common on the valley floor but most hunting occurs on private lands and hunters will need to obtain permission from landowners. The north and central Cascades are generally not great mountain quail areas but birds can be found in some of the brushy areas created by clear-cut logging or wildfires.‌

The prolonged cold, wet spring likely resulted in poor chick survival this year. Upland game birds that attempted secondary clutches may provide some relief, but the juveniles may be smaller in size early in the season compared to previous years.‌

Upland game bird hunting locations

Explore Oregon's Hunting Access Map for bird hunting locations; use the upland bird range map. ODFW's wildlife areas Sauvie Island (Portland), EE Wilson (Monmouth), Fern Ridge (Eugene) and Denman (Central Point) offer bird hunting; see regulations for details. Some industrial private forest lands are accessible through the Access and Habitat Program; the Jackson TMA has grouse and quail; and the new East Lane TMA offers good grouse hunting opportunities. National forestland and some state forests also offer bird hunting opportunities. Much opportunity in the region is on private properties; hunters will need to gain permission.‌

2023-24 western Oregon waterfowl forecast 

Coos County

Based on trapping efforts for banding and general observations by biologists around Coos County, it appears duck and goose brood may not have done as well this year as some past years. However, the bulk of waterfowl that will be here for waterfowl season are migrants from other parts of the Pacific Flyway. So, once these birds arrive in the county hunting should be at least average. This is due to better reproductive success farther north. ‌

Hunters should expect plentiful hunting opportunities this season in coastal bays. Normally, as waterfowl begin their southward migration those that arrive early on the Oregon Coast will concentrate in the lower portions of bays and estuaries, generally in saltwater. These birds will begin to disperse into inland valleys as increasing rain inundates agricultural fields later in the season. ‌

Since the weather forecast is for an El Nino condition to settle into the Pacific Northwest, the fall rain could come later into the fall. This means hunting in the bays may be productive for a more extended time this fall. ‌

The entire Coquille Valley Wildlife Area is open to public access. After several years of habitat restoration on the Winter Lake tract, waterfowl numbers are beginning to increase as local ducks and geese discover these new food sources. As fall precipitation inundates fields with water, and more waterfowl migrate in to the county, there should be good hunting in late fall on CVWA.‌

Hunters need to be aware there are channels throughout the Winter Lake tract that have very steep sides and at high tide may be deep enough to go over chest waders. Also, as the tide changes there may be a current in the channels that could make crossing them challenging. Hunters should wear PDFs when crossing the channels or, in most cases, try not to cross the channels at all. ‌

These channels are part of a habitat improvement project designed to establish an intertidal connection between Coquille River and the Winter Lake tract.‌

Hunters who want to hunt CVWA need to fill out a permit daily. Permits are available at the access point located along North Bank Road. Each hunter must fill out their own permit. Please do not take more than one permit per hunter from the box.‌

The Ni'Les-tun and Bandon Marsh Units of the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge near Bandon will have areas open for waterfowl hunting. Waterfowl numbers in these areas can be quite good early in the season.‌

Geese will concentrate on private pastures around river valleys. Canada goose populations have been growing over the past few years, although to a lesser extent this year. Good goose hunting can be found in most of the county. The key to a successful hunt is prior scouting for areas where geese are going to feed or rest.‌

Douglas County

Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters are reminded to get landowner permission before hunting. Many agricultural landowners along the valley floor are seeing significant damage to fields from increases in Canada goose populations over the recent years. Many landowners and managers have been welcoming hunters to help them reduce this damage. Plat-I Reservoir, Ben Irving Reservoir and Galesville Reservoir have areas set aside for hunting waterfowl. Hunters need to be familiar with Douglas County and Sutherlin Water Control District regulations for access times and watercraft use on these reservoirs. The Umpqua River and its tributaries also offer great waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley.‌

Jackson, Josephine and Curry counties

Hunting success will depend on local weather and water conditions, and on weather conditions to the north. Storm systems in northern Oregon and Washington push birds south to our area. Waterfowl hunting on the Denman Wildlife Area is usually best during December and January.‌

Local Canada geese should be very abundant for the September goose season and throughout the general season. The Rogue River is a good place to hunt during the September goose season as well as on the Hall Tract of the Denman Wildlife Area.‌

The Denman Wildlife Area is dependent on rain to flood fields, and hunters can call 541-857-2397 to check on the status of flooding. Hunters should remember that after Nov. 1 the Hall Tract of the DWA is only open on Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The Military Slough and Modoc Units are open all days of the general season.‌

North and Mid-Coast (Clatsop, Tillamook and Lincoln counties)

Early duck hunting should be fair to good on coastal bays. A mix of ducks (mainly wigeon, pintails, mallards and divers) should be available in larger north and mid-coast estuaries, such as the lower Columbia River and Tillamook, Nestucca, Nehalem, Siletz, Alsea, and Siuslaw Bays. ‌

In recent years, the numbers of ducks on these estuaries tends to be greater earlier in the season, especially teal, with numbers diminishing by December. However, numbers and distribution can change on a yearly basis and success can be good in these areas into January.‌

With the onset of storms comes the best waterfowl hunting on the coast. Stormy weather moves birds off the bays and into more sheltered waters where they can be hunted more effectively. However, when there is too much rain, birds move into agricultural areas where hunting cover tends to be limited or nonexistent.‌

Another excellent time to hunt the coast is during cold spells when some inland waters are ice-covered.‌

Goose hunters, don't forget to purchase your annual NW goose permit. Goose hunting should be good all along the north coast during the September goose season as production of local geese (westerns) was good again this year. Migratory geese should also be available in high numbers for hunters during the traditional NW Permit Goose seasons. On the mid-coast, opportunities for goose hunting are limited to the estuaries or private agricultural land. ‌

North Willamette (Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Columbia, Yamhill and Marion counties)

The drought will have an impact on the productivity of early season waterfowl hunting. Resident birds will support early season hunting opportunities where water is still being held, but once those birds become wary there may be a lull until birds start flying south. Migrating waterfowl will also be impacted by drought conditions both in terms of water availability and available forage. If there aren't adequate places to forage then those flying south may continue south without stopping very long. ‌

Regardless of the year finding locations to hunt in the North Willamette is difficult without access to private lands. Hunters without this access should explore opportunities to hunt waterfowl along the Willamette and Columbia rivers. Multiple hunting opportunities along the Willamette River can be located in the Oregon State Parks and Oregon State Marine Board's Willamette River Recreation Guide. The majority of these sites are only accessible by boat but there are several locations that can be reached from local roadways.‌

Hunters should review the Oregon Department of State Lands website for information concerning the use of Oregon's waterways and the land underlying and adjacent to them. You will additional information concerning waterfowl hunting can be found in the state and federal refuge areas regulations in the Oregon Game Bird Regulations.‌

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area‌

Waterfowl hunting on Sauvie Island Wildlife Area should be average this year with the North American duck population only being slightly up. The best hunting is usually during colder weather when birds are pushed south from Alaska and Canada.‌

The Wildlife Area's crop production was pitiful this year because of no summer rains. All food crop operations on the Wildlife Area are dryland farming. All hunt units will have some flooded areas on opening day of general waterfowl season. Ongoing work on wetland and food resources on the wildlife area will continue to improve hunting in future years.‌

The Northwest Permit Goose Season will be open this year on the Wildlife Area, but only for white geese (Ross and snow). Dark goose hunting will remain closed on Sauvie Island Wildlife Area except for the September season.‌

If you are new to waterfowl hunting on Sauvie Island, see our Beginners Guide to Waterfowl Hunting on Sauvie Island.‌

If you're an old hand at Sauvie but still get frustrated with your draw results, see Sauvie Island WA waterfowl hunts: Three ways to increase your draw odds.‌

Special youth waterfowl hunts for hunters age 17 and younger Sept 30 – Oct 1, Oct. 28, Nov. 12, Dec. 9 and 28 and Jan. 13, 2024. See the Game Bird Regulations for details.‌

South Willamette (Marion, Polk, Linn, Lane and Benton counties)

Prospects for waterfowl hunting will be good if the district sees some rain to flood feeding areas when the birds come down from the north. The Willamette River offers good duck hunting for those with the proper boat. Goose hunting occurs throughout the valley but hunters will want to obtain permission to hunt private lands or hunt properties enrolled in the Open Field Program that allow access for goose hunting. A map of those properties can be found at www.OregonHuntingMap.com or at the ODFW website.‌

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area‌

We expect waterfowl hunting success to be above average this year. Late spring rains allowed Fern Ridge Reservoir to reach capacity so water is available and will be pumped for opening day. ore acres of habitat should be available for migrating ducks and hunters alike.‌

We did not plant any corn this year. The late spring rains delayed the crop planting date until July 18, which didn't allow enough time for corn to mature and harden prior to the anticipated date of the first fall rains. We chose to plant faster maturing millet, sudangrass and buckwheat instead. Some cells where native vegetation was thriving and producing quality feed for waterfowl were not farmed.‌

We added three more hunting blinds to our South Coyote Unit for this season. The South Coyote Unit is part of our reservation hunt so you must first apply and successfully draw an opportunity or participate in our stand-by drawing. We don't have water pumping abilities for our South Coyote Unit so hunters will likely see more success once fall rains fill those wetlands. Look for a newly revised reservation hunt map soon. ‌

Please contact FRWA headquarters at 541-935-2591 for more details and other information.‌

EE Wilson Wildlife Area‌

The wildlife area can be productive for duck hunting later in the season, as winter rains fill wildlife area ponds. In October, the area has little water available for duck hunting and disturbance from the fee pheasant hunt likely reduces waterfowl use of the available wetlands.‌

Waterfowl hunting locations

Sauvie Island (Portland), EE Wilson (Monmouth), Denman Wildlife Area (near Central Point) and Fern Ridge (Eugene) wildlife areas offer bird hunting. On the North Coast you can hunt around estuaries on the coast and in the lower Columbia River; call ODFW's Tillamook Office for more information or try ODF for a map that shows public and private lands. The Willamette River has some decoy and drifting opportunities; see the Oregon Department of State Lands website.‌