Deer hunters

ODFW Articles

Need to figure out controlled hunts, find a place to clam, learn how to fish or get directions to a wildlife area? We've got information on all that and more, straight from ODFW biologists and other accomplished hunters, anglers and wildlife watchers. 

Header image by Dave Budeau

Elk hunt
Where to hunt big game

All funds raised by deer and elk auction and raffle tags go directly to the Access and Habitat Program...

A black bear walks through tall brush.
How to hunt big game

Oregon offers spring and fall bear hunting seasons. Fall bear is an entirely general season hunt, while spring season is...

image of an archery hunter with a large male mule deer
Where to hunt big game

Here you’ll find links to population, harvest and point summary reports that can help you decide what hunts to apply...

Where to hunt big game

Here you will find maps to help determine public vs. private land, wildlife management unit and controlled hunt boundaries, travel management...

How to hunt big game
We hope this survey can help us understand what you need to know about CWD and your role in limiting its spread.
image of two deer hunters on a ridge scanning countryside
Where to hunt big game

Didn't draw a big game tag this year? Here are some other ways to have a great hunting season.

white-tailed deer hunt
How to hunt big game

See the latest and historic data about big game hunting statistics for different hunts. 

how to hunt

Late summer and early fall is wildfire season in Oregon and access to the placed you like to hunt, fish or...

Rick Swart takes aim at an elk from his perch on the rim above Camp Creek in Northeast Oregon.
How to hunt big game

Hunters know how easy it is to get focused on taking “the shot.” But a lot of planning and preparation...

The following step-by-step guide will walk you through the new online registration system. With ODFW’s electronic licensing system, you can...

Boys pheasant hunt
Opportunity for kids

Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows youth 9 through 15 years of age to hunt without first passing an approved hunter education...

How to fish

Find links to the current fishing and hunting regulations, as well as in-season regulation updates.

A growing number of people take to the woods in winter, looking for antlers that have been shed by Oregon’s deer...

Mountain Goat
Buying a license or permit

Step-by-step directions for applying for a controlled hunt online and how to change your hunt choices. The deadline to apply...

Hunter glassing for elk on a snowy ridgetop
how to hunt

Looking for the perfect gift for the hunter on your holiday list? We’ve asked some ODFW staff, all avid hunters...

Hunter education
How to hunt big game

Learning to hunt is an adventure that can last a lifetime, and ODFW Hunter Education is a great way to...

Image of big game hunter scouting terrain with binoculars
How to hunt big game

Desktop scouting, trail cameras and 5 other scouting tips

boys
Buying a license or permit

Steps for getting a duplicate hunter education card.

Image of an adult cougar snarling
Tips for avoiding problems

Cougars currently occupy most of the available cougar habitat in the state and are expanding into lower quality habitats that...

image of two bicyclists stopping to allow a herd of elk to cross the road
wildlife viewing

In late September, deer and elk begin their annual migration to wintering grounds, and often have to cross roads and...

Three female hunters with their dogs, holding pheasants in front of access sign
Where to hunt big game

Public access to lands suitable to hunt can be a challenge. That's why we have the Oregon Hunting
Access Map to help...

Cougar
How to hunt big game

Cougar season and hunting information, including information about cougar conflict target areas.


Resuming in 2022, successful cougar hunters must appear...

How-to and where-to tips for beginners
Hunters
How to hunt big game

Check out the latest point summary reports for all big game, and use the information to strategize
while deciding which...