Hunter's plan for Big Game success

Hunt preparation

Attend an ODFW Hunter Recruitment Program workshop or skills class to up your Big Game hunting success. Register now

Get ready – start hiking in your hunt area with a full pack, break in your boots and narrow down your list of needed gear to lighten the load.

Learn to call – learn how to use tubes, rattles and calls.

Purchase your license and tags prior to the deadline.

Practice and attend Sight-in days at your local range.

Start scouting – map and pin while hiking through your hunt area, spotting vital resources including food, water and cover. Look for signs of game – trails, tracks, scat.

Good advice

Whenever you're venturing into the backcountry, even for a day, you should be prepared to deal with minor injuries, getting lost and unexpected changes in the weather. You will also need tools to field dress and carry out your harvest.

• Check the weather forecast.
• Look up access restrictions.
• Pack the essentials for outdoor survival.
• Let someone know where you're going and when to expect your return.
• Replace batteries and charge on the way.

Follow us on social media or get our weekly Recreation Report to learn about hunting opportunities, important deadlines, tips and more.

Pack it up

Rules and safety

• License/ tags/ hunter education card (if under age 18)
• Hunting regulations
• Blaze orange clothing (encouraged for all; required if under 18)
• First aid kit
• Whistle
• Small mirror
• Cell phone

Navigation

• Maps
• GPS - phone apps
• Compass

Hunt Essentials

• Firearm/ammunition
• Bow/arrows
• Game calls
• Binoculars/spotting scope/range finder

Personal Essentials

• At least two quarts of water
• Food for at least one day
• Water filter and/or water purification tablets
• Shelter – tarp, tent
• Lightweight sleeping bag
• Warm clothes
• Flashlight/headlamp and extra batteries

Pack it out

Field dressing and other tools

• Knives/sharpening tool
• Game bags
• Nitrile or similar gloves
• 550 paracord or similar rope
• Multi-tool
• Orange flagging ribbon – use to tag harvest, *high visibility on carry out for other hunters, and trail marking

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