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

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how to buy a license or permit

Some of ODFW's smaller field offices are not staffed to sell licenses to the public. However, staff at our larger...

Buying a license or permit

Buy licenses & tags online and print them immediately from any printer—or choose electronic tagging to display your documents and...

image of two spaniel dogs (one a pup) retrieving a duck
How to hunt game birds

Rules for permits and releasing birds, pursuit seasons and competitive dog trials. 

Game Bird Release Permit.

a display of fly-fishing flies
How to fish

If you’re just getting started fishing, or you want to try a new kind of fishing, you’ll need a rod...

Hunters and anglers can visit their local ODFW licensed agent to purchase licenses, tags and other documents. Once documents are...

image of an angler holding a 32-inch rainbow trout
How to fish

You can purchase an Oregon fishing license online or at an ODFW licensed vendor. Here are step-by-step directions for purchasing...

2606_steens_antelope_hunt_paul_craig_odfw

Pioneer and other licenses are available for senior hunters and anglers at a reduced cost.

ODFW wants to make sure our uniformed service members are given the opportunity to participate in the outdoor recreation Oregon has...

A mom helps her daughter hold a fishing pole at Canby Pond.
Where to fish

On Free Fishing Weekends, you don't need a license to fish, crab or clam anywhere in Oregon. That's no license...

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Education
Plus, a look at all the classes we offer

Learn to fish, hunt, shoot or cast at an ODFW workshop or event, offered year round throughout the state. You'll...

ODFW headquarters in Salem
Commission materials have moved to MyODFW.com: Commission materials have a new look. ODFW is working to transition its older odfw.com...
ODFW headquarters in Salem
Commission materials have moved to MyODFW.com: Commission materials have a new look. ODFW is working to transition its older odfw.com...
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) of Deer, Elk and Moose

CWD is a fatal neurologic disease that has been detected in deer, elk, and moose in numerous states and Canadian...

Deer hunter

If you bought a tag you must report, even if you weren't successful or didn't hunt. Hunters have until January 31 (or...

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

Here you’ll find links to game population, harvest statistics and point summary reports that can help you decide on choosing...

Where to fish

These updated rules were adopted after the current regulation booklet was printed, and supersede those printed regulations. Always check for...

Information gleaned from the teeth of harvested black-tail deer will help ODFW biologists learn more about the deer population.

Duck decoys _Mud Lake SIWA

Learning where hunters have been successful in the past may help increase your chances of being successful in the future.

Spotted fawn
living with wildlife
Regulating harvest, health, and enhancement of wildlife populations

Young animals are rarely orphaned, so leave them where you find them. Chances are good mom is nearby, just waiting

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image of two bicyclists stopping to allow a herd of elk to cross the road
Regulating harvest, health, and enhancement of wildlife populations

It is legal to salvage meat from deer and elk struck by vehicles in Oregon. You must complete a free...

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...

Buying a license or permit

Eastern Oregon mule deer are managed by Deer Hunt Areas. Check here for more details

Eastern Oregon Deer Hunt Areas updated Sept 15 2025.jpg

All other big game

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