Recreation Report
Columbia Area
Recreation Report
COLUMBIA BIG GAME HUNTING
April 23, 2026
Currently open
Controlled Spring Bear, Cougar (check current harvest numbers), Coyote
Announcements and resources
Here's the local scoop for your hunt area in the 2026 Spring Bear Forecast.
Submit your applications for 2026 controlled hunts by May 15.
Big game harvest statistics - You'll find links to population, harvest and point summary reports that can help you decide what hunts to apply for this season.
Please report elk with hoof disease - If you see elk showing signs of elk hoof disease, including lame or limping elk or elk with damaged, injured, missing or deformed hooves, please report it using this online form.
Coyote and wolf ID - Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Test your ID skills. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.
Hunting in drought and wildfire season - actions you can take to protect wildlife.
For the most current fire closures and restrictions--Bookmark this page.
District updates
Habitat conditions:
Watch local weather reports and prepare for possible weather changing conditions over the extension of your hunt. Areas are showing warmer and drier than normal conditions, please be mindful when recreating in the outdoors.
HOOD RIVER, WASCO, SHERMAN COUNTIES (Hood, White River, Maupin, West Biggs Units)
Cougar: Cougar season is open year-round. Driving logging roads in search of fresh tracks paired with predator calling can be an effective strategy.
Coyotes: Try calling for them from open fields, meadows, and pastures. The best areas to find them will be near farm grounds on the eastern boundary of the district. Look for them in early morning or evening and pay close attention to wind direction.