Recreation Report
South Central Area
Recreation Report
SOUTH CENTRAL BIG GAME HUNTING
July 16, 2026
Currently open
Cougar (check current harvest numbers), Coyote
Announcements and resources
Summertime is here for youth to get ahead of the game--Register for Hunter Safety Education before fall.
2026 Point Summary Reports are posted to help you plan this season's big game hunts.
It's not too late to purchase Point Savers for each series, available now until November 30, 2026.
Check the Leftover Tag List for an opportunity to hunt this year.
Big game harvest statistics - You'll find links to population, harvest and maps that can help you decide where to hunt 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.
KLAMATH COUNTY
Cougar: Cougar season is open year-round, and populations are healthy and distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Most harvest occurs while hunters are pursuing deer and elk.
Predator calling or locating a fresh cougar kill can increase chances of success. Oregon does offer an additional cougar tag good all year throughout the state. Deer and elk are on winter ranges within the district. Some of these locations are open to non-motorized only. Be sure to read posted closure or restrictions prior to entry.
Coyote: Populations are currently low but distributed throughout the county. Public lands adjacent to cattle operations may increase opportunities in February and March when calving often takes place. Be sure to secure permission for any private lands.
LAKE COUNTY
Cougar: Cougar populations are healthy throughout the district. Predator calls can be an effective cougar hunting method though bobcats and bears may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and season limitations exist for these species. Hunters should be prepared for predators other than cougar to respond.
Coyote populations are generally low, but some hunting is available throughout the district. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and season limitations exist for these species.