OCHOCO DISTRICT

2nd BULL SEASON: Wet, muddy conditions appeared to keep hunters close to roads and camp, and contributed to lower than expected success. Elk appear scattered across public and private lands, at all elevations. Last years above average calf numbers should provide improved opportunities for yearling bulls, with a good carry over of mature bulls noted in the Maury and Ochoco units. Hunters in the Ochoco Unit are reminded the motorized access restrictions are in effect in the Rager and South Boundary Travel Management Areas. Grizzly unit hunters with the Private Lands either sex hunt are reminded Ochoco Lumber Company Lands are NOT within the hunt area for this tag.
 
COUGAR: Cougar are reported regularly in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units, at all elevations and habitat types. Areas to consider include the Alkali Butte and Sanford Creek (Maury WMU); Bridge Creek, Sunflower Creek, and Lookout Mountain (Ochoco WMU); and Green Mountain, Mill Creek, and Marks Creek (Grizzly WMU). As winter progresses areas frequented by concentrations of wintering elk and deer will be areas to scout for cougar sign.

BEAR: Populations are limited with the better opportunities in the denser forested portions of the Ochoco National Forest in the Ochoco and Grizzly units. Suggested areas to consider include the northern portion of Ochoco unit in Bridge Creek, Pisgah Mountain, Keeton Creek, and Rock Creek; and Bear and Trout Creeks in the Grizzly unit.

GAME BIRDS:
Blue/Ruffed Grouse: Forest grouse will be at higher elevations in the denser forested portions of the Ochoco and Grizzly units.
Valley Quail and Chukar: Opportunities are limited for chukar, with the best chances on steeper canyon areas associated with the John Day, Crooked, and Deschutes Rivers.  Valley quail are present in all three units, particularly in more agricultural areas around streams, ponds, and other wet areas. Concentrations of birds will generally be near or on private lands where permission from the landowner is necessary.
Ducks/Geese: At this time most birds present are resident birds using local reservoirs, ponds, and water bodies.  The larger concentrations of birds are around private land where permission from the owner is needed. 
Ducks/Geese: At this time most birds present are resident birds using local reservoirs, ponds, and water bodies.  The larger concentrations of birds are around private land where permission from the owner is needed.