Quick Tips
- GPS or a compass will be a necessity at all times in this unit, especially while hunting along private land boundaries
- Scout the unit during the summer to know what crops are planted and which farmlands will hold the best game
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 100"-110" | 120"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 330"+ |
On The Ground
This large unit is a mix of public and private land, with hunting opportunities available on both types of land. Griffin Peak and Chase Mountain, both in the National Forest, top out at over 5,600-ft. The unit drops to around 1,600-ft on the north side along Hwy 12 and the city of Dayton. In 2005 and 2006 large fires consumed much of this unit. This GMU has the highest density of general season hunters with good access throughout.
Elk can be difficult to find in this unit. There are reports of black bears in the foothills and forested areas of this unit.
Terrain
Farming and ranching dominate this diverse region. Large tilled farms are the main use of this fertile land throughout the northern portion, slowly rising to the foothills of the Blue Mountains which consist of deep cuts ranging from open to forested fir, pine hill sides and old deadfalls from past severe fire seasons.
Roughly 213 square miles
26% public land
Elevations range from 1,300– 5,600 feet
Vegetation
The northwest region is dry scabland and prairie with various dryland grasses and tilled dryland farming for various grains. The unit rises as you move southeast into the Blue Mountain foothills. Patchworked old growth fir forests top out within the unit at 5,600-ft. The riparian habitat provides open spaces, great browse and bushy draws, holding healthy populations of deer.
Access
There is a mix of public and private land in this unit, with great public access. There is also great private access, with sizeable tracts of ground in the Hunt by Written Permission and Feel Free to Hunt programs.
Carry a GPS unit and know your access boundaries
Many acres of public access on Umatilla Indian Reservation and private lands to explore and hunt
Camping and Lodging
There are limited camping areas available on private land. Primitive camping in the National Forest is allowed for the majority of the year, but various fire bans and forest road closures may be in effect, so double check any restrictions or permits necessary prior to your trip. Lodging, gas stations, restaurants, and a grocery store will be located in Dayton and Waitsburg.
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