The unit doesn’t contain any huge public-land areas, but there are many smaller sized areas that, combined with creeks, wetlands, and croplands, provide good opportunities for the DIY whitetail-deer hunter.

Part of the Southern Coteau region, Unit 2J2 is primarily known as a waterfowl haven. There are several pot-hole ponds in the area, many of which are the focal point of Waterfowl Production Areas.

This unit is primarily in North Dakota’s Northern Coteau region and features many coulees and pothole ponds, especially in the northeastern portion of the unit. This makes it a popular nesting area for waterfowl. On the east side of the unit, the plateau rises relatively sharply, and the prominent terrain has many ravines. These often have pockets of forested areas, as well as ample food for deer. This is good for hunters that are willing to put in a little extra effort to scout out all of the nooks and crannies.

Much of this unit is either agricultural property, livestock pasture and cropland, or wetlands with native grasses. The steep ridges and some coulees and draws feature primarily cottonwood, with some scattered aspen and birch trees. Patches of native trees in Unit 2J2 are scarce for the most part, but there are some, especially on the large slopes in the eastern part of the unit.

Great access via highway and county roads will get you close to most areas. There are a few areas in the region that don’t have marked roads, but in general, the public land portions are small, and accessing them on foot is not too difficult. For the most part, however, you’re able to drive right to most public-access areas. Highway 14 and highway 36 break the unit into relatively equal quadrants. While public opportunities are not in short supply, the majority of the land is private, and getting to know which landowners allow hunting will pay off. Like other units in the Southern Coteau region, the primary downfall here is cover. There are very few areas in this unit that have thick groves of native trees. While there are many plots of public access, most of them are small. One such area that provides excellent opportunities for whitetail hunting is the Haven Hills Wildlife Management Area in the north-central part of the unit.

The unit is bordered by Jamestown in the southeast corner, which provides plenty of lodging choices. If you would like to stay on the north end of the unit, Carrington is in the very northeast corner and provides a few options. Most of the WMA’s allow primitive camping, but be sure to check the regulations of the specific WMA you are planning to visit.