Quick Tips
- Carry a GPS with land ownership data installed
- Developing a relationship with a landowner is important
- Use a boat or canoe to reach land below the high water point
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Columbian Blacktail Deer | 110"-130" | 140"+ |
| Roosevelt Elk | 220"-240" | 260"+ |
On The Ground
More people live here than in any other game management unit in Oregon, but it also produces a small number of trophy-class Roosevelt elk and a few big Columbia blacktail deer.
Don’t plan to hunt in this unit unless you first have permission to hunt on private property, although there are some limited public hunting opportunities. Most land is covered with trees and high brush.
Terrain
Stretching north from Portland and south to Eugene on both sides of Interstate 5, this unit features the meandering Willamette River bottoms and land that is mostly flat to slightly hilly.
Roughly 2,883 square miles
6% public land
Elevations from 0-1,100 feet
Vegetation
This unit has many meadows, pastures and farms and a lot of woodlots and some forested areas on the edges. Waterways typically are lined with dense brush and trees. Conifers such as spruces and firs as well as deciduous trees such as alders and maples grow throughout the unit. Many logged areas offer openings and brushy habitat that provides food and cover for deer. Elk are restricted mostly to dense woodlots and forested draws.
Access
Public hunting opportunities are limited because the land is almost entirely private. Hunters should arrange for access to private property before planning to hunt the Willamette area. Interstate 5 runs north and south through the unit, and a network of roads provide access to most properties.
Before buying or applying for big game tags, get to know landowners
Hunt small tracts in such a way that animals are not driven away
Many farms lie along both sides of the Willamette Valley
Camping and Lodging
There is a scarcity of campgrounds in this unit. Plan to camp in an RV park or private campground or stay in a motel. Many motels are situated in at least a dozen towns and cities, including Portland, Eugene, Salem, McMinnville, Dallas, Corvallis and Lebanon.
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