Hunters have noted that Unit 51 around Sumpter, Oregon, offers a challenging terrain that requires thorough preparation and robust gear. The lack of water sources in certain areas stands out, advising entrants to bring ample supplies. Game behavior indicates that elk tend to stay in higher elevations during early season, shifting lower as temperatures drop, making it crucial to adjust strategies accordingly. Overall, the sentiment leans towards positive, with seasoned hunters finding success through diligent planning and adaptability to the changing conditions within the unit.
Stretching from the high desert near Baker City to the rugged peaks of the Elkhorn Mountains, this unit has an amazing diversity of terrain and wildlife, including elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope, California bighorn sheep and mountain goat.
One of the most diverse big game management units in the country, this unit offers trophy-size specimens of six different big game animals.