DIY Imnaha Unit Oregon Elk Hunt First Time

[Islandwarrior233]

I have not hunted Elk since I was 15 and I am now 25. I have stuck to deer mostly because southern oregon does not have very good elk populations. Some how I got lucky and drew the Imnaha bull tag first try! I have been vigorously researching the area online, talking to a biologist and going over my USFS map daily. I think I have found some good areas: Big Sheep Creek, Bear Gulch and Deadhorse Ridge. I have never been there and I am going with a couple of friends this friday (July 27th). We are in excellent shape and will go anywhere animals are. Has anyone ever hunted this unit in late october? Also what are some patterns you know of that elk do during this time period. I am not so much going to find where the animals are because I know that will be completely different than in the fall, I am just trying to get an idea of what I should look for and WHERE I should look. We will have a day and a half to sniff around, and plan on trying to hit mostly the eastern half of the unit. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated!

 

[Jerry]

The one thing that you need to be prepared for is snow! Depending on elevation and the year it can snow a lot! Also there are wolves in that area to keep an eye on. I have a Imnaha deer tag but will be going into the Eagle Cap wilderness. I have never hunted Deadhorse Ridge but I know that there are many private holdings in the area, so be sure of the area you are heading to.

 

[OR Archer]

First and foremost have a plan on how to get an elk out. That country is VERY rugged. Some of the deepest canyons in the country are in that unit. So be very prepared.

 

[Jerry]

+1 what Or Archer said. It is some very very rugged country!

 

[Islandwarrior233]

I hunt the blue mountains in Washington every year for deer and it is 130 miles north of Imnaha. Same terrain, so I am not worried about it. I have 3 other guys going with me and I have a trailer winch and a heavy duty sled just in case the snow gets too bad. Anyone know of any spots I should focus on and/or what parts of the terrain?