New to Oregon

[rocknwell]

Hello, I just moved to Oregon from South Dakota. I've been a member here for a while, but the last couple seasons have been slow for me. I am trying to figure out all the public land areas available to hunt in OR, but it's extremely confusing! I have a couple specific questions:

1. Are all the state and national forests open to public hunting?

2. Are there any maps that detail other public lands (walk-in areas, BLM, school, wildlife refuges, Army Corps, etc)?

I just bought an elk tag for 1st season Coast elk. Would anyone be willing to help a brother out with getting started? I've hunted for several years in SD, but OR is an entirely different animal! I am looking for a mentor out here in regards to learning the land, learning the logistics of Oregon hunting (SD was WAY easier to navigate regs, public hunting land, and game hunting options), and any tips/tricks for the land, weather, and animals in this part of the country. I'm not looking for you to tell me your secret spot. I'm looking for someone to help point me in the right direction, and maybe even be a hunting partner. Thank you!

PS: I live in Beaverton, so if you're close by, maybe we can meet and talk all things hunting. I'm a sponge!

Micah Rockwell

 

[HPaulson]

1. Open areas are defined in the unit boundaries in the big game regulation. Just look up your tag number.
2. For the west side your best bet is the forest service for maps. I have seen unit maps at a gun store in burns and at quick glance they maybe helpful.