Using boat for access???

[johnr060]

Talked to a guy today that said he uses a boat on Riffe lake to access more remote spots in the Winston unit. Just wondering if it's legal? He said he has been doing it for years. I think it would be an awsome way to access some of that land if it were okay to do. What are your guys thoughts? He hunts archery.

[Eli346]

Perfectly legal. Got a bull that way a few years back. Make sure the boat is decent size as the wind comes up out there and you may have trouble getting back to the boat launch.

[muzbuster]

I have done the same. 

[johnr060]

Alright that sounds great. Ive got an 18 foot boat so it shouldn't be a problem. Thanks guys just wanted to make sure.

[doyourtime89]

Yeah a friend of mine did that a few years ago down there at Riffe lake.

[Blacktail Sniper]

Just be sure you don't dock/tie-up at somebody's private property and end-up tresspassing.  Would be the only possible issue I could see.

[muzbuster]

Just be sure you don't dock/tie-up at somebody's private property and end-up tresspassing.  Would be the only possible issue I could see.

Also, the water level (usually) is down that time of year so you need to watch out for islands that are just covered with water. Need to use caution if running in low light.

[Blacktail Sniper]

Just be sure you don't dock/tie-up at somebody's private property and end-up tresspassing.  Would be the only possible issue I could see.

Also, the water level (usually) is down that time of year so you need to watch out for islands that are just covered with water. Need to use caution if running in low light.

Good point!!

[fillthefreezer]

could really earn its keep with gps that shows property boundary and ownership...

[johnr060]

Is there any maps that show private property ownership on the st Helens side of the lake or is it all timber company land?

[Alchase]

Polk and Talbot I believe.

[Eli346]

 It's all timber company land to the south side and most on the north side too. The north may have a bit of private but not much.

[bobcat]

Use the Lewis County GIS map to determine ownership.

I think there's some Port Blakely in there, not sure about Polk & Talbot. 

[johnr060]

Thanks for all the info guys. Is that land typically shut down for fire danger? I have only ever hunted the state land. This is the first summer we have scouted the southeast end of the lake. Been up there a bunch. Just wondering if its likely to get shut down?

[muzbuster]

Thanks for all the info guys. Is that land typically shut down for fire danger? I have only ever hunted the state land. This is the first summer we have scouted the southeast end of the lake. Been up there a bunch. Just wondering if its likely to get shut down?

Yes it will get closed if not already.