Sounds like quite a few people have had success in the Methow so far. I saw a ton of does, but no bucks. My dad shot a nice 4x4. I'm trying to go back this weekend if I can get out of work to seal the deal. Buck my dad shot wasn't neck-swollen but was trailing a doe pretty hot and heavy. Also heard that a few guys saw a buck trying to mount another buck. So that, plus the cold weather coming in this week could lead to some rutting activity. Good luck!