1st Time in Years

[Pugetsound]

Please don't mock me too much, but this is late season is the first time in about eight years that I will have a chance to go deer hunting. Between family obligations, grad school, wife's school, Military obligations, and work obligations, and living in the hell-hole known as Seattle it just hasn't happened.

Late modern has always been my favorite time to hunt. This year being the first in so long and having two boys with me, a 15 and 13 year old, I am trying to decide the most appropriate place to go. The number one priority is being out with the boys hanging out having fun, the second is a significant chance of seeing deer, the third is location, and finally having a reasonable chance of seeing a legal animal to take.

After studying maps, dnr lands, gmu's, and other things, I have for the most part decided on (and in no particular order except alphabetical) Capital, Elbe, and Tahuya/Green Mt Forests.

My question to the local subject matter experts, given my criteria, what would likely be my best option? Or would you have other recommendations?

For those you might be thinking, oh he never goes shooting or doesn't use guns for much, I promise that is not an issue.

Thanks for any help and advice.

Regards,
Nate

[Birdguy]

Time allowing I would really look to the late rifle hunt in the northeast corner of the state. Great chance for a good time, usually better weather, great chance at seeing deer, good chance for a shot or two.

If it is a weekend only event, I would look southwest, Tahuhya and Green Mt. area has been posted up pretty tight, still possible but not like it used to be. Either way nice job on getting out with your boys  . Good luck to you and them where ever you decide to go.

[fishnfur]

I took my 13 yo step-son out to S. Tahuhya last year.  We have a cabin close-by and after scouting it behind closed gates, it seemed a good choice.  Come opening day, the gates were open and there was endless road traffic through all my prime spots.  I'd shy away from this one and head for the hills or the coast.

[Eli346]

Capitol has a lot of deer in it but you won't find them road hunting. They have maps of the forest available at the ranger station on Black Lake Blvd off of 101 in West Olympia. Expect a lot of competition up there. I don't normally hunt deer there but it can be done.

[Pugetsound]

Thanks for the replies everyone. And FML--My Unit notified me Monday that I will be working this weekend once again. With that said, most of the conditions, that almost gave me a chance to take the boys out will still exist and even more so next year. So will be looking toward that for deer and will probably try for some late season grouse this year.

Once again I will live vicariously through you all.

I really need a smokepole, that would give me much better opportunity for my available times....

Oh well enough whine.

[billythekidrock]

Capitol has a lot of deer in it but you won't find them road hunting. They have maps of the forest available at the ranger station on Black Lake Blvd off of 101 in West Olympia. Expect a lot of competition up there. I don't normally hunt deer there but it can be done.

Since when has the feds offered a state map? Been a few years since I have been in there and they did not carry state maps back then.

[Eli346]

Billy,
 I've picked up my last 2 maps of Capitol from there. I haven't been in a few years but I'm planning on getting another soon as my latest map got soaked. I'll keep you posted if they have them. Eli