New to Western Washington

[PNW]

Hello everyone. I recently moved to Western Washington (Olympic Peninsula) and am having difficulty locating good areas for deer. I know they are all over Blyn and Discovery Bay, not to mention all the deer right in city limits. I have been in Forks but that is more Elk and Bear territory. Its also quite a drive for me. I have been south of PA in the higher elevations and it is pretty steep and not much deer sign. There are a ton of hunters in those areas not to mention the road hunters. Right now its about meat in the freezer more than points......So, any tips for a FNG? Thanks.

[fishnfur]

Welcome to the forum.  At this point, I would say hunt close to those areas where you know there are deer.  Glassing a clearcut with young reproduction fir in it could be a winner.  DNR or National Forest lands down close to the canal might also be a good opportunity.  The hunter numbers tell you the most popular spots.  They are popular because they tend to have success in those areas year after year.  Get off the road, hike in a quarter mile minimum, then find some fresh sign.  Coyle Unit is good for meat hunters because you can take a doe (I believe). 

Figure out what they're feeding on in your area.  Salmonberry/Elderberry?  Fallen Alder leaves? Trailing and other Blackberry?  Find a doe without kids and a buck may be close by or coming along soon.  Good luck.

[JimmyHoffa]

Most anything close to town will be crawling with people.  Just have to drive a little bit to get away from people.  It takes about the same amount of time to get out past Blyn or past Joyce that it does to get to the high country trails south of town. 

[fishnfur]

... and there's Pope Resources timberland south of P. Townsend that is pretty good country too.

[PNW]

Thanks for the replies. I have been south around Maynard Peak for the past couple of days. Not much deer activity. With the new snow, I am hoping they move around a bit. I know the rut is starting and if I don't get a deer by Wednesday, it will be boots on the ground for the late hunt in November. Thanks again for the replies.

[Special T]

Byod Iverson Blacktail Trophy Tactics 2
its like the bible for blacktail.