Please PM for any specific, not publicly available unit details. Don't want to spot burn.
I'm living in Pendleton through October and will have 2 points to spend on the rifle mule deer draw. Being new to the area, I've been out coyote hunting, turkey scouting and exploring in several units trying to narrow down where I might want to apply for my tag. I'd like to pick a unit that's close so I can scout just about every weekend. I'll also have a WA mule deer / muzzy elk tag so the border units are attractive for that.
Units I've been in and could draw: 48, 49
Units I could draw but haven't explored much yet: 54 (west), 55, 56
I hate hunting areas where there are a lot of roads and trucks/sxs/dirt bikes/four wheelers all over the place so I'm really more interested in those latter units.
Unit 54 West - very close, easy access. Majority is scattered with roads though and the small wilderness area is heavy on trails. I have received some "inside info" on an area to check out in this unit.
Unit 55 - Also close, but limited on public land comparatively. Some networks of road systems with roadless areas between them though. Borders WA unit.
Unit 56 - Furthest away but large wilderness area. Borders WA unit that might be attractive as well.
Any thoughts on which I should focus on/apply for? I'm hoping to go check out 55 and 56 this weekend snow levels permitting. I'll continue to do so until the application deadline on 5/15. Posting with the idea that others might be able to point out pros/cons of these units before I waste weekend time in a unit I shouldn't really be considering.
I joined the OHA and will be attending the local meetings to try to meet folks and discuss as well.
Thanks in advance.