New Grouse Hunter

[JProper]

Hey guys, new to Washington, new to grouse hunting. I’m in the Spanaway area and have been making trips to capitol state forest. But I’m not a fan of the crowds and even putting 30+ miles on my feet behind the gated roads I haven’t seen many birds. I was thinking of expanding my range out to the south side of Olympic, west of Mohrweis. Do you guys think that area is worth the drive, or would I be better suited to head north? Any help would be great, as I’d like to get on some birds (or bunnies) this year.

Thanks!

[brokentrail]

I can't help you with Grouse but there are plenty of rabbits in the Skookumchuck Wildlife Area.  I used to run my beagles out there and there are plenty of rabbits.

[JProper]

I can't help you with Grouse but there are plenty of rabbits in the Skookumchuck Wildlife Area.  I used to run my beagles out there and there are plenty of rabbits.

Good to know! I’ll have to do some walking with my 28ga out there

[Goshawk]

On any given day in the woods, I see at least 10 deer to one grouse.  They have really taken a beating over the past few years.  When I see one now, I get out of the truck and shoo it away!

[Skyvalhunter]

Depends on if you seek ruffed or high country blues. I hunt the blues so I am in the high country. If your seeing a lot of people the grouse could and will be weary steering away from the roads. Ran into many a ruffed that you would hope to be able to get a shot at due that fact. Suggest trying a different area if you want to have success.

[BigGoonTuna]

I think I could count the number of grouse I’ve seen in capital forest over the years on one hand. It’s not that they aren’t there, I think that it’s because there are few roads closed to motorized traffic and it gets really busy up there.

I’ve heard it hasn’t been a great year, but the one time I went out looking for them I saw 3 west of Shelton (green diamond land).

I like to find decommissioned roads going through alder creek bottoms, always seem to find the ruffs in those.