506 Willapa Hills Late Season Antlerless Tag

[Fast Rider]

Hey crew,

I drew a late season antlerless tag in 506. My wife and I have 2 young kids so my time will be limited on this hunt (maybe just an overnighter or 2 if I’m lucky). I’m wondering if anyone has any insight as to what I can expect regarding elk numbers and hunting pressure? Tips on getting into elk? Purchasing a Weyerhaeuser permit is not in the cards for me this year. If anyone has any tips or areas to focus on I would greatly appreciate it - I’ll be hunting solo.

[bobcat]

The Weyerhaeuser permit sold out over a month ago anyway. I can tell you without the Weyerhaeuser access, you'll want to focus on the south end of the unit off Highway 4 from Skamokawa, and to the west near Deep River. There are a couple chunks of state land, and possibly a couple of smaller timberland owners that might be open to hunting.

[Tinmaniac]

Are there any left that aren't limping.?

[metlhead]

Didn't the state recently purchase a large chunk of land in that area?

[Fast Rider]

Thanks for the info Bobcat!

[stur4351@gmail.com]

Any public land you can drive on will likely have plenty of pressure, between everyone else still chasing bulls and late season deer.

That said, the cows’ biggest concern that time of year is food, given they all (should) have babies growing in them. If it’s cold out, they may be feeding in clearings even during daylight. If you know a spot they like, sit somewhere you can see it during mid afternoon and see if they come out at pop-out time. Concentrate on areas that require a good hike in, get to where you can glass, and once you find a herd, watch the direction they’re moving and make a play. Check wind often too.

I would also get comfortable shooting as far as you can with a bow (I’m assuming that’s the tag you have). You’re more likely to have 50-80 yard shot opportunities than you are under 50, although maybe you’ll get lucky.

Good luck