Free: Contests & Raffles.
I've done this hunt (172/181) several times and it's just like most other late season hunts in that it's very dependant on the weather. The majority of these units are private land but if you can get down there early you will find that the landowners are not nearly as standoffish and hostile as they are in the NE corner. Not saying you're guaranteed access, but most will point you in the right direction even if they don't allow access to their property. 181 does have a couple of wildlife areas but they are hit the hardest and I would focus on private land access as much as possible. I would also focus on 172 until the snow drives you out of the highlands (your unlikely to get access down by the river) then move over to 181. Field Springs State Park is a good place to stay to access both units and the Ranger for the Park is very friendly and helpfull. They also have some reasonable cabin rentals there if you don't feel like roughing it.SNOW CHAINS, SNOW CHAINS, SNOW CHAINS...Don't leave home without them. The grade out of Asotin as well as the one going down to Bogans Oasis don't receive a whole lot of attention from road crews so just assume it's an at your own risk kind of deal. It's also not uncommon to go from clear and dry one day to a foot of powder the next. Oh, and did I mention blowing wind and sub arctic temps. LOL. Just kidding it's really not that bad.These units are far from overloaded with deer but if you hunt it hard and work on the landowners there's no reason not to be successfull. You won't count deer by the hundreds like you do in 113 but you also won't have much competition outside of the wildlife areas either. Kind of a give and take.
The cabins are inside Field Springs State Park. It's been a couple of years since I stayed in one but they were comfortable. Single room with bunk racks, wood stove and running water if my memory serves me correctly. I think they went for around $20 a night but that was a while ago. Might have to inqure about availablility. Parks phone # (509) 256-3332
You could stay in lewiston/Clarkston and it's not that far up the river to hunt. All my maps are up north but I could maybe give you a few pointer's.
Makes me feel safe! Will reserve my side comments!
Keep in mind that the late muzzy hunt in both units are whitetail only. I grew up hunting modern in both these units and there is definitely more mule deer than whitetail. I have hunted archery there the past 3 season and have filled my tag every year. No whitetail though ... all mulie bucks. Although, I am testing my luck this year and also hunting the late muzzy hunt in 181. As mentioned before it is mostly private land up near Field Springs, so keep in mind that it's a long drive without having permission to hunt. Good luck if you decide to hunt it. I will be in a white tundra w/ a canopy. Feel free to say hi if you see me.