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Big Game Hunting => Elk Hunting => Topic started by: Mxracer532 on July 22, 2015, 06:47:33 PM


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Title: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on July 22, 2015, 06:47:33 PM
Im trying not to worry too much just yet as the fire is still quite alittle ways away, what do you guys think? Should I start sweating this? What are the chances they shut down the National Forest during Sept? Tag lost? Then I go hunt the Jackwagon who ruined peoples lives by starting a fire??? :dunno:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: trophyhunt on July 22, 2015, 06:58:30 PM
Most of our opinions won't mean much because who really knows what is going to happen.  But I think you have a 50% chance of being locked out of the woods this sept., it's so hot and dry just too soon this year.  The good thing is there isn't that many tags given out and they might give you an exception.  A few years ago I know a friend who's 3 friends all had muzzy tags, they got permission to enter that area and hunt.  They had small fire's going in areas they were hunting and it was smoky with planes flying.  Maybe they knew the right person to get permission, I don't know.  I would be worried as heck if I had an archery tag this year for the blues, I hope it goes good for all you guys in the blues and else where.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: SkookumHntr on July 22, 2015, 07:33:11 PM
Where are the fires at? There was a fire on sawtooth by beaver creek about 2 weeks ago but I think they got it out pretty fast, I didn't see smoke the next day.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Firedogg on July 22, 2015, 09:07:26 PM
 The Blue Creek fire is heading that way.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: elkchaser54 on July 22, 2015, 09:53:29 PM
BLUE CREEK FIRE REPORT
The following information was provided to Walla Walla City Council during their regular Wednesday meeting in a special report on the Blue Creek Fire.
Approximately 600 fire fighters from across the nation are now fighting the Blue Creek Fire.
Incident Commander Mike Ciraulo said the Blue Creek Fire is currently the highest-priority wildfire in the nation.
Adding to the severity of the fire is its proximity to the Mill Creek Watershed, which serves as a source of water for more than 30,000 residents of Walla Walla.
Officials reported as of this evening, the Blue Creek Fire is approximately one mile from the Mill Creek Watershed and moving toward the watershed in an easterly and southeasterly direction.
Ciraulo said the strategy now is to work on cutting the fire off on the sides, and he is hoping for 5 percent containment by Thursday morning.
The incident commander also said that if the fire breaks through into the watershed and up Mill Creek, the terrain and dry fuels would make for extremely hazardous fire fighting conditions.



You shouldnt have to worry in the East, yet.  Still would have to burn through the whole watershed and west weneha.  Hopefully some less windy days set in and they can get more than that 5% containment mark.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: BUTTER on July 22, 2015, 10:20:07 PM
your best bet in my opinion which doesn't mean *censored* is you better hope it doesn't reach the wilderness line because if it does they will let it go and shut it out down alot cheaper for them to go about it that away and safer as there main goal is to protect life and property fires in the forest and wilderness areas are needed and a natural thing we all need to have happen
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: pashok23 on July 22, 2015, 10:25:42 PM
Start PRAYING for a heavy rain...
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: BUTTER on July 22, 2015, 10:26:30 PM
By the way I hope they don't lock it out because I will be there in Sept hoping to watch a friend geta bull with his bow
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: bobdog86 on July 22, 2015, 10:26:49 PM
They definitely don't want it to get to the shed thats for sure, which may be a blessing as it sounds like they are dumping the resources on it.  I am the eternal optimist, gonna say you'll be okay, but I would be sweating a little. Hang in there.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: 2MANY on July 23, 2015, 08:32:56 AM
Fire fighting 101.

Let it get blown up out of control and then spend twice the effort and money taking twice as long to put it out.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Firedogg on July 23, 2015, 04:04:04 PM
Don't think they "let" this one get out of control. There have been very few fires in Washington that have gotten as many resources as quickly as this has. And even fewer ones that get FEMA funding and support. If this gets into the Watershed it will be considered a disaster because of the effect it will have for a long time on the water quality for Walla Walla and other areas it supplies.

  Our crew from Federal Way is still over there with no timeline on when they will return.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Timberstalker on July 23, 2015, 04:07:23 PM
Don't think they "let" this one get out of control. There have been very few fires in Washington that have gotten as many resources as quickly as this has. And even fewer ones that get FEMA funding and support. If this gets into the Watershed it will be considered a disaster because of the effect it will have for a long time on the water quality for Walla Walla and other areas it supplies.

  Our crew from Federal Way is still over there with no timeline on when they will return.

The response to the fire was as good as I've seen, from what I followed.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Roperfive88 on July 23, 2015, 09:50:19 PM
Then I go hunt the Jackwagon who ruined peoples lives by starting a fire??? :dunno:
[/quote]

I heard the fire was started by a combine not on purpose.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: toyman2 on July 24, 2015, 10:18:47 AM
to bad it was the 2nd fire it started in 3 days. or so the story goes
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on July 24, 2015, 03:27:21 PM
to bad it was the 2nd fire it started in 3 days. or so the story goes

Thats just sad if thats the true story!
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: elkchaser54 on July 24, 2015, 07:18:52 PM
http://union-bulletin.com/news/2015/jul/24/Fire-10-percent-contained/

The wind keeps blowing out of the South South West like they are calling for, the watershed is just fine.  Its just creeping more towards the dayton unit.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: BLUEBULLS on July 25, 2015, 09:16:50 PM
I really don't want to see any structures burned but there's a lot of country up there that needs a fire.... the last 2 big ones were the best thing I've seen for wildlife up there in my lifetime. I wouldn't worry too much about east wenaha. That's a long ways away. It's actually a lot greener up there than it seems it should be.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 09:50:33 AM
From talking with Bios this hunt is officially over!
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Elkpiss on August 27, 2015, 10:08:20 AM
From talking with Bios this hunt is officially over!

Bummer man, my bro has a muzzy in the west that were pretty much loosing all hope for...  how fukd... once in a lifetime tag down the toilet..  should honor these tags for the next years season... 
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 10:11:57 AM
From talking with Bios this hunt is officially over!

Bummer man, my bro has a muzzy in the west that were pretty much loosing all hope for...  how fukd... once in a lifetime tag down the toilet..  should honor these tags for the next years season...

That is EXACTLY my thoughts as well and yes I would still see it the same way if I didnt have the tag.
I just talked to the directors office and basically asked them whats taking so long to make a decision. He said meetings are happining as we speak about it. I also mentioned I didnt understand the hold up considering the OFGD made a decision on their Wenaha tag holders hunts several days ago. ( I dont think he liked my ?) :dunno:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: 180-GRAIN on August 27, 2015, 10:17:40 AM
From talking with Bios this hunt is officially over!

Bummer man, my bro has a muzzy in the west that were pretty much loosing all hope for...  how fukd... once in a lifetime tag down the toilet..  should honor these tags for the next years season...

That is EXACTLY my thoughts as well and yes I would still see it the same way if I didnt have the tag.
I just talked to the directors office and basically asked them whats taking so long to make a decision. He said meetings are happining as we speak about it. I also mentioned I didnt understand the hold up considering the OFGD made a decision on their Wenaha tag holders hunts several days ago. ( I dont think he liked my ?) :dunno:

You should at the very least be given your points back if they don't allow you to hunt. Just my opinion :dunno:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on August 27, 2015, 10:31:56 AM
I respectfully disagree on re-issue of tags. That would essentially postpone the draw for a full year, and WDFW would take a significant hit in applicant loss. And what about future catostrophic incidents? Is this the precedent we want to set?

It sucks. Personally I think the department should give an option for Governor type rules for apllicable tags until December 31st for the units that are shut down, Or return tag for points return.  :twocents:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 10:36:18 AM
I respectfully disagree on re-issue of tags. That would essentially postpone the draw for a full year, and WDFW would take a significant hit in applicant loss. And what about future catostrophic incidents? Is this the precedent we want to set?

It sucks. Personally I think the department should give an option for Governor type rules for apllicable tags until December 31st for the units that are shut down, Or return tag for points return.  :twocents:

Thats exactly right it would post pone the draw for all of 6 people another year just like it has the 6 of us that drew the tag. ONLY we might have to wait who knows how many years to get lucky again. I HIGHLY HIGHLY doubt they would take any hit in the applicants at all. Guys/gals would just do the points option or put in for a different unit.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Lnk on August 27, 2015, 11:12:42 AM
I feel your pain man but as far as giving the tag holders the tag next year is not right. As bad as it is, it's Mother Nature doing her thing! what if a massive snow storm hit the blues (which is possible) and guys couldn't get to n.f or wilderness and it pushed the elk to private. Should a guy get the tag the next year if that happened?
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: idahohuntr on August 27, 2015, 11:15:46 AM
Allow folks to give up the tags if they want, restore their points, and go to the next name on the applicant list and offer them the tag? 

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Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: nw_bowhunter on August 27, 2015, 11:22:47 AM
Return the points or allow to hunt a later date would be fair. I'm sure other special permit tag holders in other parts of the state may have to deal with fires that possibly affected their permits. I don't see it as a fair solution to re-issue special permits due to this years issue. I personally drew a special permit for another area of the state and could easily been in the same situation. Sorry guys I really hopes your hunts workout for you.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 11:38:03 AM
Return the points or allow to hunt a later date would be fair. I'm sure other special permit tag holders in other parts of the state may have to deal with fires that possibly affected their permits. I don't see it as a fair solution to re-issue special permits due to this years issue. I personally drew a special permit for another area of the state and could easily been in the same situation. Sorry guys I really hopes your hunts workout for you.

Why not??? Everyone would know they cant draw one of the 6 Wenaha East tags so they put in for the points option only or a different unit.... Even if I wasnt a tag holder I would be fine with that. POINTS ONLY OPTION PLEASE!
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 11:42:53 AM
I feel your pain man but as far as giving the tag holders the tag next year is not right. As bad as it is, it's Mother Nature doing her thing! what if a massive snow storm hit the blues (which is possible) and guys couldn't get to n.f or wilderness and it pushed the elk to private. Should a guy get the tag the next year if that happened?

REALLY???? WOW, lets stretch the scenario just a bit. YOU can hunt in snow, you CANT hunt if the entire unit is closed. The chances of getting snowed out of a September hunt or any hunt in the blues including the modern hunt is less than 5%. Hell my dad used to hunt up by godman in the late archery season in late November, never snowed out.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: vandeman17 on August 27, 2015, 11:47:19 AM
I have to say that I would be fine with letting the guys move their permits to next season. I don't see how it would cost the wdfw any money because all the guys who normally put in for there would just put in for somewhere else. It is already hard enough to draw a decent tag in the state so give the guys who were lucky enough to draw a chance to actually enjoy their luck.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: cbond3318 on August 27, 2015, 11:54:43 AM
Man I'm torn on this one but I am a proponent of reissue points or let the tag holders hunt later. This needs to stay within this season. I can see both sides of it but don't think it would be fair to the guy who is going to draw in 2016 get bumped then not be able to ever draw due to any number of reasons. :twocents:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: dreamingbig on August 27, 2015, 11:58:20 AM
Is there any amount of rain that would make them change their mind on the closure?


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Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: cbond3318 on August 27, 2015, 12:01:12 PM
Is there any amount of rain that would make them change their mind on the closure?


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I think someone quoted 2" of rain is needed to re open in another thread. That is a fairly large number for the area.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: SkookumHntr on August 27, 2015, 12:29:50 PM
They won't get 2" of rain by next march!!
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Lnk on August 27, 2015, 12:44:01 PM
I feel your pain man but as far as giving the tag holders the tag next year is not right. As bad as it is, it's Mother Nature doing her thing! what if a massive snow storm hit the blues (which is possible) and guys couldn't get to n.f or wilderness and it pushed the elk to private. Should a guy get the tag the next year if that happened?

REALLY???? WOW, lets stretch the scenario just a bit. YOU can hunt in snow, you CANT hunt if the entire unit is closed. The chances of getting snowed out of a
September hunt or any hunt in the blues including the modern hunt is less than 5%. Hell my dad used to hunt up by godman in the late archery season in late November, never snowed out.
beings u know percentage so well, what was the percentage east wenaha would get shut down for fire? Like I stated its Mother Nature doing her thing! Every body that puts in takes the chance of it shutting down
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 12:46:28 PM
Man I'm torn on this one but I am a proponent of reissue points or let the tag holders hunt later. This needs to stay within this season. I can see both sides of it but don't think it would be fair to the guy who is going to draw in 2016 get bumped then not be able to ever draw due to any number of reasons. :twocents:

This is no different to us that have drawn this year. We get bumped then for whatever reason may never draw in our lifetime also.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 12:48:01 PM
Is there any amount of rain that would make them change their mind on the closure?


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I think someone quoted 2" of rain is needed to re open in another thread. That is a fairly large number for the area.

Paul Wik the area bio told me this Monday. He said the Forest service had said they wont open till the area got 2" of rain.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: dreamingbig on August 27, 2015, 12:49:25 PM
Have a chance... Pattern is shifting per weather forecast.  Some hope anyway!


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Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 12:51:47 PM
I feel your pain man but as far as giving the tag holders the tag next year is not right. As bad as it is, it's Mother Nature doing her thing! what if a massive snow storm hit the blues (which is possible) and guys couldn't get to n.f or wilderness and it pushed the elk to private. Should a guy get the tag the next year if that happened?

REALLY???? WOW, lets stretch the scenario just a bit. YOU can hunt in snow, you CANT hunt if the entire unit is closed. The chances of getting snowed out of a
September hunt or any hunt in the blues including the modern hunt is less than 5%. Hell my dad used to hunt up by godman in the late archery season in late November, never snowed out.
beings u know percentage so well, what was the percentage east wenaha would get shut down for fire? Like I stated its Mother Nature doing her thing! Every body that puts in takes the chance of it shutting down

A hell of alot more then being snowed out thats for damn sure. When has the area EVER been snowed out??? When was the last time the blues was effected by Lightning? 10 years ago! Regardless there is no reason the state couldnt grandfather these type of tags in a (mother nature) type of situation.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Lnk on August 27, 2015, 01:07:08 PM
Ok so u don't know. Anything is possible with Mother Nature and people should think of that when they apply! I'd b more than upset also man but think about this if u six guys got grandfathered in  for next year then there would b a 100 plus people next year pissed off that couldn't apply. Now which is the fair way
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Timberstalker on August 27, 2015, 01:19:03 PM
So many arguments, so little time.... :chuckle:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 01:19:57 PM
Ok so u don't know. Anything is possible with Mother Nature and people should think of that when they apply! I'd b more than upset also man but think about this if u six guys got grandfathered in  for next year then there would b a 100 plus people next year pissed off that couldn't apply. Now which is the fair way

They can apply, FOR POINTS!!! Or for another unit. (I thought we are all sportsman) A true sportsman would understand the situation we unfortunatley got put in.  Reverse the rolls and anyone would feel the same way we as tag holders do right now.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: grundy53 on August 27, 2015, 01:24:10 PM
How about they let the permit holders have the permit next year AND still have the draw next year. That would only be 12 permits total and since there won't be any state hunter harvest during the season this year it shouldn't affect herd numbers terribly. Just a thought.

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Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: HUNT-HARD on August 27, 2015, 01:27:11 PM
Luck of the draw man. There is no way WDFW would grandfather the six tag holders tags for next year. Just ask the Mt Adams Wilderness hunters from 2012 when they got shut out. You will be lucky if they give you your points back.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Lnk on August 27, 2015, 01:32:45 PM
Put in for points... Like u stated some people may not b able to keep putting in for points! Put in for another unit... Ok all that will do is make EVERYONE else's chances harder to draw any other unit in blues. If they didn't have a wilderness draw next year than that  would mean those 300 plus people would prolly try and draw another unit and everybody chance would go down. Doesn't seem fair to me but what do I no ur the sportman. Good luck
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: BUTTER on August 27, 2015, 01:46:39 PM
Question is are you going to put next season
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: jackelope on August 27, 2015, 02:09:00 PM
I feel your pain man but as far as giving the tag holders the tag next year is not right. As bad as it is, it's Mother Nature doing her thing! what if a massive snow storm hit the blues (which is possible) and guys couldn't get to n.f or wilderness and it pushed the elk to private. Should a guy get the tag the next year if that happened?

REALLY???? WOW, lets stretch the scenario just a bit. YOU can hunt in snow, you CANT hunt if the entire unit is closed. The chances of getting snowed out of a
September hunt or any hunt in the blues including the modern hunt is less than 5%. Hell my dad used to hunt up by godman in the late archery season in late November, never snowed out.
beings u know percentage so well, what was the percentage east wenaha would get shut down for fire? Like I stated its Mother Nature doing her thing! Every body that puts in takes the chance of it shutting down

A hell of alot more then being snowed out thats for damn sure. When has the area EVER been snowed out??? When was the last time the blues was effected by Lightning? 10 years ago! Regardless there is no reason the state couldnt grandfather these type of tags in a (mother nature) type of situation.

I can tell you when it was snowed out. It wasn't in September though.

"The Blues" is a big area, and there's been lightning issues and fires more recently than 10 years ago. It's a concern down there each and every year.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: coldsteel3d on August 27, 2015, 02:10:37 PM
I have 1 of the 3 Wenaha West tags and we are completely shut out as well. The only difference if they let us  hunt next year on this years permit is that the 9 of us who drew east and west have already had the 3+ months to spend time and money preparing for this hunt. If nobody could draw it next year 9 of 500-600 would be sufferring the loss that we are but nobody knows who those 9 random people are and I bet those 9 random people aren't taking as big of hit as the 9 of us this year are.
I think that they should wait to give us our points back until they open the area and if it opens a week late, run our hunt a week late. If it opens more than a week late then call the 9 of us the have permits and see if you want to keep your permit or turn it in for points based on whether you feel like you can get it done or not in the time left. So there is 9 days between when archery closes and muzzleloader opens so they have room to push our end date out that far. So say they open the wilderness on 9/10, move the hunt end date to 9/29, if they don't open it until 9/20, have the hunt end 9/30 but give the 9 of us the option to turn our permit in for points or keep it if you think you can get it done in 10 days. Personally if I was guaranteed 5-7 days of my hunt I would keep my permit. Then if they end up not opening it by the time October rolls around just reimburse all 9 of us our points. I think this would be the best option for us.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: nw_bowhunter on August 27, 2015, 02:37:58 PM
I have 1 of the 3 Wenaha West tags and we are completely shut out as well. The only difference if they let us  hunt next year on this years permit is that the 9 of us who drew east and west have already had the 3+ months to spend time and money preparing for this hunt. If nobody could draw it next year 9 of 500-600 would be sufferring the loss that we are but nobody knows who those 9 random people are and I bet those 9 random people aren't taking as big of hit as the 9 of us this year are.
I think that they should wait to give us our points back until they open the area and if it opens a week late, run our hunt a week late. If it opens more than a week late then call the 9 of us the have permits and see if you want to keep your permit or turn it in for points based on whether you feel like you can get it done or not in the time left. So there is 9 days between when archery closes and muzzleloader opens so they have room to push our end date out that far. So say they open the wilderness on 9/10, move the hunt end date to 9/29, if they don't open it until 9/20, have the hunt end 9/30 but give the 9 of us the option to turn our permit in for points or keep it if you think you can get it done in 10 days. Personally if I was guaranteed 5-7 days of my hunt I would keep my permit. Then if they end up not opening it by the time October rolls around just reimburse all 9 of us our points. I think this would be the best option for us.

Seems reasonable to me and somewhat of a positive outcome for the tag holders.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: ridgefire on August 27, 2015, 03:21:56 PM
Im all for the tag holders that have had their unit shut down get their points back. I know it's mother nature but I feel for them. If they had areas they could hunt in the unit it would be different.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Woodchuck on August 27, 2015, 03:38:52 PM
This is not good news.


http://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/weatheralerts/Walla-Walla,WA,United-States/we-city-46.070,-118.342?iso=US
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Elkpiss on August 27, 2015, 04:14:32 PM
How about they let the permit holders have the permit next year AND still have the draw next year. That would only be 12 permits total and since there won't be any state hunter harvest during the season this year it shouldn't affect herd numbers terribly. Just a thought.

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That was a thought of mine too..  instead of 2 people hunting the unit it would be 4.. thats not to bad
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 04:15:51 PM
I have 1 of the 3 Wenaha West tags and we are completely shut out as well. The only difference if they let us  hunt next year on this years permit is that the 9 of us who drew east and west have already had the 3+ months to spend time and money preparing for this hunt. If nobody could draw it next year 9 of 500-600 would be sufferring the loss that we are but nobody knows who those 9 random people are and I bet those 9 random people aren't taking as big of hit as the 9 of us this year are.
I think that they should wait to give us our points back until they open the area and if it opens a week late, run our hunt a week late. If it opens more than a week late then call the 9 of us the have permits and see if you want to keep your permit or turn it in for points based on whether you feel like you can get it done or not in the time left. So there is 9 days between when archery closes and muzzleloader opens so they have room to push our end date out that far. So say they open the wilderness on 9/10, move the hunt end date to 9/29, if they don't open it until 9/20, have the hunt end 9/30 but give the 9 of us the option to turn our permit in for points or keep it if you think you can get it done in 10 days. Personally if I was guaranteed 5-7 days of my hunt I would keep my permit. Then if they end up not opening it by the time October rolls around just reimburse all 9 of us our points. I think this would be the best option for us.
I would also be ok with this!
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: coldsteel3d on August 27, 2015, 04:54:48 PM
I think that would be my number one choice and I think that it would be the most fair outcome for everyone involved, I don't see why anyone who has 1 of the 9 tags would have a problem with it and we would still have an oppurtunity to possibly hunt our permits. I don't see why anybody would have a problem with it, there is only 9 people who are completely shut out so it is not like they would have to call hundreds of people. If we could get all 9 people to support this idea and suggest it to Paul Wik I wonder if he would even entertain this idea?
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Mxracer532 on August 27, 2015, 05:43:25 PM
I think that would be my number one choice and I think that it would be the most fair outcome for everyone involved, I don't see why anyone who has 1 of the 9 tags would have a problem with it and we would still have an oppurtunity to possibly hunt our permits. I don't see why anybody would have a problem with it, there is only 9 people who are completely shut out so it is not like they would have to call hundreds of people. If we could get all 9 people to support this idea and suggest it to Paul Wik I wonder if he would even entertain this idea?

When i talked to Paul monday he said what happens is out of his hands.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: soccerguy on August 27, 2015, 05:57:27 PM
Maybe just for inspiration, but here is a 183 buck shot in Unit 27 about 1976.  Hunted the Alma Mesa area.  Not a lot of deer back then but there was some quality.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: JoeE on August 27, 2015, 06:00:37 PM
So if we can't hunt the blues for elk we should hunt mulies in Alma Mesa??  :dunno:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: PlateauNDN on August 27, 2015, 06:03:01 PM
So if we can't hunt the blues for elk we should hunt mulies in Alma Mesa??  :dunno:

Is your area closed?
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: JoeE on August 27, 2015, 06:05:49 PM
So if we can't hunt the blues for elk we should hunt mulies in Alma Mesa??  :dunno:

Is your area closed?

My area is the Mill Creek watershed. I had planned on going over and scouting this past weekend but with the fires I was told that I can't get close enough to the shed to do any scouting. I don't think you can get to Table Rock right now. Hopefully something happens by the opener in there onOct 31 because if it was an early archery hunt I doubt they would let us in.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: BENCHLEG on August 27, 2015, 06:32:03 PM
Joe you will b fine all you need is 3 days prior to the hunt and hope for no fog or heavy snow.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: JoeE on August 27, 2015, 07:06:16 PM
Joe you will b fine all you need is 3 days prior to the hunt and hope for no fog or heavy snow.

That's good to hear! I'm glad the hunt is so late in the season with the way this fire season is going.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Firedogg on August 27, 2015, 08:34:22 PM
 Here is how Oregon is handling the tag holders on that side of the line...

" The following is an update from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The ‪#‎GrizzlyBearComplex‬ information office can’t answer questions about tags and permits. If hunters have questions about Bull Elk tags, they should call the ODFW Licensing Division at 503 947 6101.
We expect to have information from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife later this week, and we will pass it along.
“ODFW has called Wenaha Branch Bull Hunters (256R1) and told them they can exchange their tags free of charge prior to the start of archery season for a general elk archery tag. Those who decide to exchange will get all of their original preference points reinstated and a new point issued as if they were unsuccessful.
In order to take advantage of this the following needs to happen PRIOR to August 29th:
· Exchange 256R1 one bull elk tag for general archery elk tag at any ODFW office with POS capability
· Exchange will be made for free
· If the person has not bought their tag yet they should still come into an ODFW office so we have a record of them declining their 256R1 tag and purchasing a general archery elk tag.
Licensing/Controlled hunts will provide hunter with the proper way to document this transaction – would suggest that we include a signature as a record.”
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on August 28, 2015, 01:06:24 AM
I haven't worked the numbers so this may have no relevance, but wouldn't Oregone he different due to the preference point system and not a bonus point. Most of the tag holders are probably at or near max points. So for them exchanging their tag could make sense as they will probably be looking at a draw again in the next few years. I could be.completely wrong though.

I like Grundys idea.

My thought was similar to coldsteel in that they could offer the tag holders.the option to "extend" their hunt. Although I would rather have it go through the end of the year. Banking on getting the woods back open by then. Maybe let them hunt the the other season with a lesser weapon? Or whatever weapon was open but limited to archery when no season open.  They could hold as an option with the points refund for those tag holders who would rather do that.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: nwhunter on August 28, 2015, 06:47:08 AM
Its a bad deal all around with these fires and I feel bad for the folks who have these extremely coveted tags. I drew a Wenaha archery tag in 2007 the year after the last big fire when people who had tags didnt get to hunt during archery. Would it have been fair if I hadnt gotten to hunt that year because the previous guys had gotten a rain check? No and it also wouldnt have been the same hunt if there were twice the guys in there that year either if they had let us all hunt. Sure these are big units but trust me ALOT of the tagholders are spending most of there time in the same general areas and it is really a hunt you want to be special and not bumping into the other tagholder all the time. If there werent any of these fires and you had a tag and got in an accident today and broke your legs and couldnt hunt I'm sure you would be real happy if the state would let you get your points back because you couldnt hunt right? I really feel bad for you guys, heck I feel worse for Dave the outfitter and the mess he is in with hunts he has booked and trails and camps that will be a mess for years because mother nature threw us a nasty curve ball. Take your points back and hope you draw in the next few years it will be even better because thats all your gonna get and really thats all you should expect.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Sumpnneedskillin on August 28, 2015, 08:15:31 AM
Just saw this on the Lewiston Tribune FB feed

Some hunts may go up in smoke: Massive wildfires have state agencies scrambling to adjust as hunting seasons arrive. http://bit.ly/1UhyreN

Some bow hunters in Washington could miss out on elk hunts in the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness because of fires there, but Idaho has no plans to cancel or alter any of its hunts near the many blazes plaguing the Clearwater region.

The Umatilla National Forest has closed the entire Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness Area in the Blue Mountains, where a pair of branch-antler archery bull elk hunts are scheduled to start Sept. 5. Paul Wik, district wildlife biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at Clarkston, said it looks probable hunters who hold the lottery-awarded permits won't be able to hunt.

"At this point, we are assuming that the wilderness will not open back up for public entry in time, unless the weather changes," he said.

The department is working to restore special permit preference points to people who drew permits if they are not able to use them. Washington has a system where hunters build up points over time that give them more favorable drawing odds. Wik said if the area remains closed and the hunt has to be canceled, those holding the permits would relinquish the permits and likely be able to use the preference points in next year's drawing.

"We will reinstate points they used to draw the tags," Wik said. "We are still working through that process at the headquarters level."
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: Woodchuck on August 28, 2015, 08:22:12 AM
I feel for the folks with these permits and the sad part is, if the reinstate points it only makes point creep that much worse. Just can't win.  :bash:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: 2MANY on August 28, 2015, 08:39:44 AM
Its a bad deal all around with these fires and I feel bad for the folks who have these extremely coveted tags. I drew a Wenaha archery tag in 2007 the year after the last big fire when people who had tags didnt get to hunt during archery. Would it have been fair if I hadnt gotten to hunt that year because the previous guys had gotten a rain check? No and it also wouldnt have been the same hunt if there were twice the guys in there that year either if they had let us all hunt. Sure these are big units but trust me ALOT of the tagholders are spending most of there time in the same general areas and it is really a hunt you want to be special and not bumping into the other tagholder all the time. If there werent any of these fires and you had a tag and got in an accident today and broke your legs and couldnt hunt I'm sure you would be real happy if the state would let you get your points back because you couldnt hunt right? I really feel bad for you guys, heck I feel worse for Dave the outfitter and the mess he is in with hunts he has booked and trails and camps that will be a mess for years because mother nature threw us a nasty curve ball. Take your points back and hope you draw in the next few years it will be even better because thats all your gonna get and really thats all you should expect.

Oh my.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: coldsteel3d on August 28, 2015, 09:43:57 AM
If I got in an accident and broke my legs I'd still figure out a way to be in the woods!  :chuckle: I'd make some kind of all terrain wheel chair! Or maybe ride a horse! But atleast I would have the opportunity to be in the woods or get my points back!
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: 71Shovelhead on August 28, 2015, 07:13:00 PM
My Buddy has a Tucannon tag and we are scheduled to pack in with Dave Waldren on September 5th. We have been watching this situation very closely. Not sure whats going to happen. WDFW doesn't seem to know for sure what they are going to do. Oh well it only took 20 years to draw who knows.

Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: jackelope on August 28, 2015, 08:43:52 PM

If I got in an accident and broke my legs I'd still figure out a way to be in the woods!  :chuckle: I'd make some kind of all terrain wheel chair! Or maybe ride a horse! But atleast I would have the opportunity to be in the woods or get my points back!

Can't have any wheels on the ground in a wilderness area.

:dunno:
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: SkookumHntr on August 28, 2015, 08:47:55 PM
Jackalope, work on not being a dip *censored*!
Title: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: jackelope on August 28, 2015, 09:32:52 PM
Jackalope, work on not being a dip *censored*!

It was more intended to be a joke, to go with his joke. Hence his :chuckle: and my :dunno: . 
But thanks for the tip.
Since we're on the topic though, and I'm being called a dip-something, you do know that that is a fact I assume, that wheeled anything inside the wilderness boundaries is illegal.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: HUNTINCOUPLE on August 28, 2015, 09:35:38 PM
If I got in an accident and broke my legs I'd still figure out a way to be in the woods!  :chuckle: I'd make some kind of all terrain wheel chair! Or maybe ride a horse! But atleast I would have the opportunity to be in the woods or get my points back!


Yep horse would work great in the wilderness. No wheels........
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: idahohuntr on August 28, 2015, 10:00:36 PM
Sounds pretty clear the only option will be reinstate points...no tags next year or hunt extension - which is what I expected and have been hearing.  If I were a tag holder - I would hold onto my tag to the bitter end and pray for substantial weather changes before season closes...unless you have a huge number of points and thus a reasonable shot at getting the tag again.  Sadly - looking at draw odds, if you only have 10 or so points, your odds of drawing this tag again, factoring in point creep...not real good.  Looking at the numbers, Wenaha East tag holders drew with 5, 5, 8, 9, 14, and 17 pts.  The guy with 17 and maybe the 14 would be about the only ones I would consider making sure I got my points back.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: SkookumHntr on August 29, 2015, 06:03:30 AM
My weather ap on my phone has rain and the lows getting like really cold Wednesday and Thursday! It says lows 45 in centralia with rain? That would be snow in the mountains! Couldnt be !?
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: buglebrush on August 29, 2015, 06:58:45 AM
Didn't read the whole thread, but in my mind the best way to do this would be to reissue next year plus the regular amount.  Certainly wouldn't hurt to have double the amount for one year.  Same amount overall.  Should be simple really. 
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: BLUEBULLS on August 29, 2015, 07:45:23 AM
Didn't read the whole thread, but in my mind the best way to do this would be to reissue next year plus the regular amount.  Certainly wouldn't hurt to have double the amount for one year.  Same amount overall.  Should be simple really.

It would have an effect. A lot of tagholders concentrate in the same small areas.  I'm really hoping the elk have done well and the habitat comes  back as it should. It would suck to have tag numbers go down in these units for future years.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: trophyhunt on August 29, 2015, 08:29:44 AM
I agree bluebulls, it sucks to have this happen but doubling the tags next year I don't think overall is a good idea.  I the area that is burning will be nice and green next year, it's crazy how fast things go from black to green after a burn.  I also hope the animals are getting out of harms way, Obviously the residents as well.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: jackelope on August 29, 2015, 08:48:52 AM
Didn't read the whole thread, but in my mind the best way to do this would be to reissue next year plus the regular amount.  Certainly wouldn't hurt to have double the amount for one year.  Same amount overall.  Should be simple really.

It would have an effect. A lot of tagholders concentrate in the same small areas.  I'm really hoping the elk have done well and the habitat comes  back as it should. It would suck to have tag numbers go down in these units for future years.

Agreed. Just like anywhere else...the elk and the hunters are in the spots they are in for a reason. You have trail access or water or a concentration of elk or whatever....and you end up with multiple hunters in the same general areas. Double the # of hunters and you end up with guys on top of each other. If you think that doesn't happen, ask nwhunter or bluebulls or other folks who hunt and know that country.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: jackelope on August 29, 2015, 08:53:23 AM

My weather ap on my phone has rain and the lows getting like really cold Wednesday and Thursday! It says lows 45 in centralia with rain? That would be snow in the mountains! Couldnt be !?

Not necessarily the Blues, but it looks like they might get some rain. Hopefully it doesn't evaporate before it hits the ground.
Title: Re: Fires and Wenaha East Archery bull tag
Post by: B.G.hunter on August 29, 2015, 09:01:02 AM

My weather ap on my phone has rain and the lows getting like really cold Wednesday and Thursday! It says lows 45 in centralia with rain? That would be snow in the mountains! Couldnt be !?

Not necessarily the Blues, but it looks like they might get some rain. Hopefully it doesn't evaporate before it hits the ground.
I hope the weather man is correct we need rain in the worst way.
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