Help Needed Understand Elk Areas

[LeeChul]

Is there someone that can explain what exactly an Elk Area is. Can you hunt elk in regular units also? If needed, what kind of special permit do you need to hunt in an Elk Area. Also, anyone know much about this area in Randle? 503.

I'm stationed out of Ft Lewis and it's been such a long time since I've been able to get out and hunt, especially elk, that I would love to hit this November season opener. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. I'm new to the Area, I'm from Idaho origionally... But up here I have no clue where to even begin... If there is a better region someone can point me to that would be

-Rick

 

[dikatry]

If I were you Id hunt on the east side of the cascades. In the Yakima-Ellensburg area. Some of the biggest Elk in the state are taken there every year. There is also an Army base over there with some good hunting, I cant remember the exact name, it is something like the Fire Center. Also, down south near Mt. Saint Helens is good. From the I-5, take exit 21 towards cougar, get on Lewis river road go for a while and get in on some spots up there. Here is the link to Washingtons elk management program.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/elk/
If you look on the left there is some good info on the St Helens herd and where they hang out.

 

[Shane]

Keep in mind the only way you'll shoot a "Big" elk (assuming you are talking about big bulls) over the counter is to hunt on the west side - Olympics.

Great hunting in the Yakima Valley, for sure. But you'll have to apply next year.

Lee, any luck since you've been back?

 

[Dean]

This may be a little late since your last post was from before last season. However, it may help for next fall. An Elk area is simply a small management area within the larger game management area. They are sometimes used for special hunts or permits to control Elk that get where they shouldn't. Since you are stationed at Ft. Lewis you might try Elk hunting in the Ryderwood Boistfort area. That is just south and west of Centralia, Washington and an easy drive from your location. Apply for special pemits in the Margret area near St. Helens. It is permit only and there are a lot of Elk there. South of Pe Ell Washington and the Naselle area are also a good bets for general season but is a little farther for you to drive.

If you want to set down over a cup of coffee and some maps I will direct you to some good local areas for deer and elk. I live just south of Olympia and about 45 minutes from Ft. Lewis. email dean_fay@yahoo.com

 

[Shane]

Right on Dean!