Bend’s forests and deserts are teeming with wildlife from pheasants to elk, quail to mountain lions. Licensed hunters can test their mettle in national forests, craggy mountain ranges, and open grasslands across Central Oregon. Central Oregon makes a perfect destination for hunting adventure, whether you’re a bow hunter or a rifle fan.

For abundant bird hunting, Central Oregon has three hunting preserves that offer large populations of pheasants, chukar, and quail. Terrain and varieties of cover vary greatly and complement any skill level, and hunting guides are always available.

If Big Game trophy animals like deer, elk, antelope, cougar, bear, and coyote are on your list, put in for a draw with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and cross your fingers you’ll nab a tag for fall hunting season.

Drawing for a bow hunting tag is still required, and buck deer and elk archery hunts are popular in the Ochoco unit east of Bend. The Bend Bowmen Archery Club is a great place to get started if you wish to learn more about bow and archery hunting opportunities or hone your skills before heading into the forest.