NORTHWEST REGION Reported by Eddie Wilson, Wildlife Senior Biologist Current Buck Rutting Activity: Some smaller bucks have been on the move over the past week. Mature buck activity has not kicked in yet.
Habitat Conditions: Habitat conditions are good this fall. Vegetative cover is heavier than normal due to a cool, wet summer. Conditions are currently dry, but most winter wheat is up and being used by deer as a food source.
Hunter and Landowner Reports: Landowners are reporting good deer numbers this fall. Hunters were not seeing much for deer movement this past weekend. Warm temperatures this week have slowed deer activity.
Public Land Best Bets: There are a number of wildlife management areas open to deer gun hunting throughout the northwest region, however some WMAs are closed to deer gun hunting and some have controlled hunts only. Be sure to consult the 2023-24 Oklahoma Fishing and Hunting Regulations pertaining to the WMA you intend to hunt prior to entering the WMA. If you have questions regarding WMA regulations, you can also call the biologist or Game Warden responsible for the area you choose to hunt.
Advice for Deer Hunters: Be sure to sight in your rifle prior to the hunt. Bring a range finder and know your limitations. Always have a good pair of binoculars. Bring a deer cart to assist with retrieving your deer.
Biggest Mistakes to Avoid: Research the hunting regulations before you go. Be prepared to hunt all day if you can, not just morning and evening. Always use the wind to your advantage and hunt into the wind.
Opening Morning Expectations: With cooler temperatures forecasted for opening weekend, deer movement should increase. Rut will likely be in full swing sometime during the next week. I expect deer hunting to be good throughout the northwest region. Expect a high number of hunters on WMAs open to deer gun hunting. Good luck!
