Oregon Bear Elk Deer (Buck) Deer (Antlerless)

Unit 22 (Dixon)

Oregon Hunting Guide — Bear, Elk, Deer (Buck), Deer (Antlerless)

Unit 722 (Ochoco Bear) is located in Central Oregon and is managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Bear hunting in this unit is allocated through ODFW's controlled-hunt draw, so a successful application is the first step for any hunter planning to pursue bear here. Use the Draw Odds chart on this page to see current trendlines for this hunt.

View Draw Odds Oregon Hunting Guide

Bear Hunting in Unit 22

Where to Find Bear in Unit 722

Black bears in this Oregon unit use a mix of mixed-conifer timber, old logging country, and forage-rich drainages. Seasonal food sources drive most of the day-to-day movement.

Spring Green-Up

In spring, bears focus on south-facing slopes and old clear-cuts where grass and forbs green up first. Glass these openings in the first and last hour of daylight.

Berry Patches and Mast

Later in the year, bears key on huckleberry and other berry-producing draws, as well as any available mast and fall forage. Identify productive patches and glass the edges patiently.

Travel Corridors

Old roads, ridges, and drainage bottoms act as travel routes between feeding and bedding cover. Logging roads that have grown in are often excellent ambush and glassing options.

How to Hunt Bear in Unit 722

Spot-and-stalk is the core method for Oregon black bear hunts. Good optics and patient glassing do most of the work.

Glassing Routine

Pick high points over productive feeding areas and spend the first and last hours of daylight glassing. Multiple animals often use the same openings on a regular schedule.

Calling and Ambush

Where legal and effective, predator calling can bring in a curious bear during the right conditions. Ambush setups along travel corridors near food sources are another reliable approach.

Judging Animals

Take time to judge body size, ear-to-head ratio, and leg length before shooting. Avoid any bear with cubs at heel.

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Bear Success Rates

Recent draw results and success trends for Unit 722 bear are shown in the Draw Odds chart on this page. Refer to that tool for hunter-reported success and applicant trends rather than summary estimates.

Bear Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Archery— Controlled	4840	5,166	89.0%	4

Data from 2025 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

Oregon uses a 75/25 controlled-hunt draw that combines preference points and a random allocation. Unit 722 bear tags are awarded through that system, and the Draw Odds chart on this page reflects the current trendlines for applicants and tags. Use that chart alongside ODFW's controlled-hunt navigation page when building your application strategy.

Elk Hunting in Unit 22

The Dixon unit (WMU 222) sits in the north Oregon Coast Range, a rain-soaked patchwork of industrial timberland, small blocks of BLM, and private ownership that dominates the unit. Roosevelt elk thrive here in cut-over replant stands and riparian alder bottoms between 500 and 3,000 feet. Public access is limited, and most serious hunters rely on walk-in timber-company permit systems. Over the last three years the unit produced 64 tags against 200 applicants for a 32% long-term odds picture that shifts sharply between the preference and random pools.

Where to Find Elk in the Dixon Unit

Roosevelt elk in the Dixon unit are patterned around timber-harvest age classes and the Coast Range's dense mid-elevation canopy. Because the unit is overwhelmingly private timberland, we key on ownership boundaries as much as topography.

Archery Season (August–September)

Early-season bulls work 2- to 6-year-old replant blocks for browse at first and last light, then slip back into adjacent 30-year-plus stands to bed. The North Fork Trask drainage, the Willamina Creek headwaters, and the patchwork around the Van Duzer Corridor all produce consistent sign. Focus on edges where cutover meets older timber within 150 yards of a gated road.

Rifle Season (Late Coast Bull)

Fall rains pull herds out of the highest ridges and concentrate them in clearcuts above alder-choked creek bottoms. Sit the upwind side of recent cuts during the first two hours of daylight. Once the Oregon rain truly sets in, elk will stand in the open through midday because they simply cannot hear or smell well in the weather.

Seasonal Patterns

Dixon herds move very little in absolute terms — we are talking about a 1,500-foot vertical range across the entire unit. What matters far more is logging activity, gate status, and which timber-company permit block is open in a given week.

How to Hunt Elk in the Dixon Unit

Dixon is a private-land access puzzle first and a tactics problem second. We start every Dixon hunt on the computer, not in the woods.

Lock Down Access Before You Hunt

Weyerhaeuser, Hancock Forest Management, and Stimson each run paid walk-in or drive-in permit programs in this region. Permit windows often sell out in minutes when they release each spring. If we do not hold a permit, we are restricted to scattered BLM parcels and the small amount of state forest — plan accordingly.

Still-Hunt the Replants

Wet Coast Range clearcuts let us move quietly if we stay on skid trails and avoid breaking brush. Still-hunt into the wind through 4- to 8-year replants, stopping every 20 yards to glass the edges with 10x binoculars. Bulls bed surprisingly close to roads on weekdays when logging stops.

Bugle Sparingly

Unlike Rocky Mountain elk, Roosevelt bulls in the Coast Range rarely rip a full rutting bugle. Use soft cow calls and the occasional single chuckle. If we do not get a response in 10 minutes, move — these elk are not going to play the call-and-response game like northeast Oregon bulls will.

Pack-Out Logistics

Most Dixon bulls die within a half mile of a road, but the brush is vicious. Carry a quality saw, expect to quarter in place, and plan for wet, muddy pack-outs. A game cart helps on timber-company roads but is worthless off them.

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Elk Success Rates

Dixon is a tag-limited unit with 200 applicants and 64 tags issued over the last three years — a 32% combined odds picture. Success rates in Coast Range Roosevelt units typically run 15–20% rifle and 8–12% archery. Harvest is driven almost entirely by access: permit-holders on active timber-company programs convert at two to three times the rate of hunters working public scraps.

Elk Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Archery— Controlled	11	41	26.8%	9
Rifle— Controlled	10	15	66.7%	5

Data from 2025 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

Oregon allocates controlled-hunt tags on a 75% preference-point / 25% random split. With 64 tags against 200 three-year applicants, the preference pool clears in 1–3 points for most Dixon hunts, while the random 25% gives zero-point applicants a realistic 6–10% shot every year. Applicants chasing the bull tag should build points while applying, since a clean random hit is always in play.

Deer (Buck) Hunting in Unit 22

The Dixon WMU (WMU 22) is an Oregon Coast Range deer unit holding black-tailed deer in dense second-growth conifer, alder riparian corridors, and regenerating clearcuts. Controlled draw tags maintain manageable hunting pressure on this productive coastal habitat under Oregon's 75/25 preference-point/random draw system.

Where to Find Deer in the Dixon Unit

Dixon unit black-tailed deer concentrate in regenerating clearcuts and riparian corridors throughout this Coast Range WMU.

Clearcut Edges

Recent harvest units 3-10 years post-harvest provide dense browse that concentrates deer at dawn and dusk. Work the edges of clearcuts where mature timber meets open regenerating units. Bucks emerge to feed in openings and retreat to timber for bedding.

Riparian Corridors

Creek drainages funnel deer movement year-round. October rut activity brings bucks into alder and maple bottomlands. Move quietly along stream corridors and look for fresh rubs and scrapes on streamside trees.

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How to Hunt Deer in the Dixon Unit

Stand hunting clearcut edges and slow still-hunting produce the most consistent results in Coast Range units like Dixon.

Clearcut Edge Stands

Set a stand on the mature timber edge overlooking a productive clearcut. Clear shooting lanes to 50-80 yards before season. Scent control is critical in damp coastal air — use scent-free products and hunt with favorable wind.

Still-Hunting Logging Roads

Walk roads and skid trails extremely slowly on wet, still mornings. The Coast Range's heavy rainfall keeps foliage wet for quiet movement. Scan ahead continuously — blacktails often appear at road edges feeding on roadside vegetation.

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Deer (Buck) Success Rates

Dixon and other Coast Range controlled deer tags see rifle success rates of 15-25%. The draw structure limits hunter pressure and supports better buck age structure than unmanaged general seasons in similar habitat. Archery tags typically run lower at 8-12%.

Deer (Buck) Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Rifle— Controlled	15	952	1.5%	28

Data from 2025 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

Oregon's 75/25 preference-point/random draw split means 75% of Dixon unit deer tags go to highest-point applicants and 25% are allocated randomly each year. Hunt code 122 is accessible to newer applicants through the random pool. Check ODFW controlled hunt draw statistics at myodfw.com for current applicant counts and historical odds.

Deer (Antlerless) Hunting in Unit 22

Hunt code 622 (W Dixon) is an antlerless deer tag within WMU 22. Antlerless tags allow harvest of does to help manage deer populations in balance with available habitat and landowner tolerance. Oregon's draw system controls harvest through limited tag availability.

Where to Find Deer in the W Dixon Hunt Area

W Dixon antlerless deer (WMU 22) are distributed throughout the unit's habitat. Doe and fawn groups are less wary than mature bucks and use a wider range of habitat types.

Feeding Areas and Field Edges

Clearcut edges, meadows, and agricultural fields concentrate deer in predictable locations. Scout feeding areas before season.

Water and Travel Corridors

Streams and water sources concentrate deer movement. Travel corridors between bedding and feeding areas are consistent locations for antlerless deer throughout the season.

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How to Hunt the W Dixon Antlerless Hunt

Antlerless deer hunting in the W Dixon area offers flexible tactics — doe groups are less wary and more predictable than mature bucks.

Stand Hunting

Set a stand or blind overlooking a known feeding area or water source. Antlerless deer often move in groups. Hunt low-light periods for the most consistent activity.

Shot Placement and Legal Animals

Read your tag and current ODFW regulations carefully before hunting. Antlerless tags have specific restrictions on legal animals — confirm compliance before shooting.

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Deer (Antlerless) Success Rates

Antlerless deer tags in Oregon typically see high success rates — 30-50% or higher — because does and fawn groups are more abundant and predictable than mature bucks. The antlerless tag system allows efficient population management while providing quality hunting opportunities.

Deer (Antlerless) Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Archery— Controlled	55	467	11.8%	9

Data from 2025 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

Hunt code 622 is a controlled antlerless tag under Oregon's 75/25 preference-point/random draw system. Antlerless tag demand varies by unit and year — check ODFW draw statistics for current applicant counts. Apply at myodfw.com.

Unit Logistics & Expectations

Planning Notes

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Camp Sites

Dispersed camping is widely available on public land, with some developed campgrounds on national forest and BLM land.

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Water

Generally good — streams and springs are common in drainage bottoms across most of the unit.

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Road Conditions

Mix of paved access roads, gravel forest roads, and rougher spur roads. 4WD and high clearance are helpful for deeper access.

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Terrain Difficulty

Moderate to strenuous — timbered ridges and drainages typical of Oregon mountain country, with notable elevation changes.

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Hunting Pressure

Moderate — pressure is concentrated near road systems and lighter once you move away from main access points.

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Weather

Mountain and forest conditions with cool mornings, mild afternoons in early season, and increasing chance of rain and snow as the season progresses.

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Cell Service

Spotty to none in the backcountry. Expect coverage only near paved highways and larger towns.

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Nearest Town

Nearest services are in small rural Oregon towns typical of the region. Stock up on fuel, groceries, and any last-minute gear before heading into the unit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for Unit 722 bear?

Unit 722 bear tags are allocated through ODFW's controlled-hunt draw. Apply through the ODFW controlled-hunt application process by the state's published deadline, using the hunt number that matches this unit and season.

Is Unit 722 a good choice for bear?

Check the Draw Odds chart on this page for current applicant and tag trends. Comparing this unit's draw odds and tag counts to neighboring units is the most reliable way to judge whether it fits your point level and hunt goals.

Is Dixon mostly private land?

Yes. The Dixon unit (WMU 222) is dominated by industrial timberland and private ownership, with only scattered BLM and state forest parcels. Most successful hunters hold paid walk-in or drive-in permits from Weyerhaeuser, Hancock, or Stimson.

How many preference points do I need for a Dixon elk tag?

With 64 tags against 200 three-year applicants, the preference pool typically clears in 1–3 points. Oregon's 25% random allocation gives zero-point applicants a realistic 6–10% shot every year regardless of point balance.

What is the best weapon choice for Dixon?

Rifle seasons produce the highest success rates (15–20%) due to the unit's brushy Coast Range terrain and weather-driven movement. Archery success is lower (8–12%) but offers more time afield during Roosevelt rut.

How do I apply for the Dixon unit deer tag?

Apply through ODFW's controlled hunt system at myodfw.com using hunt code 122. Oregon uses a 75/25 preference-point/random draw split. Purchase preference points annually to improve preference-pool odds, or rely on the 25% random allocation each year.

What is the best season for Dixon unit deer hunting?

Season timing depends on your specific hunt code and weapon type. October rifle seasons typically coincide with the rut in Oregon deer units, which improves buck movement and encounter rates. Check current ODFW regulations for exact season dates.

What animals can I harvest on the W Dixon antlerless tag?

Antlerless tags allow harvest of deer without visible antlers or with antlers below a specified length. Read your tag and current ODFW regulations carefully for exact legal animal definitions for hunt code 622.

How do I apply for the W Dixon antlerless deer tag?

Apply through ODFW's controlled hunt system at myodfw.com using hunt code 622. Oregon's 75/25 draw split means 25% of tags go to random applicants every year regardless of preference points.

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Sources & Verification

Every fact on this page is tied to a primary source below. Last fact-checked 2026-04-18.

Oregon Big Game Regs (eRegulations) — Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife · supports: WMU boundaries and controlled-hunt numbers, Season dates per weapon and species · accessed 2026-04-17
ODFW Big Game Hub — Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife · supports: Species season structures and regulations, Public-access and access-program overviews · accessed 2026-04-17
ODFW Big Game Statistics — Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife · supports: Per-WMU harvest totals and hunter success rates, Population estimates per management unit · accessed 2026-04-17
ODFW Controlled Hunt Navigation — Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife · supports: 75/25 preference-point and random draw structure, Historical draw odds per controlled-hunt number · accessed 2026-04-17

Unit 22 (Dixon)

Bear Hunting in Unit 22

Where to Find Bear in Unit 722

Spring Green-Up

Berry Patches and Mast

Travel Corridors

How to Hunt Bear in Unit 722

Bear Success Rates

Bear Draw Odds

Elk Hunting in Unit 22

Where to Find Elk in the Dixon Unit

Archery Season (August–September)

Rifle Season (Late Coast Bull)

Seasonal Patterns

How to Hunt Elk in the Dixon Unit

Elk Success Rates

Elk Draw Odds

Deer (Buck) Hunting in Unit 22

Where to Find Deer in the Dixon Unit

How to Hunt Deer in the Dixon Unit

Deer (Buck) Success Rates

Deer (Buck) Draw Odds

Deer (Antlerless) Hunting in Unit 22

Where to Find Deer in the W Dixon Hunt Area

How to Hunt the W Dixon Antlerless Hunt

Deer (Antlerless) Success Rates

Deer (Antlerless) Draw Odds

Unit Logistics & Expectations

Explore Related Units

Frequently Asked Questions

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Sources & Verification