Hey Wayne, I think of it more as protecting your harvest. The way the bear population is growing out here, I wouldn't be surprised if they open it up year round.. I read an article last year there was an estimated 30,000 bear in the state of Wash. Most living on the West side. and with all these blackberries, I believe it!!

Hey Slee is 10 Johnson's Marsh. I have seen a lot of deer in one area, usually driving out to waterfowl hunt. And it is usually raining. My first time hunting these blacktail was in good weather. We hunted 4 nice days on private property and saw two does the whole time. (and we have three different properties over 800 acreas. Went back second season when it was raining, and saw 25 deer only two bucks but only hunted 6 hrs. I killed my first blacktail that year.

These blacktail have so much cover over here, they can get away with coming out at night, when it is safe. But throw in the rain and they have to move out into the open. So opening weekend, I wont hunt unless it is raining or I am going to hunt where there is a lots of pressure.

This year, I contemplated going back to archery, but am going to hold off maybe till next year. I want another elk, and now that I found the place and figured out how to hunt them in Wash, I believe I will harvest another this year.

Anyway, The rain is back today and I will be in the garage building another cart for my friends bicycle. Take it easy all and talk too you soon.

BRian