Hey, what about Mt. St. Helens and related Weyerhaeuser lands? I've never been down there for elk season, but it sounds like there are lots of bulls and lots of other hunters. I am also reconsidering Western Washington. It looks like those GMUs around the blast zone put out 300+ bulls a year. Is there a hunting party in every clear cut? I'd like to find a map of roads that will be closed so I could find a good area I can hike in. Is there one available yet? Or will I have to wait until fall?

I share your frustrations about the WDFW. I know they can't be blamed for some tough winters and massive dieoffs, but there are issues within their control as well. Also, from some of my experiences it seems there is a lot of Indian poachers. They poach a lot more than just whales w/.50 cals.