Here is the weekly hunting report for selected areas in and around Central Oregon, provided by wildlife biologists for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

CENTRAL ZONE

OPEN: ANTELOPE, ARCHERY BUCK/ELK (opens Aug. 28), EARLY ELK, COUGAR and BEAR

PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT

GENERAL: Recent hot, dry weather has increased fire danger. The Ochoco National Forest and Prineville BLM should be contacted regarding the latest information on motorized access, camping, and increased fire danger. (BLM 541-416-6700, Ochoco National Forest 541-416-6500).

ARCHERY buck and elk seasons open Aug. 28. Conditions are warm, dry, and noisy, which will make hunting challenging. Both deer and elk came through the winter in good shape, with bull and buck ratio’s improved from the 2009 seasons. The hot and dry conditions have heightened fire concerns, and hunters should consult with the Prineville BLM and/or Ochoco National Forest for the latest fire restrictions. Hunters are reminded that the Maury is now a controlled entry unit and they must have the controlled entry deer tag in order to hunt in it.

Early ANTLERLESS ELK hunts are ongoing in portions of the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. These hunts are primarily on private agricultural and range lands where hunters need permission from the landowner. Typically elk move into these hunt areas in greater numbers during the late summer to take advantage of the irrigated pastures and hay fields.

COUGAR are present at all elevations in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. Like coyotes, cougar will be attracted to deer and antelope, but also elk. The Maury and Ochoco units are recommended because of their greater amounts of public lands and better accessibility. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days after harvest. Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure to call first to make an appointment.