At a Glance
494Square Miles
10%Public Land
2,000 - 5,820Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Deer can be found anywhere in the unit and will generally favor the areas well away from major human contact
- In more populated areas be mindful of your shot angles
Hunters reviewing Unit 388 in Grayback, Washington, have noted its challenging terrain, emphasizing steep landscapes that can reward those willing to navigate them with rewarding hunting opportunities. Many suggest the unit can be particularly fruitful in the early season before animals retreat to higher grounds. There is a consensus that studying migratory patterns and being mindful of the weather is crucial for success, especially for elk and deer hunts. Overall, prepared hunters who invest time in scouting and understanding the unit's unique topography and accessibility reports can expect a more successful hunt.
This large unit is found between Yakama Nation Land Reservation and the Columbia River. The northern portion offers the only timber ground as it transitions to open arid scabland and ultimately the Columbia River breaks. The largest tract of public land is the Klickitat Wildlife Area Soda Springs Unit which is roughly 13,000-acres however it can experience heavy hunting pressure, especially on the opener. WDFW manages this as a mule deer unit changing it several years ago from a Blacktail unit. Land access is the first challenge as the bulk of the unit is private. Hunters getting out early to scout and knock on doors set themselves up for the best hunter experience. Elk populations are dramatically less then their deer cousins and small herds can be rather nomadic and easily move miles overnight when pressured. Key private land is best for hunter experience and success.
Deer populations have recently dipped with some blaming this on predation from mountain lions.