Grouse hunting opportunities are good in the South Willamette District although few hunters really take advantage of these opportunities. Grouse are widely distributed but are rarely found in concentrations of more that just a few birds. They are often found in steep or brushy terrain that is difficult to hunt. Hunters that are more persistent with their grouse hunting often find hot spots where they can usually count on finding birds. Ruffed grouse are often found along streams especially where there is a wide riparian area and lots of hardwoods.
Mid elevations seem to be the most productive for Ruffed grouse.
Blue grouse are often found on ridge tops especially where there are grassy openings. High elevations are the most productive areas for Blues. Both species of grouse tend to like edges between openings and wooded areas or between different vegetation types. Black-tailed Deer are very abundant but are a challenge to hunt because they get very wary when they know they are being hunted. Deer behavior and use patterns have been changed by years of heavy hunting pressure.