This large GMU is located on the north bank of the Columbia River and rises from a modest 200-ft to a tad over 2,600-ft in the north before dropping back down to 400-ft along Road 6 which serves as the northern boundary. The eastern boundary is a combination of Chehalis and Elochoman River, and the western border is a straight line down the middle of a wide draw to Salmon Creek and on to Deep River. Public land largely consists of two blocks of state land, which are also the most densely forested. The largest share of land is owned by timber companies and has been heavily logged creating a patchwork of vegetation. The closer you get to the Columbia River, Skamokawa, and the two southern corners, the more you will see rural properties, small acre summer homes and farms. Whether you choose to hunt public state land, large timber company ground, or gain access to smaller private land, there are hunting opportunities for those willing to do a bit of homework. There are significant numbers of deer throughout this unit, however, it is also heavily hunted so it is best to find areas that are not traveled as often which can be challenging.

Pay for limited access to timber company land.

This unit holds rugged, steep rolling low elevation forests with a maze of creeks and cuts combined with a patchwork of clear cut in various stages of regrowth. Undergrowth ranges from grasses and flowers, young saplings, and timber in all age classes. This is rugged terrain requiring a GPS as cell phone coverage is nonexistent in most areas. Along the Columbia River and flatter low ground, you will find farming and single-family rural properties.

There are two sizeable tracts of state land and the rest is all private. However, the largest land holders are timber companies with a variety of access programs worth checking into. Carry a GPS to know exactly where you stand in this rugged steep country. There are roads everywhere throughout the unit, however, some roads and trails may close at any time or be closed to motorized traffic, watch for posted signs. Cell phones don’t work in a large portion of this unit, go in prepared.

This area is heavily forested with enormous clearcuts in various stages of regrowth. The WDFW reports elk and deer nuisance complaints by the timber companies, as replanted seedlings are being damaged. Open grass meadows from logging and farming do very well in this wet environment.

Since the majority of the unit is private, there are limited primitive camping spots. Various fire bans and forest road closures may happen, so double check any restrictions or permits necessary prior to your trip. If you are more interested in a bed and a shower and staying closer to gas stations, restaurants, and a grocery store, your best options will be in the tiny town of Pe Ell in the northeast corner, and Cathlamet, which is well outside of the unit to the east.