Last year I bought a Cougar tag that went to waste. I don't want to waste anymore money! But I know the year I don't buy one is the year I'll see one. I hunt Manastash, Clockum and the hills at Joe Watt for deer and elk. Am I wasting my time keeping my eyes open? Any ideas on where to go in Washington for better luck?

I think they're everywhere, including near school yards in the small towns...but they're smart enough to stay out of sight most of the time.

Just from what I've heard...if you aren't hunting w/ dogs (which is now illegal) your best bet is to cruise forest service roads in the winter and cut a trail. Then follow it...

It's very hard work but eventually the critter may get scared and go to a tree or hid in a deep thick area.

Be careful.


This is one animal that would as likely track you as you track it.

forgot to mention...

this means hunting in snow.

In Idaho they do it in the snow w/ dogs and snowmobiles and it's still tough work.

In Idaho it's tough work with dogs and without the snow, that is if the wolves havn't eaten your dogs.

I have a friend that does fairly well in the Clockum area. He hunts in snow and gets on a trial and stays with it.