Full Breakdown
Oregon's 2025 Fall Hunting Season: Key Changes and CWD Testing
9/27/2025, 1:39:36 PM
Overview of the Fall Hunting Season
Oregon's 2025 fall hunting season is set to bring significant changes for the state's over 300,000 hunters. Notably, for the first time in nearly three decades, waterfowl hunters will be allowed to keep three pintails per day. The season opens on October 4 for mule deer, with favorable weather conditions expected, including cooler temperatures and potential rainfall.
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Concerns
A major focus this season is the threat of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a fatal illness affecting deer, elk, and moose. CWD has been detected in neighboring states—Idaho, Washington, and California—but has not yet appeared in Oregon. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has implemented a robust testing program to monitor for the disease, urging hunters to participate in testing to prevent its spread. Mandatory CWD check stations will be established across the state, including locations in Prineville and Baker City, where hunters must stop if transporting harvested deer or elk.
CWD Testing Procedures
Testing for CWD is streamlined and takes approximately 10 minutes. Hunters can submit samples at designated check stations, ODFW offices, or participating taxidermists and meat processors. Positive test results will prompt direct communication from a biologist or veterinarian to the hunter. The ODFW has tested over 30,000 samples in the past two decades without detecting CWD in Oregon, but officials emphasize the importance of early detection to protect local wildlife populations.
Wildlife Population Outlook
Biologists report generally positive conditions for deer and elk herds following a milder winter. Mule deer populations are in good shape across most of eastern Oregon, while Rocky Mountain elk numbers are stable or above average in many areas. Roosevelt elk are experiencing a notable increase, particularly on the west slopes of the Coast Mountain Range. However, hunters are advised to be cautious, as hybrid black- and white-tailed deer have been reported in northwest Oregon, with only Columbian black-tailed deer being legal to hunt.
Official Statements & Responses
Ashley Reeder, ODFW’s CWD Surveillance Coordinator, stated, “Positive detections in nearby states are very concerning. We are asking successful hunters to participate in testing this season to stay ahead of CWD spread.” The ODFW emphasizes that while there is no evidence of human infection from CWD, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends avoiding consumption of meat from infected animals.
Criticism & Opposition
Some hunters express concerns about the potential impact of CWD testing on their hunting experience, citing the inconvenience of mandatory check stations. However, the ODFW maintains that these measures are crucial for safeguarding Oregon's wildlife.
What's Next
As the hunting season progresses, the ODFW will continue its surveillance efforts and monitor wildlife populations closely. Hunters are encouraged to stay informed about regulations and testing locations through the ODFW website.
