HUNTING
WINNIE BROWNING PHOTO
Grant County is a popular spot for bow and rifle hunters, with eight of the northeastern
big game units located either partially or fully within its borders.
A
t certain times, the Phillip
Schneider Wildlife Area is
also a hunting setting.
Controlled
hunting
seasons are staggered
throughout the year.
Tag drawings determine when and
where hunters may hunt.
There are controlled seasons for
bighorn sheep, Rocky Mountain
goat, black bear, pronghorn ante-
lope, deer and elk. There are also
general seasons for deer or elk bow
hunting, and black bear and cougar
hunts.
Bird hunters take part in pursuit of
upland game birds, including
grouse, chukar, California and
mountain quail, and migratory game
birds, such as duck and geese.
For more information: See the
Oregon Big Game and Game Bird
regulations booklets, or view them at
www.dfw.state.or.us
SHOOTING RANGES
Enjoy target shooting? Need a place to safely sight in your rifle? Enjoy competitive shooting
events? Various shooting events take place throughout the year. The ranges also offer
by-permission use of their facilities.
SENECA TRAP RANGE
At the south end of Seneca, turn west on Camp Creek Road a short distance.
Facility includes two trap ranges and one skeet range, a 100-yard small arms range. Restroom
facilities are on site.
Almost every Sunday beginning at 10 a.m., all are welcome to join in. It’s $4 for 25 bird shoots,
and $2 for 10 practice bird shoots. The pot is split, depending on what is taken in. Weather
permitting, barbecues are fired up; otherwise, finger foods are brought.
For more information: Call Dean Nodine, 541-575-1918.
BEAR CREEK RIFLE RANGE
Located .9 mile north of Highway 26, 10 miles east of John Day, between John Day and Prairie City.
This site features a covered, eight-bay firing line and one of the best rifle ranges in the west.
The 1,000-yard range has become popular with many shooting enthusiasts, including black
powder fans. Set in a small valley, with targets scattered throughout, the range also accommodates
pistol shooters. An archery range is planned. The site features year-round portable toilets.
A scorekeeper’s booth was completed in spring 2011, built in an old-west style with a false front.
Those using the course at other times must be with a trained safety officer who is a member.
For more information on Bear Creek Rifle Range: Call president Don Mooney, 541-575-0064.
Heading up the black powder group is Jim Sproul, who can be reached at 541-620-0231.
For more on the shotgun enthusiasts group: Call Carroll Walton, 541-820-4624.
28 | OFFICIAL GRANT COUNTY VISITOR GUIDE 2015 | MyEagleNews.com