Monday, May 18, 2026  |  Oregon's Outdoor Journal
Mount Jefferson Wilderness: A 3-Day Backpacking Loop Through Oregon's Volcanic Spine

Mount Jefferson Wilderness: A 3-Day Backpacking Loop Through Oregon's Volcanic Spine

At 10,497 feet, Mount Jefferson is Oregon's second-highest peak and the anchor of one of the state's most spectacular wilderness areas. This 3-day loop covers the best of the Jefferson Park highlands, alpine lakes, and flower-filled meadows — with a side of genuine solitude if you go at the right time.

By HFR Staff  ·  May 17, 2026
MOA vs. MRAD: Understanding Your Scope's Adjustment System for Long-Range Hunting Success
Shooting

MOA vs. MRAD: Understanding Your Scope's Adjustment System for Long-Range Hunting Success

MOA or MRAD — every long-range hunter faces this choice when buying a scope. This practical guide breaks down both systems, explains the math in plain terms, and helps you pick the one that fits how you actually hunt.

May 17, 2026
Reloading the .270 Winchester: Classic Loads for Deer, Elk, and Everything Between
Reloading

Reloading the .270 Winchester: Classic Loads for Deer, Elk, and Everything Between

The .270 Winchester has been putting venison in freezers since 1925. Here is how to handload it for peak performance on deer, elk, and the open terrain of the Pacific Northwest.

May 17, 2026
Ground Squirrel Varmint Hunting in Oregon's High Desert: A Spring Tradition
Hunting

Ground Squirrel Varmint Hunting in Oregon's High Desert: A Spring Tradition

For Oregon hunters looking to sharpen their skills between big game seasons, Belding's and Columbian ground squirrels offer some of the best rifle practice available — and landowners are often happy to let you hunt for free.

May 17, 2026
Surf Perch Fishing on the Oregon Coast: Tactics for Beach and Jetty Anglers
Fishing

Surf Perch Fishing on the Oregon Coast: Tactics for Beach and Jetty Anglers

Surf perch are one of the most underrated fisheries on the Oregon coast — accessible year-round, no boat required, and willing to bite when other species shut down. Here is how to catch them consistently from the beach and jetties.

May 17, 2026
Spot-and-Stalk Archery Mule Deer in Oregon: DIY Tactics for the High Desert
Archery

Spot-and-Stalk Archery Mule Deer in Oregon: DIY Tactics for the High Desert

Chasing mule deer with a bow across Oregon's open sagebrush and rimrock country is one of the hardest hunts you can attempt. These proven spot-and-stalk tactics will help you close the distance.

May 16, 2026
Reloading the 7mm-08 Remington: Efficient Deer Loads That Punch Above Their Weight
Reloading

Reloading the 7mm-08 Remington: Efficient Deer Loads That Punch Above Their Weight

The 7mm-08 Remington is one of the most accurate and efficient deer cartridges ever made. Here's a complete handloading guide covering powder selection, bullet choices, and load data for Oregon hunting.

May 16, 2026
Duck Hunting in Oregon's Klamath Basin: The Pacific Flyway's Crown Jewel
Hunting

Duck Hunting in Oregon's Klamath Basin: The Pacific Flyway's Crown Jewel

The Klamath Basin hosts some of the most spectacular waterfowl concentrations on the Pacific Flyway. Here's a complete guide to hunting ducks and geese in one of Oregon's premier wetland systems.

May 16, 2026
Oregon Coast Dungeness Crab: A Complete Guide to Recreational Crabbing
Fishing

Oregon Coast Dungeness Crab: A Complete Guide to Recreational Crabbing

Oregon's coast offers world-class Dungeness crab action from Newport to Coos Bay. Here's everything you need to know — gear, tides, bait, and the best bays — to fill your pot this season.

May 16, 2026
Arrow Selection for Elk Hunting: Spine, Weight, FOC, and Why It All Matters at 40 Yards
Archery

Arrow Selection for Elk Hunting: Spine, Weight, FOC, and Why It All Matters at 40 Yards

Choosing the right arrow for elk hunting goes far beyond just picking a spine rating off the chart. This guide breaks down spine selection, arrow weight, FOC balance, and how it all comes together for a lethal setup in the field.

May 15, 2026