HUNTING -- Mule deer numbers seem to be improving, as predicted, in the Okanogan County area as indicated by the number and size of bucks that came into check stations on opening weekend.  

Some deer checked in and checked out voluntarily (click Continue reading to see both photos).

Here's the initial report from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife... more to come:

General Deer Opener –Biologists Fitkin and Heinlen ran the Winthrop deer check station for opening weekend of the general modern firearm season.  We checked 107 hunters with 30 deer.  These numbers suggest a reduction in hunting pressure, but a significant increase in success as compared to last year’s opening weekend.  Thus far, we’re also seeing a higher than average percentage of the harvest in the >4 ½ year old age class as expected including one nice 30” wide buck (see photo). Prospects for the rest of the season remain good, although mild weather will likely keep deer well distributed on the landscape.  Hunters who harvest animals on the weekend are encouraged to bring their deer to the WDFW Deer Check Station located at the Red Barn in Winthrop (some are even showing up on their own).