SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife encourages hunters to avoid long lines and purchase their buck deer, fall bear and general season cougar tags before the Sept. 28 deadline.

Tags may be purchased at any ODFW office during normal business hours or at any of the more than 600 license agents in Oregon. Hunters who want to exchange their tag must do so prior to the seasons for which they are valid and only at an ODFW office.

The last day hunters can purchase tags for controlled buck deer centerfire hunts in eastern Oregon, general season centerfire buck deer in western Oregon, general season fall bear and general season cougar is Sept. 28. For Oregon residents, deer tags are $19.50 and bear and cougar tags are $11.50 each. Most rifle buck deer seasons begin Sept. 29.

Hunting tips can be found in the department’s Outdoor Recreation Report and the Fall Hunting Forecast. Check the ODFW website at www.dfw.state.or.us and click on Hunting Resources. Information on fire restrictions can be found at the same site.

The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.