Man, just when I thought I had most of the gear you guys tell me to buy another thing…
Im starting to get excited. I think I’m going to bring the atv just so I have some more options available. I have 2 spots I’ve never been to and one I’ve been to the last 2 years to check out. The spot I’ve been to I called a bull in that I mentioned earlier in the thread but last year in the same are there wasn’t any sign. It will be my third option if the other two don’t work out.
How many potential locations do you usually plan for? I think I might only have time for 3 if I assume two days to find sign or elk.
Thanks for all the input so far!
Good hunting partners that hunt the same style like backcountry elk and sheep hunting are tough to find. Hunt through to the last day, stay positive, stay committed, are hardy and compatible. Not all guys want to bivy out or leave before light and come back in the dark etc.
This year will be different, for the first time ever, we will get two elk down early and spent the rest of the trip relaxing, fishing, making glorious meals and drinking beer, wine and a splash of whiskey.
Sounds like a good time. If you have room next year…hahaha
I am headed towards the Fruitvale/Montrose area. I’ve been lucky to hunt the area a few times for turkey now and elk/whitetail.
Ive been able to scout pretty hard for Elk in April when I was hunting turkey. It was weird when I came across really thick timber and decent creek action how there was a micro climate. In there, I found fresh bull elk sign and I’m sure it’s an elk I saw last Oct. He was a beauty 5x5 so I couldn’t take him with the 6pt restriction. Hence why I am targeting archery this year for any bull!
I appreciate the advice though as It will be hot and dry, so I will stick to those thick timbered areas with water.
Good luck to you as well!!
I actually find turkey season in this area busier than the fall for the most part.
when I was there in April there were turkey hunters all over the place! Which did make it a challenge to get a bird.
either way, I’m super pumped just to get in the bush again and have some time with good friends chasing some screaming elk!! Leaving in 8 days!!
RE the quad... consider taking the quad in predawn to about 3-5 km to where you want to hunt and walk in the rest of the way. I've been sitting quietly watching elk walk along the skidder trails and as soon as they hear a quad they disappear into the trees. Once you have your bull on the ground you can always hike back to the quad and bring it close for an easier retrieval.
One or two location bugles in the pre-dawn darkness to find a bull, then boogie toward him as fast and safe as possible then start cow calling, listen, and be ready for anything! If he replies bugle once (not too big) and go toward him again and cow call. Use a decoy if possible. Also, if you know anyone in the area talk with them in advance and see if they are willing to be on call to help with an extraction. I always welcome those calls and happy to help out another hunter if possible. whether to help blood trail or carry a load. Good luck.
"When you judge another you don't define them, you define yourself."