I just came back from my first elk hunt and I had a great time! I chose one of the sponsors listed on this web site, Old Stone Fence Hunting Adventures as I had never been on an elk hunt before. Old Stone Fence is a hunting preserve in upstate NY. I took a beautiful 7 x 7, that I estimate scored at 400+.

The day was crystal clear and about 4 below zero when we started out. It had snowed 2 days before and there was about 4 inches of the white stuff on the ground. It was the powdery kind that makes it easy to move through the woods silently. We were making our way to the stand when we came across several elk moving through the woods. We scouted out 7 or 8 elk and I was ready to take an 8 x 8 when I spotted a huge bull bringing up the rear. He was quietly picking his way through the timbers when I put the crosshairs on him. I counted the points and saw that his rack was much longer. My guide told me he estimated the bull to score between 375 and 400. We waited until he came to a small clearing before I took the safety off and squeezed off a round.

I had been told that elk were tough to take down and after putting a shot through both lungs and the elk never flinched, I believe it. At first I thought I had missed because the bull didn't react like he had just been hit. The guide told me it was a good hit but the bull just walked off. We trailed him for a few minutes and then I had another opportunity for a second shot. It was only after the second shot that his legs became rubbery and it was clear he was going down.

If anyone is considering going on an elk hunt and you'd like to bring back something for the time and money invested, I heartily recommend this outfitter. It's not the Rockies but you'll be treated honestly and you'll have something to hang on the wall. Hope you enjoy the pictures! Take care and God bless!

http://photos.yahoo.com/bc/kl_willia...t+2002&.src=ph