I too have hunted with the orange army during rifle season south of where you are hunting in Cle Elum WA in Taneum district for many years.. we've taken all cows and spikes.. the best eating by far! Far too many hunters and a lot of hunters that shouldn't be in the woods. I can't tell you how many times I've heard people empty their semi-autos in quick succession.. IMHO if you can't hit it with the first shot, go home.

I've since moved over to bow hunting and man is that a nice change a pace.. a lot fewer hunters, better weather.. not as easy to kill an elk but then that is not my number one priority.

Nice spike, that guy is going to be a good eater!