Being from WI, I have no idea which state provides the best opportunity for hunting out West. I do know its more of who you know then what you know. I have a ten year old that wants an elk bad, as I would love to do a father, son hunt. I also know that he is very athletic and by the time he gets to 16 he will be locked down all fall with sports. So I want to do this when he is 12-15 years old. Planning a few years in advance I know is a good start.

We could care less about lodging, food, comfort. We want elk/whatever else the land would be willing to part with. What states should I avoid and which ones should I begin searching into more???
Thanks in advance.