How to hunt elk??????
 

I am from illinois and plan on traveling out westin the next couple of years(colorado, wyoming, utah, etc.) and hunt elk on a self-guided hunt. What are some of the best options and locations for someone wishing to hunt public ground for elk (self-guided) with archery equipment.Let me know anything you think I need to consider.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Dude take sharp knives! I went with a buddy last year over in unit 21 and 22! We just spot and stalked! Little bit of a learningcurve but we were getting dialed in! I'll be going back next year and maaybe I can get it done. If you have any questions pm me and I will send you a bunch more info.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Man, talk about a loaded question. First of all, you need to narrow your geography down. In some states, you are prohibited from hunting wilderness areas without an outfitter/guide. Decide how you plan to access the elk. In early seasons, they are high. In late season, they are low and usually more accessible from roads. Don't forget, you'll have several hundred pounds of meat to get back to your camp, and then to your vehicle, if you camp away from the road. I'd start by deciding what your means will be to access the elk, provide a camp, and get the meat out. Are you going to rent horses? Bring you own? Will you be using an ATV? Do you have backcountry camping gear? An RV? Do you prefer to hunt from alodge or motel? Having decided those things will help you narrow your public land choices. If you can tell me those things, I'll tell you what I would look for next.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

i would plan to either camp in tents or stay in a motel. i will be going with a buddy or two. we will have an atv with us. i definitely have the means to set up a nice camp. what months are they high (im assuming like august-september) and what months are they low? what time of the year do you suggest BJ, no pun intended. No outfitter wanted. what kind of help can you give me now, anyone else jump in if you can help???!!!

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

LOLOLOLOLOL..................beaver jack.......LOaded question, no kidding, Well go to Walmart and by the "self guided elk trip for 2" your choice in states, "enjoy your elk with Idaho Potatoes, or Washington Apples...........lol
JUST FOOLin dude ...
Brett

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

the elk move down as the snow starts flying. the elk will be at the timberline and then the move down in elevation to getout of the deep snow. I would suggest you hunt in colorado because i think they still sell over the counter non-resident tags. In wyoming you have to draw a tag and the better the unit the harder it is to draw

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

For a first time elk hunter from Illinois doing a DIY hunt, Colorado is probably a good state. You might consider doing a cow elk hunt. The tag is cheaper and easier to obtain. You want to give some consideration as to when you want to hunt and at what elevation -- these are kind of linked together, as already discussed. The elk tend to stay up high, from what I have learned by reading and talking to people, until during or after second Colorado rifle season . . . because the moderate to heavy snows typically do not arrive until middle or more likely late October (somewhat heavy snows came during first rifle season in 2006, which I hunted and was led to believe was pretty unusual, although not unheard of). "Up high" means about at timberline, maybe 11,500 to 12,000 feet altitude. In much of Colorado, public land is up pretty high and the lower elevations may be privately owned with attendant steep trespass fees required to gain access for hunting.

A good recommendation is to start off reading some general books on elk hunting. Also, go to the Colorado Department of Fish and Game (or whatever the equivalent state agency is called) web page, go to their hunting web page, and order a copy of their Colorado Big Game CD for elk. This CD provides invaluable information on draw odds, location of game at different times of year, and success rates. Study this information carefully. One salient piece of sobering information that can be gleened from this CD is the low success rate of hunters -- perhaps 25% or less. Keep in mind that some highly seasoned, experienced hunters have much higher success rates, thereby indicating a probability of less than 25% of first time, non-native, DIY hunters. I'm not disparaging your plan, just trying to bring you to reality. Plannning and other homework activity certainly can improve your particular odds over not planning and not doing homework on this activity. My first elk hunt in 2006 was a DIY hunt, and I made many mistakes. I think it was a valuable learning experience. I'm planning to go back in 2008.

Being in excellent physical condition is important. Strong legs for constant climbing is necessary. Aerobic conditioning for stamina and endurance to hunt all day for 5 to 7 days with minimal recovery time overnight before having to shake it out of bed and get hiking back out before dawn. If you have not spend several days hiking in the mountains at timberline you might want to go out for a backpacking trip just to see what it is like, to find out if it is your thing. I've been out to the mountains many times but I went out for an overnight backpack/scouting trip in July 2006, and this was a wake up call for my conditioning effort. I was actively conditioning, but I kicked it up a notch based on that overnight trip. I was glad for this increase later, but it still didn't make it a piece of cake even then.

You should have a GPS, it doesn't have to be an expensive one or a topographic map enabled one. Learn how to use it before you go out. Most valuable, in my opinion, are features to mark positions (like where you parked your truck, where you had lunch, where you turned off the trail, where you left your elk meat from your kill) and navigate to any of the marked positions. Take extra batteries. Take a back-up compass and maps.

Have quality sunglasses or mountaineering goggles. At 11,500' the sun is like a knife gouging into your eyes glancing off of boulders and/or snowfields if you don't have good sunglasses or mountaineering goggles. Take lip balm.

As suggested, have a plan for getting the meat out. A realistic plan. Take a backup knife. Keep a knife with you when you are out hunting. Do not plan on dragging your kill back to the truck. Most likely you will need to deal with your kill at the kill site. Even horse equipped hunters gut and quarter the elk up to get it into portions manageable for packing on horses/mules. You might expect an upper limit of 200 LBS of deboned meat from a mature bull elk. If you plan to pack out the meeat on your back you should definitely debone all the meat.

Use clothes which retain warmth when wet (not cotton) and readily dry out. Wool is excellent in this regard. Others like synthetic fleece. Plan to use layers of clothes which can be shed or put back on as you heat up/cool off or as weather changes. Plan to have a means for drying clothes overnight. Being cold all the time can grind on you quickly, so having a way to warm up at night is a good idea. Use good quality hiking/hunting boots that are well broken in. I have read that the hunters who cover the most miles -- 8-10 miles per day on average -- see the most elk, generally. I use Meindl Perfekt Hunters from Cabelas, but surely there are other boots.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Alsatian said it all, think about what you want in a hunt then do some research. Colorado still sells otc tags so its very easy for a non-resident to hunt but you need to do some research on the available units for otc tags or start getting into the draw in other states. There are plenty of people on this website to help you out but narrow down your plans so that we know what you're interested in.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Check the terrain of the areas you are thinking about. There may be areas more interesting to you than others. I hunted north Idaho and it was straight up and down. Here in Co. there is a huge rage of terrain. Find something you like a start from there.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

alsatian, thank you for some great info. I do realize that this trip will require a lot of intense planning, i am just trying to get a foundation to build on and you have certainly set that for me. i have found the colorado state website a little difficult to navigate around but have been reading the regs and units that are possibilities. with the trip a ways out (2-3 years) i am already excited but am trying to make it the best i can by planning early. I hope to make it an annual trip if possible.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Rather than deal with some of the more obvious aspects (where, when, how), let's touch on something Alsatian mentioned; WHAT CAN GO WRONG.

Physical: There is a very real and dangerous condition some people get called Altitude sickness. Read all about it at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altitude_sickness#Signs_and_symptoms

Conditioning: You don't have to be a triathlete to hunt elk. But you will likely have to go up and down ridges to "see what's on the other side" and this can take it out of you. Especially at altitudes over 8000 feet. Archery elk is mostly in September and they are still at higher altitudes. 10,000+!

Company: Don't come out here alone. Three is bettter than two, and onewould beinsane. Even from camp, tell someone or leave a note as to the general area(s) you will be that morning/evening/day. Getting lost is very easy. You will be surrounded by millions of acres of the same exact trees/rocks/slopes or any other kind of reference point. I don't go anywhere without a compass. And before going, I know from my topo
map(s) exactly what direction I am heading out. I'm more old school than to use a GPS. Especially after having to search for a budy of mine who had one and knew how to use it. They don't always work down in deep forested draws or canyons I guess.

Weapon: You say you will be bow hunting. (There is a section here just on archery). Put all your pins on it! Practice and get good out to 60 yards. Practice shooting up hill and down . . . steep! You never want to take a long shot, but if your only opportunity at that 42X30 is at 57 yards, you're gonna take it because you have practiced it and are confident. Bring a range finder so you know exactly what you're shooting. Fixed blade broadhead only. The mechanicals don't penetrate addiquitly to impact a lethal blow. They loose too much enrgy while openning on impact. Remember, you are shooting an animal that is not much smaller than a horse!

Clothing: Much was covered on this. Wool is perfect, but doesn't come in camo patterns to my knowledge. September in the Rockies can bring you 3-4 or more weather changes . . . the same day! Around here, you dress "in layers". You'll be heading out with frost on the windshield, but by 9 - 10:o'clock, you may be down to a t-shirt. Especially hiking around the mountains. Then a shower comes through, and by morning . . . 1 1/2 of snow on the ground! Bring comfortable shoes that offer water resistance and some warmth. I don't care if they are your b'ball tennies, if they are comfortable, wear them. The elk won't mind. And your feet will love you.

Gear: In your day/fanny pack: first aid kit. Adequit amount of water. Snacks like granola bars, candy bars, or even a chunk of that steak you didn't eat last night. Matches that are kept dry. I bring a striker also. Good, sharp knives and a small stone. They don't have to be Jim Bowie huge, Ihelpeda guy field dress his elk a few years ago with nothing but his Leatherman's tool. Very sharp knife. But the thick hide and hair will knock the sharp off even the best Buck. Bring some kind of folding saw. It's a big breast plate, and handy when you need to quarter it out. I bring a small sceen of rope. You'll want to tie a leg up when field dressing. Bring your license. I know, it seems obvious, but get caught bringing a chunk of elkout of the woods without it, and you've ruined your whole trip. Game wardens around here can be nasty. Helpfull most of the time, but nasty when they need it. They carry side arms, and can confiscate not only your trophy, but your gun . . . even your truck! Get a roll of bright orange contractors tape. (I think that's what it's called.) Tie strips on trees as you exit the woods so you can go right back to your elk. I also bring one of those "aluminum foil blankets". You may have to stay overnight. (If you get lost . . . stay put!)

G.P.: Be aware that you may be required to have completed a hunter safety coarse and have to prove it. You should go to the Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho Game & Fish websites and familiarize yourself with the hunting rules and regs. Each state does things differently. It may change your mind. I'd plan on hunting sometime in the middle two weeks of September. The weather's great (usually), the Aspen are turning colors, the elk are twitterpated and bugling their asses off. It's the best time of the year to be in the mountains.

One last personal note. I never have campfires during archery season. It gets in your clothes and makes you smell even more like danger. IMO
Also, the national average of elk success amongst licensed hunters is one every five years. Around here we say; "10% of the hunters get 90% of the elk". If you have to come home with an elk, go for a cow tag your first year.You have a better chance at harvesting, and gets you aquainted with elk hunting for the next time.

"I've got blisters on my fingers". (John Lennon)

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

This is a good point that game4lunch brought up. I also live in Illinois and it is imperative that you have taken a hunter safety course! You must show proof when you purchase your tag, so don't forget to put the card in your wallet. It's a long drive to Colorado to find out when you get there that you don't have your card.

A point comes to mind on wilderness areas if that is your destination. Regulations state "no wheeled vehicles allowed into designated wilderness areas". This includes carts to wheel the meat out. It's either hike in or horseback! If you down an animal, and don't have pack animals then you better be in shape to pack the meat out. Some states, like Wyoming, it is state law for non-residents to have a resident guide you into wilderness areas. You stated that you will use an ATV, so that rules out designated "wilderness" areas. You can narrow down the areas you can hunt by going through a process of elimination like this.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Ok, now we have a place to start. These guys are all making good points, but we gotta go methodical like. If you are going to stay in motels and use an ATV, you need to find a migrating herd during a season when they'll be down where you can access them. Your competition will be those who camp right on the gravel roads in the area you will be hunting. This is the most competitive type of elk hunting with the lowest success ratios. If you get into a good migratory route at the right time, it can also be the easiest. Your next task will be to find a place that is accessible with an early wake up. I have a place in mind, but I ain't gonna put it on the airwaves. You could tag a monster elk there, with some luck and perseverance. Competition will be significant, but not likehunting at Kmart. PM me and I'll fill you in.

Once you have a target area and season in mind, you can learn alot from everyone here, but also get a good book on field dressing and caping a head, tracking, etc. Elk ain't deer. They got the legs of a horse and the feet of a goat. You can't run one down, and they cling to life like no other animal. Avoid taking running shots. If you spook up a herd and they don't stop, forget about the shot. You'll have another chance. Remember, if it was automatic, it wouldn't be any fun. Resign yourself to the fact that sometimes the elk win. If you earn your elk, you'll probably have time to take a nice rested shot. At least, you should be able to drop to one knee. This is the best hunting in the world. Sometimes, I don't even chamber a round on the first day. I usually don't hunt with a round in the chamber unless I'm pushing a ridge or waiting on a stand. Immediately unchamber the round when you'removing in the open.Spot and stalkisone of the best ways to hunt elk if you're in a good place for that.Please don't chamber a round until you're getting close to the elk on even ground.In my experience, I'm usually climbing some steep stuff at the end of my stalk, running to stay downwind or tohead off a moving herd. Empty chambers are best for you AND your partner. Make sure you both have the rules down pat before you go.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Elk hunting out West in the mountains is so much different from other big game hunting back in IL, it would be difficult to know where to begin. I would seriously suggest you find someone who has hunted Elk for a number of years successfully, knows their habits, how to find and get close at least the first couple hunts.
I too would suggest you consider a cow Elk hunt for several years to learn and maybe someday hunt your big bull. Especially since you're likely going to be hunting public.
No articles or suggestions on a forum are going to fully prepare you for what you're going to have to do to successfully find and harvest an Elk.
But just to give you a small taste, read June/July 2007 Outdoor Life articles "Elk on Your Own" and "High Country Survival". You better go prepared mentally, physcially, equipment and respect that many things including the mountains and weather there can cause you very serious problems. Don't take it lightly.
Be prepared to walk, pack and climb up and down ridges further and harder than you've ever imagined. You need to be where you have reason to believe Elk will be at first light, spotting and stalking all day til dark. If you are fortunate to harvest an Elk, have some plans ahead of time how you're going to keep the meat fresh and out even if your a number of miles in on foot, especially since with bow you're most likely hunting earlier. I think that is where your guides and/or experienced hunter you need to find will be invaluable, as well.
I know there are many on this site who have much more experience and knowledge of this than I do and can share more. I gaurantee if you go into this it'll open your eyes to experiences you've never seen before and you'll learn more new things everytime you go.
Good luck and stay safe.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Best advice yet. Go with an experienced buddy. I don't know about the cow tag thing. Depends on when you go. I hunt a late September, early October hunt. Bulls are easy to locate and you can earn your stripes trying to get in on them. Cows are hard to find during that period unless you find them all. Once the herds break up, cows are easier to hunt as they will be on the move.

Chances are, if you ain't going to put in for a tag, you'll be find hunting cows because early hunts are usually meanspecial drawings.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Very interesting post. I too am going on my first elk hunt this year. Look out Montrose! Anyway, any other issues would be good to know. Started training a few weeks ago. Going 2nd week in October. Four of us going. One been there, One been to Wyoming and two flatlanders. I have been looking through old boyscout manuals on compasses. Got a GPS, Rifle shooting getting within 1 sq ft at 250 yards.

I read about the four wheeler thing. We are packing in (with outfitters help) and are going to be in at least 1/2 day before camp. I didn't think 4-wheelers were possible in most areas. I'm sure have other questions. Sorry for hijacking thread, but wanted to start dialogue.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

"game4lunch" noted he never has a campfire due to the smell. I have to disagree with this. I always bask in the campfire scent. Elk smell fire all the time. Although they associate it with danger, they will be alot less spooked smelling smoke than smelling copenhagen, cheetos and other human funk. I look at it like a natural cover scent and it doesent really matter because if you get up wind of an elk your done anyway. So IMO, enjoy your comradery around the campfire. I dont think an elk hunt would be complete without the fire.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Can 4 wheelers be used in the Colordao Units?

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Check the Colorado Game and Fish website, most states require a OHV tag issued by the Forestry Dept, DMV, or the states tourist stations. The ATV needs to have a headlight, taillight and a spark-arrestor muffler. Most states will honor out-of-state OHV tags as long as they are up to date.

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Fig. out where your going first then get the lay of the land. start with likely spots and do lots of scouting

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Bhunter50,
The general archery tag in CO is either sex. They do have antlerless tags but it is an additional tag.
Get on the CDOW web site and go to statistics, a lot of good info. It will give you herd numbers for areas. There are maps to look at elevations and amount of public ground in the Regulation section.
The area around Gunnison has a lot of elk, lots of public ground. The flat tops is a good area, but you better be ready to pack in and out to get away from hunters and guides. The southern part of CO along the NM border has good hunting but can be hard country. North Park is a great area. but CWD has been found there. There are so many options here it is hard to tell you where to start. Just the difference of east or west of the Continental Divide is huge. And don't over look some of the draw areas, build points for later on.
Gselkhunter

RE: How to hunt elk??????
 

Wilderness areas in Colorado, and probably most western states, have prohibitions agains any wheeled vehicle in a "designated wilderness area"! This includes taking a wheeled cart to transport the carcass out of the area. If it has wheels it is illegal in a wilderness area. Foot traffic only, human, horse, mule, goat, etc., no wheels!