Me and either 3 or 4 buddies are planning an archery elk hunt for next year. We're thinking Colorado but still researching a lot. We're from Pennsylvania and all 22-25 years old. Planning on a week and a Half hunt, hiking in, no horses. I have a million questions but that's why we're starting to plan now. Basically I'm just wondering where to start? We are looking for an OTC unit. The less hunting pressure the better. We definitely are looking for big bulls but I think for our first year a unit with a higher elk population would be better than one with more trophys. Also is there any draw units you would recommend to apply for? Thanks for any help ahead of time and feel free to share any tips/pointers

Pick what part of archery season you want to hunt. middle of the season is combined with muzzleloader. At the beginning of archery this year the elk still had velvet on their horns. Rut will be better from the middle to the end of season. Be ready for some screwed up weather. The temps will vary from the 30 in the morning to 70s in the afternoon. Elevation is a killer once you pick a unit find out what elevations you will be hunting and get ready for it. Be ready to quarter the animal in place. even a small elk is almost impossible to drag.

email me [email protected]. I'll answer your questions. I was once in your shoes...

Answering on the forum is more helpful to others with the same question.

I can't help until he picks a state.

We're pretty set on Colorado. We have a friend that goes with another group that have had awesome success with the same type of hunt over the past 4 years (tagged out with 5 guys this year including a 370 7x7). And he is giving us a lot of help as far as calling camping hunting gear etc... We just need more help picking out a place to start looking at maps and stuff