Got the Itch Bad

[lightsareout]

I have the elk itch bad. I am seriously considering a solo archery trip to Colorado opening weekend in an OTC unit. My main objective is the experience and meat; I would be elated to harvest a cow. The thing I'm really stuck on at the moment, is it worth the extra ~200$ to get the either sex tag? I'd hate to be out there with the intent and tag for only a cow and have a bull in range.

Am I over thinking this and I should go with the cow only tag?

Any other tips from you western veterans that may help a rookie have a successful trip?

 

[BlackEagle1]

I would spend the extra just for insurance. Especially if your going to harpoon the first one that gets in range.

I wouldn't rank myself as a vet of the western game by any means, but don't be afraid to make a move. There's a lot of game but there's a lot of country to spread it across. Some people seem to cling to an area or drainage when they need to be seeking greener pastures.

Don't skimp on game bags or backpacks.

Good luck!!

 

[tickweed]

In my opinion, I'd wait toward the end of the season, bulls will be bugling, elk usually easier to find, much cooler. Believe me, cooler is better. Especially trying to pack an elk out by your self, and saving meat. I have done it, several, several times. Its a job without help unless you have a horse or a mule. Even a cow will be 4-500 lbs. You will have a ball, really be great if you could get a buddy to go. Also, a long drive. I've been 18 times to Colorado, have taken over a dozen bulls, 2 cows on public. If I can help in any way just PM me.

 

[EastTNHunter]

I'd go with the either sex tag. That $200 will be a very small expenditure in the grand scheme of the overall hunt

 

['borohunter]

Extra $200 is definitely worth it. Chances are you won't need it but would hate to have one walk by...

 

[RockChucker30]

My best advice on starting out solo archery elk hunting is to start out solo rifle mule deer hunting.

Archery elk - 10% success rate
Rifle Deer - 50% success rate

Packing out an elk solo when temps are in the 70's is difficult at best and irresponsible and reckless at worst. Wait till second rifle and drop a deer and it's very doable as temps are cooler and the loads much lighter.

 

[AT Hiker]

Although I do agree with the mule deer plan, it might be better to seriously look into a OTC elk hunt in the near future. Not sure when the 5yr plan meeting happens but I do know they are taking public comments and getting rid of the OTC tag is on the hot seat.


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[lightsareout]

Although I do agree with the mule deer plan, it might be better to seriously look into a OTC elk hunt in the near future. Not sure when the 5yr plan meeting happens but I do know they are taking public comments and getting rid of the OTC tag is on the hot seat.


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Thanks for the info! That is good to know that I should start building points - just a shame that CO now is in the game to make money too and just a point sets you back right at $100 per year.

My dad said to count him in if I go out so won't be a solo hunt now!

I totally get the advice on mule deer hunts but I want some elk in the freezer!

 

[AT Hiker]

I wouldn't say it's all about the money. The elk herd is actually suffering in many of these OTC units. Unlike TN, many Western states actually listen to hunters and key stake holders in guidance with sound biology.

Imagine if TWRA actually listened to hunters about our Turkey situation [emoji33]

Nonresident bear tags have also been lowered to $50, so if look into that too for your fall hunt.

Looks like I'm planning a late July epic scouting trip into the wildernesses of the San Juans with Poser. A lot cheaper than a tag and the intel should be worth it for a future tag.


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[Big Pond]

A trip into the San Juans sounds like a great adventure. I hope to take my horses to an area in the San Juan's next season that I should be able to draw.


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