Trad Gang
Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Cyclic-Rivers on September 04, 2011, 08:57:00 PM
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On a Glorified Camping trip.
Tradganger Ron W. and I went to Colorado with the intent to kill an elk. since we were both rookies we didn't expect anything other than a learning experience and a camping trip with bows in hand.
4 AM ready to Leave on a 30 hour trip to CO.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315165907.jpg)
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Wow, looks like the neighborhood put on a Festival of Lights to celebrate your departure! :bigsmyl:
Killdeer :wavey:
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We met another hunter along our journey.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315165914.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315165912.jpg)
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I've done that drive!! Can't wait to hear the stories. Joe
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There were a bunch of these things out and about. unfortunately this is the best pic I managed.
saw some monster bucks!
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315181678.jpg)
Once we arrived to the Forest, a nice young forest ranger pulled up and offered her help with a map. wish I had the camera ready but I dont need to be taking pictures of pretty young girls anyhow.
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These things were in the road! Depending on how tired you were, they could look more like a black bear or Moose!
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315168268.jpg)
Ron and I set up camp. Not bad for a couple of schlups from NY!
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315171260.jpg)
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yeah bro!!!!!!!
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The next Morning we took it easy, trying to acquaint ourselves with the altitude and come up with a game plan for scouting the area.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315171618.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315171621.jpg)
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With as Hot as it was, I thought it would be good to find a water source. everyone I talked to said it was wet on the mountain. I beg to differ, I found no less than 30 dry wallow/watering holes.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315172389.jpg)
On the first day we were visited by a young lady, Game Warden, she checked our licenses and told us things were running about 3-4 weeks late.
Earlier that day Both Ron and I had an encounter with a Mule deer and her fawn, (still spotted). I had also spotted a grouse unfortunately season didn't open for 4 more days and I couldn't seem to get a picture since it blended in well and wouldn't sit still.
The Mule deer and fawn passed me at less than 15 yards. I couldn't get the camera out or I would have been made and left with out a shot anyhow.
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There was a lot of Old sign but nothing fresh. (about 3-4 weeks old)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315172393.jpg)
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Very Nice Charlie!! I know this will not be a short story but can ya give a little hint as to wether you saw any Elk? Please???? Shawn
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I can't believe you wore your best unlucky hat Charlie! You fellas had me dreaming of being in the mountains. Anyplace was better than here with the mess we had. Hope your section of Scotia was ok. See you in rockwood in a bit.
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I've been watching for your return thread Charlie and Ron W. I am sure you guy's had a great time on your first Elk hunt. Looking forward to the rest of the story and pic's.
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Charlie ,your doing a great job telling the tale. I might add, as Fred Asbell would say, A great guy to ride the river with any day....that's Charlie!!
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Shawn :readit:
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It already looks like a awesome trip!
Glenn
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:campfire:
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:coffee:
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Since things were running late, the flowers were all in Bloom. In Fact, Ron found a patch of fresh strawberries.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177451.jpg)
We found a lot of Mule deer beds in the tall grass around these flowers that stood 7 feet tall.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315175426.jpg)
On this morning we decided to pick a side of the creek drainage and hunt down to accommodate the uplifting thermals.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173720.jpg)
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Great pix and story... can't wait to see/hear the rest
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:campfire:
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We camped at 9,500 feet above sea level. the Elk seemed to be at 10,000 feet or above. Here is what it looks like at 11,000 feet.
we were able to use our cell phones up here to check in back home with all the flooding associated with the hurricane. Both our properties had minimal damage. We were fortunate as there were some people who lost everything and many people now a week later who cannot yet go home. Thanks for your concern Izzy! :thumbsup:
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174807.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174484.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174805.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174487.jpg)
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Looking good Charlie! Great pics so far, and very much looking forward to the rest!
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Charlie I am leaving Wednesday at 7 AM from NJ to go to Mt Zirkel Wilderness Area in Routt National Forest. We will be getting back September 26. Where did you go in Colorado. It looks like there is a pine beetle kill here too.
Thanks
Gil
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Awesome stuff Charlie. Thanks for shariing it all with us. Very cool!
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Man is that some great looking country or what!!!
Great pictures!!
:campfire:
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You finally pushed me to identify this plant, which I photographed in 2009.
It is False Hellebore, very toxic. These were growing in large patches around a seep in the West Virginia mountains near where I hunt.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/Killdeer/Hunting%20and%20Camp/Highland%20and%20Nearby/FalseHellebore008.jpg)
Now, pray, continue with your wonderful journey.
Killdeer :campfire:
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Great pics Charlie! I'll be following along to see how this turns out. But one thing's for sure - you are now elk hunters! It doesn't get any better than spending time in the Rockies in the fall :thumbsup:
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Charlie :campfire:
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:coffee: :coffee:
Glad to hear your house made it through Irene OK....we were concerned since you were gone.
Patiently waiting to read about the rest of this adventure..............
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Now my 2 cents......Day one Charlie and decide to split up and look for sign of Elk and then regroup at lunch to compare notes. He went west ,I went north. As I climbed to reach the spot I saw on the map I was amazed at wild flowers the were all around me and also the trees that are dead from the bettle kill.....just amazing. I stopped to look around for a bit and I caught movement to my right ,downhill. Up the mountain comes a Mule deer and her fawn, they passed at 30 yards and never knew I was there....kind'a neat!
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After I saw the deer I went up the rest of the way to about 10,000 feet. I stood , looking around and then I heard it.........an Elk mew. COOL!!! I regrouped and gave her a call, a lost calf or at least that's what the call says....lol! I got an answer but it was moving away and I never heard it again. I moved up just a bit and found a wallow with water in it, not many held water , just very dry! I sent up by the wallow thinking critters need water. I sat for 2 hours and then decided to have some trail mix and a granola bar. I took a drink and then I heard it.........another elk mew. I listened and heard it again. I called.....it answerd. I waited and called again and it answered.....only closer. HOLY COW!!!!! I call, it answers even closer. I move to one knee behind a small spruce, put some tension on the string and wait. This is just like turkey hunting. I call one more time with the call stuck in my armpit to mute it.....I see movement and hear a twig snap. Now I'm on full hunter mode and ready to pick a spot, draw and shoot.
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I put a bit more tension on the string and then it happens........two guys in camo step out into the clearing. The first guy was calling with a diaphram and the other was following. Both had compounds and they moved even closer. At 25 yards the lead guy looked at me but didn't see me. Then I waved to him. Talk about surprised.......They got a disgusted look on their face a took right off. I had just called in my first two Elk hunters. What a mourning........ :biglaugh:
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Great stuff guys, keep it coming! BTDT on calling other hunters in as well!
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:coffee:
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Sounds like a good time already :wavey:
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Great story...keep it coming. What unit were you hunting?
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Gil, We were on the south side of Mt. Zirkel about 8 miles in the Buffalo Pass area.
Thanks for clearing that plant up Killie. They were very neat.
Everyone else, thanks for the Kind comments.
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Keith, we were in unit 16.
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There was a lot of wildlife on the mountain.
There was a big Jay type bird and pine squirrels, Darned if they wouldnt sit still enough for a picture.
There were chipmunks and HUGE chipmunks
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315181675.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315171615.jpg)
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We came close to some deer. The Doe and Fawn Ron saw were spooked by the 2 hunters he saw and snuck passed me about 15 yards away. No picture though.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174482.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174810.jpg)
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Nice pics bud, looking great. Im headed out now for bushytails with the new Griffin but looking forward to the rest.
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I like the chickadees. They keep me entertained everywhere I go. These look a bit different than the ones in NY or WI for that matter. still a cool bird.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176423.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177125.jpg)
Other birds I saw but was unable to get pics o were , Crows, Ravens and hawks that shoot through the woods terribly fast.
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Originally posted by Izzy:
Nice pics bud, looking great. Im headed out now for bushytails with the new Griffin but looking forward to the rest.
Izzy, we were wondering where you have been lately. Hoping the kids were keeping you busy. Good luck and stay dry. you will find most squirrels right now up in the canopies around here. Give a full report and next time an invitation :readit: ;) ;)
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We ate very well. Between in the field having cliff bars and trail mix, I also added some of my venison Jerky. It met Ron's approval :bigsmyl: )
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173202.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173205.jpg)
All Done! :thumbsup:
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173209.jpg)
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Very nice:)
Please continue..
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On Day 2 we were still taking it easy and doing a bit of exploring. There were 2 ponds I wanted to get to but I missed on my first attempt.
The neat part was that I found my first elk rub. I saw about 50 more throughout the week but the first is always special. Unless your'e drunk, um.... never mind.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315171978.jpg)
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Great job Charlie, looking forward to the rest of the story.......
David
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Not sure what makes my mouth water more...the elk rub or those poppers.... :bigsmyl:
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After I was heading back to camp to meet Ron for lunch and discuss what we had found I made it to the trail. At this point I still had not found any fresh elk sign.
There was a large dead tree laying half across the trail so I stopped and took off my camo shirt and was down to an olive drab tee shirt.
I no sooner put my pack back on, took 3 steps and BAM! an ELK! She had just walked into view 15 yards to my left. I had seen her first but she saw me milliseconds later. She didn't know what I was but had me pegged, I couldn't move. After about a 3 minute stare off, she spun and ran, she also had a calf with her I could make glimpses of as they bounded away.
COOL, My first elk. That gave me high hopes for the rest of the trip.
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Jake, There's better rubs, check back.
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Must have been an awesome time :thumbsup:
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Every evening thunder storms Moved in. Not just a sprinkle and a boom like your average storm.
I'm talking about hard hitting cold rain and Hail. Trees falling all around, pretty scary stuff. Lucky for us, Ron brought a light tarp, if you look back at picture 1, it saved our trip.
These storms would last from about 3 - dark thirty every night.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176745.jpg)
Lucky for us, we needed the water. It was collected off the tarp and refilled our supplies.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315171988.jpg)
We also Used the hail to keep a few beers cold too.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176750.jpg)
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Due to the Storms every night Sun sets could only be left to your imagination. :rolleyes: They were spectacular :readit: :D
Much like the sunrises....
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315172386.jpg)
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Thanks Charlie, we will be heading to Beaver Lake then onto Lost Ranger Peak.
Glad you had a great time. I can't wait. Two more days and I am gone for 18 days. We will be backpacking in for 10 or 11 days.
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Just to be perfectly clear......the poppers that Charlie made were excellent. I only ate one cause it was just to darn hot!!! But they were good! I guess when it come to hot food I'm just a candy a$$! :biglaugh:
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Very cool thread, can't wait for the rest!!! Heading to Colorado on Friday and this is just making the wait that much tougher! Man those poppers looked good.
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Wow!!!!! too cool of a story, thank you for bringing us with you! :wavey: :thumbsup: :notworthy: :campfire:
F-Manny
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Awesome story, and your pictures are amazing. At the risk of sounding like a total fat guy, my favorite is the one of the jalapeno poppers. MMMMM poppers. TRW
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Sounds like a great trip Charlie.Looking foward to the rest.
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Keep it coming Charles. Great stuff! Let's get to the killin! I've never shot at an elk. Thanks much.
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Those poppers look great! I showed my wife, she said "I can make you some of those." Wow, thanks for the inspiration Charlie!
I hunted Wolverine Basin and the area around Lost Ranger Peak in the early 90's before the great Routt Blowdown. To scout the area, we backpacked from Buffalo Pass to the Seedhouse campground the year before. I would really like to see some pictures of what it looks like now, after that blowdown. Heard the widow maker snags are every where.
Great story!
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With the storms and falling trees, it sounds that you guys had some GREAT LUCK whether any animals were harmed or not!
Just reading about 10,000 - 11,000 feet gives me a headache! :)
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Thanks for sharing with us not lucky enough to get to any wild areas this year.
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:thumbsup: Looks like a great trip!
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Originally posted by Doc Nock:
With the storms and falling trees, it sounds that you guys had some GREAT LUCK whether any animals were harmed or not!
Just reading about 10,000 - 11,000 feet gives me a headache! :)
Great Luck just being there!
Also, I did have a headache for the first 3 days. I imagine it was the altitude but my sinuses were all wacky too.
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Charlie and Ron,
Great adventure! Brings back fond memories of my many Colorado trips from years gone bye. Been 18 years since my last elk hunt there.
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What a great thread.
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On day Four, Ron and I decided to hunt down a creek on either side.
The good news and bad news; It was beautiful and Deer sign was abundant.
About 1 mile into the area, I finally saw elk sign, albeit old, elk sign none the less.
I found a fresh moose bed loaded with moose poop and then I found it! Water, Standing water! There wasn't much, may have only been from the rain but promising. It was in the bottom of a wallow and surrounded by rubs. There were a few tracks in the mud (one Huge one) and the wallow was surrounded by Old rubs.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173726.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173723.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315173729.jpg)
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Also saw this on the Creek hunt!
I know people who would think I would carry it out but I left it as it was!
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315249067.jpg)
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I wanted to mention. On Day 3. I tried to take another approach into the pond area I was after. There were people parked near there and I decided to give them room.
I hiked to the area I saw my first rub and slow hunted through there.
That's when I heard a distant bugle! Followed by a close one. Later that day I ran into the other guys at our camp. They were the close bugle, answering the distant one (which was probably also hunters).
2nd attempt to find the ponds = Foiled.
Also at camp later that day we ran into a guy who was formerly from Syracuse and now lives in Fort Collins. He passed on a shot at a bull that morning because he didn't have time to get it out with other family obligations. He showed us on a map where he was seeing Elk. It was about 5 Miles in on the other side of the Continental Divide.
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Charlie,
ya got to post the pic of Ron with the mountains in the back ground, thats about one of the best pictutes i have ever saw!!!
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That's comin Ken. Be patient.
On the Afternoon of Day 4 I decided to hunt back up about 10,000 feet so I headed up the mountain.
I went into the woods only about a 1/4 mile when I found this:
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315174812.jpg)
Not only Fresh --- Steaming fresh and, smell. I thought I smelled bad :readit: I could smell this pile from 30 yards away.
I must have just missed this big old Bear. The Scat was the size of my boot.
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Here's another pic. I managed to find 7 more piles abut none this fresh and large.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315175418.jpg)
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Thanks for sharing your hunt.For sure I'll miss my early elk hunt this year since my mother has some serious health issues.
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100 yards where I found the poop....
I was still hunting up the mountain trying to make it back to an area I discovered the morning before.
There was a shelf in front of me.. wind is good. I was moving slow... step, look listen, smell....wait....step, look listen, smell....wait....step, look listen, smell....wait....
I poked just my head above the shelf/ bench area and jumped a solo Elk. It was bedded about 30-35 yards from my position. I never got a great look at the animal but couldn't figure out how it busted me.
until I climbed up on the bench. the wind was traveling in completely the opposite direction. Probably why the animal chose that spot for a bedding area.
:( :D
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Feliciano,
I hope your Mother heals well. Sorry to hear and hope you can make elk meat next year.
That brings me to my next picture:
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176033.jpg)
we had a friend have to back out of the hunt due to a family emergency. As well as 2 other Trad gangers much earlier due to a tornado. I guess many people would have cancelled the trip but Ron and I decided to ditch expectations and make this a glorified camping trip. maybe even learn something along the way.
Here I am thinking of those less fortunate and those recently departed. I am taking the time to send up some smoke for them. Also sporting my new to me CLS arrowmaster quiver.
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AWESOME pic bro and that pipe is now my gift to you!!
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Thank you Ken! I will cherish every filling. It's not only a very nice pipe, it's even more special as a gift.
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not a problem bro, karma ya know....
you have no clue how much i enjoy this story and pictures, i am a HUGE photograpy lover and you my friend have more skills then ya ever let on! can't wait to sit down with you and Ron and hear the stories in person. i fear my hunting time this year will be limited due to the condotion of my dog Norman as he and my wife need me close to home, its hunts like yours that i will read, re-read and triple read to get the heart pumping!
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Very cool guys! :thumbsup:
Thanks for bringing us along. Great pics and narration!
Nathan
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Thanks for bringing us along! awesome thread, it's just the excape from all the madness I needed!! :campfire:
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I would love to be able to hunt out west in the mountains one of these days, thanks for taking me along, this is probably the only way I will ever get to see it. Great job with the story and pictures
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This is making a rainy day shine.
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Like everyone else has said...nice thread my man. Keep em coming. Very enjoyable!
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Thanks for sharing and the wonderful pics.
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:campfire:
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Appreciate your story and pics. I got in 1 1/2 days of hunting elk when the kidney stone attack hit. I spent 1 afternoon and the next day in and out of the hospital, then had to fly home the next day. Most miserable time of my life. Glad you were out there and experienced it.
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Howdy Ron and Charlie! :scared: :eek: :scared: Just Jokin' :biglaugh: Keep the stories and pictures comin'!
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I'm enjoying this trip with you , still laughing about the read of you busting the two hunters, I would have liked to have seen there faces. Great photos(beautiful country) you may continue. Thanks Maxx
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The one day when the game warden came to check us out I never realized that after talking to her for 40 minutes I was just in my long johns. I'm guessing she was used to seeing that kind of thing.... :scared: :nono: She was a nice young lady and was really interested in our longbows. Both state employees, Forest Service and Game Warden were young girls.......very helpful and seemed very knowledgeable.
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I was happy to see the presence of state officials in the field.
I think I was only checked once before in NY. Only one trip to CO and I get checked on the first day.
It made me feel good to know your money goes somewhere.
Wish I had a picture of Ron talking to the game Warden in his skivvies.
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On the 5th day, Ron and I went to check out another area. This place was more difficult to get to and Further in.
We planned on spending the whole day but due to lack of sign we pulled out early. Personally, I think Ron wanted to get back to camp to have more of my Venison Jerky ;)
Ron Heard his first Bugle on this adventure which was one thing he was looking forward to.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315175420.jpg)
I'll let Ron Explain the second picture if he wishes. Otherwise enjoy the scenery.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315175423.jpg)
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Wow! That is just beautiful. Thanks guys!
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Forget about it!!! You are really getting good with that camera Charlie. MHTA might just have their new official photographer now.
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That afternoon Ron and I decided to try and find the Ponds again. There is a creek that flows close to them so our plan was to hunt the afternoon thermals up to the ponds and then sit the water until dark. After dark we would meet back at the vehicle.
well we ended up on top of the mountain and ran into each other. That is the area I showed earlier with all the deer beds. Still no ponds, our purchased map said it was from the 50's. we had thought we were standing in the ponds as the area was wet and had Lilly pads growing all around.
we decided to split up and get a good seat to watch some parks until dark.
I heard some cracking and crunching but the wind kept changing. I never saw anything but jumped 2 mule deer on the way out.
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Izzy how did chasing squirrels go?
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The next Morning I decided to hike up the mountain and try to get to an area I could see well and just rel;ax a little bit.
That's when I found IT! a water Hole. seemed like somewhat fresh tracks in it, so I decided to have a sit right there.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176042.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176038.jpg)
The nice thing about this hole is that the elk could only get water from 2 direction due to the logs piled up on the one end.
Here I am waiting in ambush!
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176420.jpg)
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Nice pictures, glad you guys had a great time!
High Country is pretty amazing this year, we had a banner winter for snow and the wildflowers this year are amazing.
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Great story telling, feels almost like I'm there. I wanted to make it out this year but had a knee bothering me til June. That jay type bird you mentioned was probably a Magpie.
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It was a very quiet morning so I headed back to camp and decided I would sit the wallow I found a few days earlier with all the rubs in the afternoon.
I sat for about 3 enjoyable hours. There were not any fresh tracks in the bottom and the hole had dried up but I was 2 miles in and sitting it out.
along came a thunderstorm and I headed out. Luckily Ron had met me at the road with the truck or I would have had a wet 3/4 mile up hill walk to camp.
Here is a picture from that evening.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315176748.jpg)
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Originally posted by T Sunstone:
Great story telling, feels almost like I'm there. I wanted to make it out this year but had a knee bothering me til June. That jay type bird you mentioned was probably a Magpie.
Hope you get out next year and your knee heels soon. We saw a bunch of Magpies also. Didn't get a picture of them either.
I think it was a stellar Jay.
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Here I am displaying Chuck from Two Tracks', Mora knife and wool can coolie.
They were both very useful on the trip. Thanks again Chuck :thumbsup:
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315172383.jpg)
Good thing there was a silver can in the can cooler or I would have lost it. Don't know what kind of camouflage it is, but it works. :eek:
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I think everyone should be required to take this many pics on a hunting trip!
Good stuff! :thumbsup:
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On the last day I decided to go to the top of the mountain to an area that had looked good to me.
Whils't sitting in my hide, I heard a Bugle. Not just any bugle. It was a little bugle which made me think it was more real.
20 minutes later it was closer, about 1/2 mile away in north facing dark timber.
Quickly, I threw on all my stuff and closed the distance by 400 yards. I dont know a darned thing about elk hunting but they say its like turkey hunting.
I checked the wind... Good... then set up beneath some pines and started cow calling.
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That one photo of me with the valley in the background........I was looking for stick to poke my lungs back down my throat :biglaugh:
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I wasn't going to tell anyone Ron.
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There wasn't any answer from the elk for over an hour and a half so I packed back to camp.
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Great read Charlie. Them items look right at home in your hand and in the mountains. The camo is what we use in our Wool vests. It does work good,Thanks.
That is some fun you had. Thanks for taking us along.
Chuck
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Welcome back Charlie and despite slow elk hunting it looks like you and Ron had a great trip.
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The last evening was probably my best.
As I left camp to find the Ponds once and for all I neared the turn in the road and saw a grouse. This was the first day of grouse season. Game on...
A little cat and mouse ended up in a swing, miss and broken arrow.
She only flew a short ways and I pursued but lost her. I know she hid somewhere but seemed like she dissapeared.The Game warden said The grouse pop was down due to the beetle kill. this was the 2nd grouse spotted all week.
I made it to the Pond Location and felt Good about it. There were fresh tracks and poop. Heavily used trails and just a nice place to be.
I found one pond and not the other,however I know it's there somewhere.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177778.jpg)
I just had to:
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177783.jpg)
There was moose poop here too along with a very very heavy trail leading to the water.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315181304.jpg)
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wow great story so far
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Thanks for taking us along. Awesome photos!!!
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Charlie, great thread and pictures. You hunted very close to the area we were in back in '00. Were you near Big and Little Agnes mountains? All those "rubs" in that picture are actually where the moose strip the bark with there bottom teeth for food. Or they appear to be the same as what the moose do to trees around here.
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This is awesome guys! I leave in three days for my first elk hunt.
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I dont think this is over just yet. :saywhat:
Awesome pics Charlie!
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On my way out of the wilderness, I saw movement up ahead.
Unfortunately the pictures didn't turn out great but I crossed paths with a young chocolate bear. I was about 30 yards, and could have closed the distance to about 5 if I wanted to. He was very vocal and just the coolest thing I have seen in a long time.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177443.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177127.jpg)
Here he is moving away from me
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177446.jpg)
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177448.jpg)
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Here are a few pictures to share.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315181307.jpg)
And Fortunately Stumps are always in season.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315181310.jpg)
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Unfortunately, No animals were harmed during our trip. Under our circumstances I didn't expect to! but we learned a lot about elk hunting, I had a great time with a great Friend.
We then had a 30 hour trip back to NY and now I will be looking at everyone Else's adventures with awe.
I was shocked that this trip with 2 guys can be done for about 1,200 bucks. I had saved for a little over a year for it. It could have been much cheaper if I took shortcuts (like only buy a cow tag). A special Thanks to our Friend John for making it a reality.
Most people who have always wanted to do an Elk Hunt,it's not as far out of reach as you may think. yeah, we didn't kill anything but, timing with weather wasn't great, and no one in camp knew what to do, if you pair up with an experienced elk hunter, you could see more animals than we did. Also as far as the cost goes, once you are there, you are there whether for 5 days or 3 weeks. you then only pay for food.
Maybe Ron will chime in with more of his hunt.
But here is one last picture to leave you with.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177122.jpg)
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Very nice story. Elk hunting is just that.. hunting. Great pictures as well. Good luck on your next adventure out here :thumbsup:
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Absolutely awesome my friend!
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Glad you had a good "successful" trip. My motto is if the elk are making noise don't make any noise. More often than not a cow call or bugle will shut them up and move em off, especially in OTC units.
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Elk or no elk, you guys elk hunted for the first time and had a ball......you can count that trip and sucess and I know you both do!
Thanks for sharing, and the pics tell an awesome tale. Very glad you guys stuck it out and did followed through with your plan.
I will tell you from experience.....even with an experienced elk hunter, sometimes elk are tough to find and hunt period...
Glad for you guys no doubt... :thumbsup: :campfire:
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Thanks for sharing your adventure! Have really enjoyed reading it.
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Originally posted by kadbow:
Glad you had a good "successful" trip. My motto is if the elk are making noise don't make any noise. More often than not a cow call or bugle will shut them up and move em off, especially in OTC units.
See that's the learning I'm talking bout :readit:
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Charlie you had an experience of a lifetime and came away knowing more than when you left,I'd consider that a succusseful hunt,congrats.Larry
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Great pics and story! Congrats for this trip.
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Charlie and Ron, thanks for sharing your first elk hunt. I really enjoyed following along with the story and those are some great pictures you took.
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Well I guess Charlie really said it all. Great trip with a good guy........shared driving, did dishes, helped cook, no Elk but that's hunting. Because I only got a cow/calf tag my cost was a bit cheaper. Not to bad when you can spend a week like that for $980......I saved up for a bit so I didn't take money form our house hold budget. Got enough left to get a new ILF riser.....lol. I want to thank Charlie for taking so many photos, I only took a few and they no where near as nice as his. I hope you all enjoyed our tale!! :wavey:
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Ron and Charlie-this was a great tale and pics you shared with us! Thanks and I really felt I was there with you guys. Good job and it seems to me your trip was very successful! Thanks again!
Kenny :archer2:
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Thank you both for taking us along! :campfire: :archer: :clapper: :clapper:
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Nice story and great pictures! Thanks for the ride!
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Originally posted by Cyclic-Rivers:
Unfortunately, No animals were harmed during our trip. Under our circumstances I didn't expect to! but we learned a lot about elk hunting, I had a great time with a great Friend.
We then had a 30 hour trip back to NY and now I will be looking at everyone Else's adventures with awe.
I was shocked that this trip with 2 guys can be done for about 1,200 bucks. I had saved for a little over a year for it. Thanks to our Friend John for making it a reality.
Most people who have always wanted to do an Elk Hunt,it's not as far out of reach as you may think. yeah, we didn't kill anything but, timing with weather wasn't great, and no one in camp knew what to do, if you pair up with an experienced elk hunter, you could see more animals than we did.
Maybe Ron will chime in with more of his hunt.
But here is one last picture to leave you with.
(http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m637/cjohntalk/Colorado%20Elk%20Hunt/1315177122.jpg)
Thank you friend for awesome pictures and a story so well told!
F-Manny
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Sounds like a great adventure to me! Thanks for sharing your story and pictures. Makes me want to put in for OTC next year if I do not get drawn in AZ.
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It's for stories like this and the accompanying photos that I come here. Thanks for sharing your hunt.
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I'm not necessarily counting on killing either,but I dang sure hope I can match ya'll adventure!
I WILL learn a lot for future hunts, and in the meanwhile I will just ENJOY!!!!!!!!!
Many thanks for this thread sir!
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Thanks for sharing.Great hunt :thumbsup:
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Excellent story and photos Charlie and Ron.
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Thanks for sharing Charlie. Wish we could have linked up. We had the same luck just north of you. I didnt bring my camara, but there were a few in camp. I'll share as I get them. Looking forward to getting together with all you guys again this fall. Ill be leaving NY mid December, so I would like to get in as much time with you guys as work and fam allows. Take care.
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I would like to add to this thread. If your thinking about going out west to do a hunt like this, DIY or with a outfitter, do yourself a favor and get some exercise to prepare your self. Hunting in the Adirondacks at 1300-3000 feet for 40 years is nothing compared to one week at 10,000 feet. I work out daily and it's a good thing I did. At 59 I really didn't have to much trouble dealing with the altitude. But if I had not prepared I would have been at a disadvantage........just something to think about!
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What a great trip, thank you for sharing.
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Nicely done, great story-telling with supporting photos. Very interesting, hope that you guys return next year and build upon this experience.
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Awesome thread and pictures ... really a good retelling of what is a classic elk hunt! With most archery elk harvest statistics at not much over 10% there are obviously many more guys out there experiencing the type of hunt you had then those bringing home 300"+ bulls.
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Great read and the pics make me yern for the mountains once again. Can't wait to make that trip once again.
Mike
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Great stuff guys!
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:clapper:Thanks Guys! I really enjoyed that! :thumbsup: :archer:
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Awesome adventure, some of my most memorable hunts ended with no animals taken, that is why success is so sweet. :thumbsup:
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Great stuff !!!
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Looks like a great time Charlie,glad you guys had a good time.I'm glad I caught this before it buried.I been a stranger here the past couple months.Remodeling the house will do that.
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Thanks for taking the time to share all those great pics....beautiful scenery.
Sorry if I missed it....tell me about the black bow please.
:campfire:
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Terry, That's Charlies Big River. 68", I think it's 49# @ 28 and it has an all phenolic riser. It is a real sweet shooter. I think I'm 3rd on the list if he ever wants to get rid of it....lol!
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Terry,
That is a Big River Long Bow. It is made by John McDonald in WI. Very Near where I grew up. the only way to contact him is by phone call as he doesn't advertise or have the use of computers. I believe he is 83 or 84 and builds bows out of his passion for it.
Visiting him in his shop was truly a blessing as was his story of the nub buck he killed on his wall. I hope to make it back home for another visit in the next few years.
As Ron Stated, It's 68" but its 47@28". It's 50lbs at my draw.
It is an all phenolic riser with bamboo limbs, painted black. I love John's Bow's and saw a guy 3.5 hours to my east offered it up for trade. I jumped fast and bought it not regretting it. Thanks Jwingman I hope your farm implements work out for you.
As Ron also stated he is on the long list of interested parties if I ever Die! :readit:
When I make it to Georgia again, I will bring it with me. If we meet, you are more than welcome to carry it for the duration of my trip.
I hope to get down (Atlanta) next summer when my wife's sister has her baby. If I am lucky I will squeeze in a quick hog hunt in the process.
Regards,
Charlie Janssen
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47#, 49#....I was close!! :biglaugh:
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Very cool! I hope to make a trip much like that one day.
Thanks for letting me take this trip with you guys.
Mark
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Charlie, Love all the Pics and the great Tread. Sounds like you and Ron had a great trip. Thanks for the look into your hunt.
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That was awesome brother.....just what I needed!
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Joe, Good to see you Brother, I've been hoping you were OK.
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What a great read, and fantastic pictures!
Looks like another couple of victims have fallen to elk fever. Things will never be the same for you now when September rolls around. It is well documented that it is incurable. You will be overcome with a churning in your stomach and a pull so strong to head toward the west that you will not be able to resist. The only cure for this afliction is to spend time in the Rockies!
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:help:
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Jalepeno popper on the camp fire :thumbsup: are you serious???? I want to go on a hunt with you Charlie. I won't even bring my bow.
Looking good, I can smell the fresh mountain air once again just looking through your picts.
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Thanks Charlie and Ron for sharing your great hunt and equally great pictures. It sounds like you two had a fantastic time.
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Charlie and Ron Good Stuff! Thanks for sharing with us...
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ronp and PaPaFrank, glad you liked it, Charlie did a good job with the photos and telling the tale....it was fun and a great experience. I can see it happening again in the future!!
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Great hunt and great story. Thank you.
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Thanks Ron!
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Thanks for sharing the hunt with us. I'll be heading back out there next week Friday.
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A $1200.00 Elk hunt! I could afford that. No doubt a bit more for this Canadian, but way less that I would have guessed.
This is going to sound bad, stupid or both but, what's a popper? They sure look good.
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Peppers ,filled with cheese...then wrapped in bacon grilled to perfection, then consumed. I could only eat one....just to hot for me :biglaugh: !!
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Jalapeno peppers, and they can be HOT. Great story and pics, Thanks
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Usually I stuff the pepper with a small scallop too. I was hoping for fresh grouse breast but no luck.
For the Record there were only 2 hot peppers in that Batch. Ron picked one on his first try.
I dont know what licenses cost in Canada for Elk but I know someone who hunts them up there.
We could probably get the cost here down to $800.00 if we really wanted an economical--- no extras hunt. Its very, very possible with a group of 4 guys.
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:thumbsup:
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Great Story and glad you had a good time. And remember even experienced Elk hunters usually get skunked! Amazing pictures
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Thanks for sharing the story with pics. I just returned from Colorado elk hunting as well. However, my pics are not even close to yours. I just did not think about it much at the time, I guess.
I do journal my hunting trips, but a little more thought about which shots to take would have added a lot to the memories. Something to think about for the future.
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Great story and photos >>>-->