Elk outfitter Recommendation

[Hill Hunter]

Thinking about an Elk hunt in the fall of 2014 (Lord Willing), have never Elk hunted before, and may only get to go once. So I have decided to try a guided hunt, would like to go in the Rut while they can be called, maybe Colorado, but that is not decided.
I was wondering if anyone would be able to recommend a guide that they have used and was happy with.
   

[huntnmuleys]

Check with bowhunting safari consultants. They book quality hunts, bet they got just what you're looking for.

[eflanders]

Hill,

There are several resources I would definitely look into if I were in your shoes (I once was.) CO is a great state to go-to as a first-timer as it is an over-the-counter archery tag and probably has more informational resources than any other state.

The first resource I would go to is the CO Fish & Game website.  They offer a tremendous amount of information on elk hunting and additional resources related to it.  I hope you have a printer and lots of paper...

The second resource I would check into is the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.  They regularly list bow-only guides and resources for all of the elk hunting areas.  It is also a worthwhile investment to join even as a novice IMO.

Another great resource is the Easton Family's Bowhunting The West magazine.  This one is pretty self explanatory.

One thing to keep in mind as you research various guides that I found out through the years...  Unfortunately some guides really frown on bowhunters and even more-so on traditional bowhunters.  Claiming that they have had too many bad experiences with them.  You will not change their mind and if this is the case, you don't want to work with them anyway.  You DO want to work with someone who specializes in bowhunting and preferably trad bowhunting!  I have been exposed to (never personally hired any) bowhunting guides that think that getting their clients within 50 yards is more than good enough.  Do your research and ask them what the guides goals are for you as the hunter.  If the guide is decent, they work with you one-on-one to get you an under 20 yard shot and will provide you with all of the information you need well in advance of your trip.  YOU need to be totally honest in your assessment of your hunting and shooting skills and of your physical condition to the guide when you do your research.  This is absolutely critical as neither of you wants any surprises once you actually meet up.  Remember that guides are people too and if they sense that you have been dishonest with them, they can and likely will make your life quite miserable when you are there!

[Lordswarrior]

hill, good luck and enjoy!

i would strongly recommend NINE MILE GUEST RANCH
in Meeker colo. been there for mulies and saw hundreds of deer and all the guys that have gone for elk have had great success. saw some huge elk on their ranches! check out their web site and trust me all of the pics are legit.
great food too!  

[Lost Arra]

J Bar H Outfitters

 http://www.jbarhoutfitters.com/

Jeanne Horne is the owner. Jeanne is on the Colorado wildlife commission.

Top shelf operation in every possible way.  No guarantee you will kill an elk but she works good elk country.  Great guides, cooks, wranglers, packers. Everything.  She also does some nice drop camps.  You won't be going in 2014 because her area requires a few points but she will do all the paper work to get you the points and tag.

[Paul Shirek]

I'm going with Trophy Mountain Outfitters in WY next (14) fall. This was a hunt gifted to me. Anyone have any experience with them???

[JohnV]

I hunted several times with Winterhawk Outfitters in the Flat Top Wilderness area in northwest Colorado.  Plenty of elk, though not a good place for trophy bulls.  Professional camp that is well run.  They have fully guided hunts from their base camp as well as drop camps.  Reasonable prices.  Google their website for more info.

[gutpile580]

Full draw outfitters in CO. Fred Eichler's camp went there in 2005 on a antelope hunt he has bow only hunts super nice guy and a good hunt I didn't kill anything but my buddy killed a nice pronghorn.You have to watch some of these outfitters they will just take your money do your home work and you should be ok.

[Rick Richard]

Myself and three other tradgang are going to Wyoming this fall with Hidden Creek Outfitters.

 I have heard good things about this outfitter and will post after the hunt.