An elk hunting question

[BDann]

I'm planning a guided elk hunt and was wondering if you are better off in the draw areas or the areas where OTC tags are available.  I'm talking about Colorado, but I would be open to going just about anywhere.  

This kind of trip won't happen very often for me, so I really want it to be a good one.

[BrianfromTulsa]

The tags cost the same so if you have the points, I think you would be better off in the limited draw in most instances.  That being said, many good hunts can be had in Otc areas if you do your homework and get away from the crowds.  With an outfitter I'm assuming that you are going to do just that.

[Gila Mike]

Don't know how it works in Colorado but here in New Mexico you can draw a permit for a hunt on public land and DIY or use a guide. Or, you can book a hunt on private land with the permit fee included in the cost of the hunt.

There are many opportunities and variables. Start planning early and do your homework.

Check the New Mexico Game & Fish website for all the applicable regs and dates. Their web address is ...  http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/  

Good Luck!
Mike

[Glunt]

Hard to answer.  Many of the units that don't require many points aren't really much different than hunting OTC.   The limited units that do generally produce a higher quality hunt on public land are so popular that the amount of points required keeps going up and up.

If its a guided hunt, the outfitters previous success would be a better indicator.  There are outfitters in OTC units that do great due to better/deeper access, private land,  or years of knowledge.

[Over&Under]

Originally posted by Glunt:
Hard to answer.  Many of the units that don't require many points aren't really much different than hunting OTC.   The limited units that do generally produce a higher quality hunt on public land are so popular that the amount of points required keeps going up and up.

If its a guided hunt, the outfitters previous success would be a better indicator.  There are outfitters in OTC units that do great due to better/deeper access, private land,  or years of knowledge.

Took the words right out of my mouth...
That said...if you have the points I would go for a limited entry unit.

[Kingsnake]

Thanks for starting this thread, BDann.  I've been dreaming of an elk hunt for years and thinking I'd better get moving if I want to make it happen while I'm still able to get around.

One question I had regarding guided hunts:  Several of the guided hunts I see online also reference the availability of hunts for "African Plains Game."  Should I conclude that the elk hunts are canned hunts or somehow not fair chase, or is this a normal thing?

Kingsnake  

[BDann]

I really want to get away from the crowds, maybe a pack in hunt.  The whole western hunting experience is what I'm after; bugling bulls, mountains, lots of hiking and stalking.  I don't care if it's an OTC area or draw. If I'm going to do it I need to start planning or it won't happen.

I've always just hunted on the family farm, so planning a hunt like this is a whole new game for me.  Any advice about where to start would be appreciated.

[sheephunter]

A few things to consider. First, going with a gudied hunt will more than likely be in a OTC area. Thiis easier for guides to sign up clients without the clients waiting on a tag. One source if you do want to a limited draw area is to draw the tag first or apply for the tag thru a organization like Cabelas or Bowhunting Safari Consultants (I think, somebody I am sure can help with recommendations) and they can help direct you to a good area and a reputable outfitter
   Second, outfitters like Fred Eichler and Joey Managotti in the south central part of the state hunt almost exclusively in OTC areas but on private land. This can result in a quality hunt with great scenery. Just because it is OTC doesn't mean no opportunities at a large bull if that is what you are after.
   Next, don't rely on a outfitter that only talks of giant bulls and that is all they show. This is the exception, not the norm. Look for a outfitter that sounds like realistic results and shows pictures to back that up. Also, listen to the outfitter talk about the overall experience because this is what is GOING to happen, the experience. The kill might not. And set realistic goals for the animal to be taken. If you are dead set that you are going to kill a 7X7, you to will be in for a letdown as opposed to taking the nice 5X4 that offers you a great shot.
Hope this adds to the insight and conversation and good luck this season, Charey

[sheephunter]

Also, when you think you have done too much homework with figuring these guides and outfitters out, DO MORE!
this will probably entail a substantial amount of money so invest wisely.

[Matty]

Those guys pretty much answered it. Ultimately however. You want private land.  Lots of the time those guys have land owner permits. I think it's insane when I see guys go in with outfitters at $3500 in the area you could get  for $50 if you did all the work yourself. The outfitters however. Have horses. Nice camps. An usually have been doing extensive scouting in a place they are VERY familliar..
Good luck!!

[BDann]

I don't really care how big the bull is, I just want to see lots of game and have a good shot at something.  A quality hunt is what I'm after, and I don't care where I sleep or if there is a gourmet meal at the end of the day.

[Chain2]

Elk hunting is tough. I go with an outfitter. A good outfitter with a good camp and horses makes all the difference. I work out five days a week and the hunt still kicks my butt. I figure with an outfitter I can hunt  more because I don't have to worry about anything but hunting and taking in the sights. Three good hot meals and a comfortable tent everyday mean alot. I think that 6-8 days in the mountains is an awesome. Taking an elk is a bonus.

[twistedlim]

In my experience it does not matter a whole lot if you are in a draw area or OTC area.  You have to find where the elk are in any case (and be there at the right time, we were about a week early).  We just got back and unfortunatly the Bulls were not talking until the last day.  Same area, but we went from one bull talking to 10 or so the last afternoon. Did not bring home an elk but had some nice bugle stalks, had 2 bears within 10 feet, saw 3 mountain lions, loads of turkey and grouse.  All and all a sucessful hunt in my opinion.

If you do an OTC area be prepared to walk in a ways to get away from it all.  We typicall walked in 2-2.5 hours in the dark but we never ran across another hunter.

We do not do the guided hunts anymore for various reasons.  We feel comfortable with the area.  Our calling techniques have gotten to the point where we do not scare away game   .  And...most importantly we have acess to horses to pack out game.