Here's a pic of my first elk. Shot him last Tuesday in NW MT.
Saw this bull, a herd bull, and two other small bulls the night before. Was up after them before light. Caught up to them about 5 miles from camp around 10am. Was able to call him in for a broadside shot at 15 yds. He ended up head over heels down the mtn about 400 yds and piled up. Deboned him, loaded up, and headed back up the mtn. 6 hours and a lot of sweat later we were back at camp with the meat cooling. Awesome hunt and ready for the next trip (except for the 33 hour drive).
What I learned:
1. When the outfitter says you need to be in good shape he's not kidding. It was tough but we handled it well.
2. Boots are important. I thought I had my boots broken in but ended up with numerous blisters the second morning. Hung up the expensive hikers and broke out the 400g insulated $80 Bass Pro cheapies for the remainder of the hunt. Daytime temps were in the 80s.
3. Tell the guide you need to stop and retie boots, don't just try to muscle thru it cuz you're excited to hunt. May not have developed the blisters if I had done this.
4. Apply moleskin to all hot(or even lukewarm) spots to prevent blisters.
5. Constantly check equipment. Buddy lost his quiver and arrows somewhere in the blowdowns. I was behind him and must have walked right past. Luckily he had a spare quiver at camp.
6. Daypacks are good for hauling lunch not rear quarters. Going to have a better pack next time that's able to handle a good load when needed.
Like I said earlier - can't wait to go again.
Topic: First Elk (Read 1221 times)
