I am new to Trad gang and know this is not the first time this question has been asked but I am looking for a good bowhunting elk outfitter. Any recommendations from you traditional guys?
Thanks
Richie
What state are you looking at? I have got one in Wyoming I will recommend highly, PM if you are interested.
I know a good one in Colorado in the Pegosa Springs area. Let me know interested
IF you can narrow it down a bit you'll get some really good suggestions. Which State, approximate budget, type of hunt prefered (treestand, calling, etc.) Guided or drop camp, how good of shape are you in, etc. All those things and more would need to be determined to get the best advice.
That being said, an elk hunt of just about any kind is at the top of the list for real adventure! Have fun!
I have never bowhunted for elk, however I am not interested in spending a 2-3 years of time, gas and money TRYING to figure the "elk hunting out west" thing. I am very interested in really hunting a good bull..not a canned hunt, if there is such a thing in the elk business. I am an avid turkey in Alabama and love the calling, stalking and strategizing part of hunting. I would be willing to spend in the $3500 range. I am GUESSING that New Mexico would be a good place but again I am willing to learn.
Thanks
New Mexico is great, but the tags are either by draw, and it's too late for this year and not guaranteed, or you can buy a landowner tag, but of course that adds to the expense. $3,500 is about right for a decent outfitter, but a landowner tag could add $600 on up to thousands more depending on how good the area is. The landowner tag fee is on top of the normal hunting licence.
If you like calling turkeys you're going to go nuts on elk. I always compare them to trying to hunt 800 pound turkeys!
joe cantrell out of st regis mt. bitteroots and lo lo nat forest.
T Bar M Outfitters, out of Durango, CO, hunts the San Juan National Forest, Hermosa Creek -- the largest roadless area in CO. Horsepack in, comfy camp, great grub, walk to hunt. Mike and his head guide, son Danny, are both devoted longtime trad bow shooters. $3600 for a week, last I heard, with maybe a few archery slots still open if you hurry. When possible, Mike tries to put together all-trad camps. I used to guide for him (when younger) so know his operation well. The old fart doesn't use email, so call him at 970/259-5469. Tell him Dave sent you. I think you're going about this right. A smart progression is a public lands fair chase guided hunt ... then a drop camp. Then you're ready to go it on your own. Good luck.