First Colorado Elk Hunt

Hello folks,

Getting ready for my first Colorado elk hunt. Any tips would be appreciated.

Thanks,
CM

Where are you hunting? Best advice is get in shape and start now. I hunted the San Juans north of Dolores up to 12 thousand feet 2 years back with some guys who knew what they were doing, Helped a bunch for a first timer. Either have someone who has done it with you or get an outfitter. You can get in trouble very easy in high coubtry.

I am going with a group that has been going to a certain location for the past 25 years. They are really experienced so I feel good about it. They are full of helpful information but I wanted to see if anyone on here had any tips.

For ex... Do you prefer a bow sling or a strap for your range finder when hunting like this?

I would image that it would be nice to have the extra hand and not carrying your bow by hand all day.

We are hunting near Montrose

My pack would handle my bow but only used it once. You want it in your hand. Carried my gps on a cord clipped to my pack. One of the guys I hunted with told me about dropping his down the side of a hill way back in the mountains. Not a good thing. Your associates will get you ready. Start training. We were hiking vertcal 2500-3000 ft and up to 12 miles a day.

I use a FHF bino harness I attach it to that via lanyard. My range finger has a clip. You want it as handy as possible.

To biggest things:
Never set up behind or in a tree/ bush. Be in front
And know your thermals and wind. The wind will beat you more then movement or drawing your bow.

So doing OTC Archery 62?

If so, get in shape. Uncompaghre is a beast to get to the elk concentrations.

Yes, I am hunting in 62. Thanks, for the tips. I will start exploring some of the options mentioned here. Thanks.

Bring a Bic Lighter for signaling or starting a fire if you get lost. I have hunted the Uncompaghe a few times and after sunset it is just plain dangerous!