We hunt SW Colorado every year during archery season and have seen a few muzzle loaders roaming around but its never been an issue. There's plenty of areas to avoid the crowds if it becomes an issue.
We hunted 74 archery last year and had a hard time finding an elk, I sure hope the limited draw helps the area improve. I think the elk numbers in that area have been on the decline for several years, we at least saw more elk 10 years ago. I wasn't aware that outfitters in the area had extended...
I agree that its part of the challenge of hunting....I'm looking to increase my odds of success, learn a new area and improve my skills set for future DIY hunts. With my limited time I think an outfitter might be the best approach this year.
I'm definitely willing to put in the work for the right opportunity so ranch, horseback or hiking are all an option.
I'm not looking to kill a trophy but would definitely like to have something worth hanging on the wall, 250+ would be awesome!!
The last few years of hunting DIY archery in Colorado have not proved to be as successful as they have in the past, it seems like the elk numbers in the units we typically hunt are dwindling. With that said I'm look to branch out this year into new areas or a different state to improve my odds...