Are there any elk in colorado?

[Reece123]

I’d start with stop archery hunting. I was getting frustrated with it and decided to rifle hunt and it changed everything. Archery season sucks. Its hot and there are people everywhere.

Think how good you could be at golf by now…….

I get the heat, but I don't understand the people aspect. I've never been, so I just don't know, but are there really that many more archery hunters than rifle hunters? You'd think it would be the other way around considering rifle is easier.

 

[stumblinhorse]

I get the heat, but I don't understand the people aspect. I've never been, so I just don't know, but are there really that many more archery hunters than rifle hunters? You'd think it would be the other way around considering rifle is easier.

In CO there is. But no worries, I think the CO wildlife “commission” will either do away with archery in 2030 or severely restrict it. So enjoy it while you can.

 

[Reece123]

Well, I guess its time I get in shape and try and draw a tag!

 

[stumblinhorse]

Well, I guess its time I get in shape and try and draw a tag!

Good luck on getting a tag, if you are a NR, you have almost no chance of getting a good tag. But hey, 2028 1/2 the tags will be lottery.

 

[3forks]

In CO there is. But no worries, I think the CO wildlife “commission” will either do away with archery in 2030 or severely restrict it. So enjoy it while you can.

I probably missed a discussion on the next 5 year plan, but can you elaborate on what makes you think archery is going away in 2030?

 

[stumblinhorse]

I probably missed a discussion on the next 5 year plan, but can you elaborate on what makes you think archery is going away in 2030?

Our governor has stacked the deck against hunting. The most recent commission appointment to represent the outfitters, is a woman that started a fishing guide service a year ago. There is a 2026 ballot initiative to add .5% sales tax state wide to replace revenue from the loss of revenue for licenses. Archery has an alarming rate of unrecovered animals, some say it might be 50%. So, Started with no NR OTC. Soon no archery. My opinion, but if coloradoans don’t step up and fast, archery first then who knows…

 

[Hnthrdr]

Our governor has stacked the deck against hunting. The most recent commission appointment to represent the outfitters, is a woman that started a fishing guide service a year ago. There is a 2026 ballot initiative to add .5% sales tax state wide to replace revenue from the loss of revenue for licenses. Archery has an alarming rate of unrecovered animals, some say it might be 50%. So, Started with no NR OTC. Soon no archery. My opinion, but if coloradoans don’t step up and fast, archery first then who knows…

I think losing archery is a bit of a stretch, but who knows these days. The new appointments will have to be approved that “fly fisher” might be in hot water over not having Denver water permits to guide, but yes polis and his ilk have been an absolute plague for sportsmen and ranchers in this state he cannot go away fast enough

 

[3forks]

Our governor has stacked the deck against hunting. The most recent commission appointment to represent the outfitters, is a woman that started a fishing guide service a year ago. There is a 2026 ballot initiative to add .5% sales tax state wide to replace revenue from the loss of revenue for licenses. Archery has an alarming rate of unrecovered animals, some say it might be 50%. So, Started with no NR OTC. Soon no archery. My opinion, but if coloradoans don’t step up and fast, archery first then who knows…

I’m a CO resident and I am aware of all the commission’s BS. Losing archery entirely seems unlikely, but then again, never would have thought we are where we are currently in this state under that dipshit’s administration.

 

[justinspicher]

I get the heat, but I don't understand the people aspect. I've never been, so I just don't know, but are there really that many more archery hunters than rifle hunters? You'd think it would be the other way around considering rifle is easier.

It’s not just that there are a ton of archery folks, it’s still nice out so everyone is also out hiking, trail running and mountain biking and everyone wants their dog with them while they do it.

Cattle are also out on some forest land as well which can make hunting interesting.

Of course I say that and I just got back from helping a buddy with his archery elk hunt and saw six people in the woods. Tons of vehicles though.

 

[Marble]

No I have been glassing with generally no luck, calling into draws, going to the next finger ridge and calling, sitting water, sitting travel routes, putting miles on to get away from pressure, hunting close to camp, I got hundred of trail cam photos of elk, when season comes they are no where to be found. Even went on a guided rifle hunt and we never saw a thing. I have been next to buddies that I have called elk in for and watched them shoot. Just never done it myself and kinda thinking it will never happen. I was hoping for some advise or maybe a hey I was doing this wrong and when I did this it all changed, but I guess not.

I think someone in your situation probably does not understand several key things about elk hunting. I find it very hard to believe that after a generation of elk hunting, you literally have not had dumb luck and stumbled into an elk. There have to have been opportunities where you made mistakes that caused the failure leading to not filling your tag.

Choosing an area with elk.
Recognizing what sign is fresh and what isn't
Understanding the wind and how it shifts with terrain, thermals and prevailing wind.
Learning how to glass
Having the drive to go into areas where most hunters will not
Being in the hunting area at or before first light and staying until dark


I could go on and on. But with all due respect , until you recognize what mistakes and short comings you have, your success rates will not change.

The suggestion to do a guided hunt seems very helpful. But also, after 25 years of not being successful, I doubt the seriousness of your post.


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[OXN939]

Semi ridiculous claim by a brand new profile basically asking for advice... yall know this is probably AI and you are training it up on elk hunting, right?

 

[Fireflyfishing]

Semi ridiculous claim by a brand new profile basically asking for advice... yall know this is probably AI and you are training it up on elk hunting, right?

That’s why I suggested pickle ball.