Didn’t Draw - Glass half full thoughts

[GunsAreFun]

I didn’t draw a unit that last year had a 96% rate for my points because of point creep. However, 2 of 4 in our group did draw. So here’s why this is a good thing:
1. Saving $700 and still get to go hunting.
2. Don’t have to tote a 5# bow around the mountain.
3. Can spend more time scouting and working out since I don’t have to practice archery as much (still do a bit for deer hunting)
4. Don’t have to carry game bags
5. The two of us that didn’t draw should be at or near 100% next year so we can hunt the same unit two years in a row.
6. I can focus on calling. I’m the best caller in the group, enjoy it, and was already doing the majority of it anyway.
7. And possibly the best for last, since I don’t have to carry a bow or be ready to shoot, I can use trekking poles all day. I feel almost weightless…ok not really weightless but a lot lighter…when using poles.

For others that didn’t draw, what’s your silver lining?

 

[Mosby]

I bought 2 young gun dogs. When I don't draw elk tags, I spend more time bird hunting. Instead of Colorado elk, I'll be in SD on opening weekend for pheasant with my dogs. I'm good either way.

 

[GunsAreFun]

I’ll add that my wife doesn’t like when I go two years in a row…but now I kind of have a good excuse.

 

[Arctic Hunter]

As long as your buddies return the favor for you next year and come to help you pack.

I’m not in the same boat as you, but good on you for taking the opportunity to help your buddies out.

 

[BDRam16]

Since this came out two days after the CO draw I'll assume that's where this was for....can you get a leftover bear tag for your unit? Way cheaper than elk and some units might have a rifle season during September.

 

[LongWayAround]

Agreed on all points.

A similar thing happened to me last year (and this season for different reasons). I went on the hunt with my buddy and he killed a great bull in a tough spot. It was really nice to not have a weapon to carry and just be along for the ride. I would have liked to have a tag as well, but frankly, we were smoked after getting his elk out. Maybe next year I'll get back in there myself...

 

[Ikmclean]

I bought 2 young gun dogs. When I don't draw elk tags, I spend more time bird hunting. Instead of Colorado elk, I'll be in SD on opening weekend for pheasant with my dogs. I'm good either way.

This, I had a very good tag last year it was an amazing experience but It took all my time and I didn't get much bird hunting in

 

[justinspicher]

I quit hunting a couple of years ago because I wasn’t drawing any tags in my home unit and OTC is a mad house. I just accompanied others who were hunting and still had a good, maybe even a better time. I felt stress free. I don’t see me hunting anytime soon, but I will continue to help out folks.

 

[5MilesBack]

For others that didn’t draw, what’s your silver lining?

Reissue tags and/or OTC. Either way, I'll be hunting. I always have plans beyond plan A.

 

[timekiller13]

I didn’t draw my 1st or 2nd choice.

Silver lining is, at the moment I will save $700 on a tag and about $1500 in fuel!! Solo 4000 mile round trip was going to be might pricey with current diesel prices!!

I haven’t decided yet what I’m going to do. A little bummed and wallowing in my own self pity at the moment! Will definitely not fight the OTC 2nd rifle masses.

I’m tossing around the idea of getting a landowner cow tag in New Mexico (if I can get one). Or, one of the doctors I work with is originally from Colorado. He has connections at a big ranch. He’s getting me a price on trespass fee. He said it’s “reasonable” but I got to find out if it’s doctor salary reasonable or nurse salary reasonable!!

 

[gobears870]

Same boat here. My dad drew our archery tag on second choice and I didn’t. But I drew a rifle bear tag in the same unit/season. I’m looking at the trip as a chance to LARP as an elk guide for him. Chances were low both of us would get an elk on the ground in 6 days anyways. And if we run across a bear, icing on the cake!


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[Laramie]

Great attitude to have and solid reasons to be optimistic. Enjoy the fall.

 

[el_jefe_pescado]

You’ve got the right attitude. I have spent the last few seasons defaulting to the guide role (even with the tag in my pocket). Somehow I just have more fun when I am helping my buddies find success.

Best of luck this season—wherever it takes you.


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[sterlryu]

Depending on the area, pack a .22 and shoot grouse

 

[TreeWalking]

Was the point total you had last year drawing with 96% odds? Or, were you 1 point behind those tag winners?

 

[Elk97]

I'll be calling, scouting, and generally slowing my kids down while they carry their bows. Might be carrying the shot gun depending on where we are.

 

[GunsAreFun]

Was the point total you had last year drawing with 96% odds? Or, were you 1 point behind those tag winners?

People with the same points I had last year drew 96%. This year was 52% for same number of points.

 

[GunsAreFun]

Depending on the area, pack a .22 and shoot grouse

Now that is an interesting idea…