So I didn't draw my elk tags that I applied for so far New Mexico and Arizona. I plan on applying for Idaho yet, but the odds aren't the greatest, around 5%. My question is what would you guys do? I can only really do one of these hunts that I am contemplating, the time doesn't matter and I can get away for 8-12 days of on the ground hunting. I want to backpack hunt, which is why i am not just focused on the hunt, I want isolation and the adventure too. Yes I'd be extremely grateful to harvest an animal, but I won't be completely strapped if I don't get one for meat, I usually get a couple of deer a year.
The scenarios for hunts are to
1. Draw a Wyoming general mule deer tag that I have 100% odds, don't burn points because it is second choice, has good harvest rates, and public land. Still applying for the Idaho tag, refund the mule deer if I do draw, otherwise stick to the deer tag.
2. OTC elk in Colorado, Idaho, or Oregon. I am not sure whats the best state yet. I know they all have their pros and cons, predators in Idaho, lots of hunters in Colorado, and poor heard management in Oregon. If I end up going this route I want to stick to this state and hopefully the area so I can be comfortable if I come back, and don't know which is the best state to invest the time in.
3. Pray for a good leftover tag. It seems to be an okay option through some states like Colorado, but I would like to plan this out and scout in advance and not plan my whole trip in only a few weeks.
The thing is I really want to elk hunt and know there is lots of opportunity, but this will be one of my first hunts in the west. I also may be forced to go solo, my hunting buddies are pretty spotty right now with the school situation. Its a big question with lots of options, any feedback would really be appreciated!
The scenarios for hunts are to
1. Draw a Wyoming general mule deer tag that I have 100% odds, don't burn points because it is second choice, has good harvest rates, and public land. Still applying for the Idaho tag, refund the mule deer if I do draw, otherwise stick to the deer tag.
2. OTC elk in Colorado, Idaho, or Oregon. I am not sure whats the best state yet. I know they all have their pros and cons, predators in Idaho, lots of hunters in Colorado, and poor heard management in Oregon. If I end up going this route I want to stick to this state and hopefully the area so I can be comfortable if I come back, and don't know which is the best state to invest the time in.
3. Pray for a good leftover tag. It seems to be an okay option through some states like Colorado, but I would like to plan this out and scout in advance and not plan my whole trip in only a few weeks.
The thing is I really want to elk hunt and know there is lots of opportunity, but this will be one of my first hunts in the west. I also may be forced to go solo, my hunting buddies are pretty spotty right now with the school situation. Its a big question with lots of options, any feedback would really be appreciated!
