Drought Years and the Rut

[Bulldawg]

What are some thoughts about the effects of a drought like we are seeing in some of these states on the rut? Antler growth I'm not really concerned with, mostly what you think it will do to the activity or lack there of there might be during September. It just so happens that the last time there was a drought like this in my area, 2013, I didn't archery hunt and was rifle hunting, but this year I will be archery hunting for sure.

 

[5MilesBack]

Seems like we're always in a drought in Colorado. It shouldn't affect the rut at all. IMO some of the hottest driest years I've seen have been some of the best bowhunting years I've had. 2013 was phenomenal, but we also got 15+ inches of rain that season as well.

 

[Wapiti1]

My experience is that it can make for a very aggressive rut. Depending on the amount of available water in the area. Limited water concentrates the elk into a smaller area than normal and the herd bulls get cranky. This is also accompanied by more concentrated good food making the elk have to deal with each other more. Add in satellite bulls that now have access to more than one herd to bother, and it can get really exciting.

Again, that has been my experience over the years. In places with lots of streams, it doesn't seem to matter other than the more limited food which is you a hunter's advantage if you figure out where that choice meadow is.

Jeremy