Elk Outfitter Suggestion for 2019

[DMiller6868]

Well, I can't believe I'm typing this, but I'm looking for suggestions on a guided elk hunt. I've shot 2 bulls in Colorado and 1 in Montana all DIY Public Land with my bow and now I'm looking for something different. I like the DIY thing, but I'm looking for a better caliber bull. I can't seem to find any great hunting partners anymore and I don't have the time to scout and find great public land spots, so I think this is the route I'd like to go.

With that being said, does anyone have any personal experience or suggestions for a guide outfitter? I'm not married to a specific state, but don't have 5+ years of preference points saved up for some special unit.

-No physical limitations and willing to work VERY hard in steep country, if necessary
-Budget is $5,000-$7,500
-1x1 guide would be preferred
-Would like to have opportunities at a 320"+ bull
-Bow or Gun- I'd prefer a bow, but will gladly pickup the gun
-I will eat Mountain House every day and don't care about sleeping in a lodge with warm meals, I just want great elk hunting

Appreciate any help or suggestions!

 

[md126]

1-1 guide for 5-7k and a 320” bull? Good luck with that

If you want a 320” bull just pay the extra $$$ and shoot one with the rifle on a private ranch. Then I’d go back to diy with the bow. Just my 2 cents

 

[DMiller6868]

1-1 guide for 5-7k and a 320” bull? Good luck with that

If you want a 320” bull just pay the extra $$$ and shoot one with the rifle on a private ranch. Then I’d go back to diy with the bow. Just my 2 cents

Geez! It's more than $7,500 to get an "opportunity" at a bull of that caliber? I was using the standard marker of 350" bull, private ranch $10-$12.5K. Guess 30 inches doesn't save me as much as I thought....

 

[Southforkguy]

I thibk that is an achievable goal with a reputable guide in the right areas. Still going to be a tough hunt but your guide should be a great partner with local knowledge. That alone gives you a competitive edge.

 

[blutooth]

I have to agree with md126 a bit that a “opportunities” (plural and guaranteed) on a 320 bull in that price range is a little bit of a stretch - but anything is possible, just need the bull to walk in front of you. I also think it is much more attainable if you had the points to pick a unit and then find a guide. But going in empty starts to limit what is available at that price point with otc units or expensive landowner tags.

My dad isn’t able to get around as well as he used to so we try to do a guided hunt every couple years together.

Here is what we have experienced:

Colorado otc unit in 2009. $3500/hunter plus tags for 2 on 1. Saw 3 spikes and 1 6x6 for about 8 seconds the entire hunt. (3rd rifle)

Idaho private landowner tag hunt in 2015 $8500 plus $1000 or so in tags (combo elk/deer), 2-1, In tons of elk every day. Family friend and I shot 2 largest bulls they were watching on the property all summer. Both scored right around 300 - Pics of bulls attached the light one scored 305, the dark one hasn’t been scored. This was a rifle hunt the first week of October so there was still quite a bit of bugling going on.

2nd rifle this year Colorado otc unit this year 2018. $5500 plus tags 2-1. Outfitters says they are seeing 280 class potential. We will see in about a month...

PM me if you want any more information, but if this is a bucket list thing and you can wait a few years either save more money or start buying preference points.

 

[PaLongshank]

Lee Livingston, based out of Cody, Wyoming. Hunts area bordering Jellystone.......Great guy and guide.......if need more information, PM me.

 

[cmbbulldog]

Start saving points in Az. When you get to 10 or so, we can share points and I will take you archery hunting with a good shot at a 320 bull.