Expectation for Archery Elk Hunt - Blue Chip Unit

[deerhunt1988]

Sure are a lot of debbie downer responses!

I drew a 'blue chip' unit in New Mexico last year and it was my first elk hunt. I went into the hunt fully expecting to harvest a bull, and I was successful. In fact, I had shot opportunities at bulls (with archery gear) every day. I ended up settling for a ~260" 6x6 on day four and actually missed one larger. Self-guided DIY public land. That being said, I am an extremely experienced whitetail and turkey hunter who is in excellent physical condition. I immersed myself in everything elk during the 4.5 months before my hunt. Approximately ~2 hours a day spent on prep (physical fitness, calling, research, instructional reading/videos) almost every day. This year I am heading to Wyoming on a general tag for my second archery elk hunt. Once gain, I fully expect to bring back some antlers. But once again, hunt preparation is a part of my daily routine. And I believe confidence also plays a part in success.

I say this as some 'positive' reinforcement. Hopefully you've been giving it your all ever since you drew the tag. If so, and you are already a pretty good hunter with great woodsmanship skills that can give it 100% all day long, I believe one, if not both, of ya'll can get an opportunity. I know too many great hunters east of the Mississippi who get opportunities about every time they chase elk out west in non 'blue-chip' units!


All that being said, I could just be a lucky SOB who is going to get humbled by Wyoming elk this September!

 

[HunterJoeMI]

Why go hunting if you are not confident you can be successful. Go and kill two. It can be done. Son and daughter did it in the first 4 days of our planned 2 week bow hunt in 2019 on general area tags. Two nice six points called in. I did not have a tag. I was just caller and pack mule. I am not a new elk hunter, but being from Michigan I am no where near as skilled as a resident of the west. Kids are good hunters, but not what you would call experienced elk hunters. We do work well as a team. Always believe it can be done! One thing I would add is it would sure be better if you could add a few more days to your hunt. 8 days goes fast! We plan for two full weeks!