Texas residents, what's a good prerequisite to hunting elk in the mountains?

[COelk89]

To test fitness you could go to to BBNP in February and hike the South Rim loop. I think it is around 22 miles and not bad elevation wise. I have only done in a day hike but you can backpack. Also could try a loop in the Guadalupe mountains. The climb up there is pretty extreme with a fully loaded pack since there is no water. February weather in Texas mountains can be similar to archery or early season Rifle in Colorado.

 

[Reece123]

To test fitness you could go to to BBNP in February and hike the South Rim loop. I think it is around 22 miles and not bad elevation wise. I have only done in a day hike but you can backpack. Also could try a loop in the Guadalupe mountains. The climb up there is pretty extreme with a fully loaded pack since there is no water. February weather in Texas mountains can be similar to archery or early season Rifle in Colorado.

I haven't been to big bend since I was a kid and have definitely been wanting to get back over there. This may be a good excuse!

 

[COelk89]

I haven't been to big bend since I was a kid and have definitely been wanting to get back over there. This may be a good excuse!

When I was in Texas and got interested in Western hunting and backpacking, that is where I got started when I was still in college and could not afford and elk tag let alone the time. After my first unsuccessful elk hunt as a non-resident, I moved to Colorado. I can safely say I have never had to work as hard on any hunt as I did hiking a loop in the Guadalupe's lugging 2 nights worth of gear plus water. As others have stated you also start to learn quickly what you do and do not need, and what setup works best for you.

Beyond that advice, agree with what others have stated; once you feel comfortable physically and have invested in some gear you can trust just go hunting. You cannot really prepare for the mental side without just doing it.

 

[Dave_]

I haven't read the whole thread but there are many different things you are potentially talking about. If you want to to a diy backcountry hunt I would recommend a few good backpacking/fishing trips just to test your gear, figure out what you like don't need and what not, you can scout country and access pts at the same time. Also figures out your physical ability.

To get in shape just het in decent shape. Its not rocket science, just hit the stairmaster and do some rucking on hills. Or just put the treadmill on full incline and walk as long as you can.

Learning to hunt the mountains just comes from experience and research.





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