The past couple of years I have seriously been considering and somewhat trying to plan a western hunt. I believe that 2011 could be the year. I have never hunted out west but have always dreamed of it. At this point, I'm about 95% sure that I want it to be an archery hunt, the only problem is, I don't know what I want to hunt. From what I've read and heard, it is highly recommended to hunt with an outfitter for at least the first time out west. I have to say that I think it's a good idea to go with an outfitter for my first time, rather than diving in to a backcountry quest without really knowing what I am doing. No matter how much reading I do or how many videos I watch, it's always going to be a different story when you're actually out there. Now if I can only decide on what to hunt. I would love to hunt either Elk, Mule Deer or Pronghorn. According to a lot of people, an archery mule deer hunt is one of the hardest hunts there is. I would love the challenge and think it would be a great accomplishment to arrow a trophy mulie. At the same time, it would be awesome to have a giant bull elk bugling across the mountains as I am trying to sneak in close for a shot. On the other hand, antelope are some of the most beautiful trophies in North America. I also think that this would be a good introductory hunt both financially and just for getting a feel for western hunting. Any of these hunts would be both challenging and great fun. I am also not really sure which state I want to hunt in. I have looked into a few different ones and am pretty open minded about it. Anyways, I am posting this blog hoping to get some feedback, recommendations or info from some people who have hunted out west or have seriously looked in to it. Any advice that you might have would be greatly appreciated.
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6 comments:
My good friend at Church, Steve Kirkpatrick used to guide in Montana. I'm sure he'd love to hear from you and could certainly shed some light and information about hunting the West. I know that Steve's big desire is to hunt Africa. Here is his e-mail, I'm sure he won't mind me giving it out. (steve.chkp@yahoo.com) Just tell him DeanO sent you his way. I don't know anyone with as much hunting knowledge of the West as Steve. I'm certain you'll receive great feedback here in your blog. You are certain to have the time of your life. Good luck.
Matt, it depends on how far West you want to come. If you decide you want to try California or Arizona let me know. Any of those hunts would be awesome.
Thanks DeanO, I'll have to send him an email.
Albert, I don't think I'll be traveling as far as Cali, because I'm pretty sure I'll be driving. Was hoping to go to either NM, CO, WY or possibly MT. But if something really awesome comes up in Arizona that I can afford, it would definitely be worth looking into.
If your looking to hunt Elk, CO or ID are really your only options for an OTC tag, unless you've been building points for the western states.
MT is doing away with the Guaranteed Outfitter tags this year, so you'd have to apply there for the combo tag by March 15,(good odds to draw with 0 points) then if drawn your options for outfitters is pretty much limitless. IMO MT combo tag is the best bang for your buck a non-res can get.
Thanks Jeremy, That's some great info
Hey Matt, The western states is a great place to challenge your archery skills. when your deciding on what you are looking for then you should start looking at the state you want to hunt. Colorado has a great population of elk but the state honestly lacks in large bull elk. Now on other side of the coin we have great high altitude mule deer in Colorado. Then you have to figure the license drawing for each state. Colorado is probably more draw friendly then most of the big game states. so there is a lot to factor in with your choice of game, state and guided or unguided. Good luck hope you get to fulfill your 2011 hunt quest.
G2G.
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