Planning the Changing Seasons.

[nolanjs55@gmail.com]

Once again thanks for all the help on this forum. Been great to be apart.

So my question to you all isnt necessarily about a specific spot or for insider info but rather strategy. Id ike to pose some questions that ive encountered while scouring through topo's, hunt maps google earth etc. My goal is to be able to take all this input and be able to apply it to my own hunt or be able to adapt my strategy while in the field.

For the past few weeks ive been reading books on elk, elk habitat, scouting features on maps etc.... I think this has led me on a great path to get away from the standard trails and in theory actually find elk. My scouting seems all fine and dandy but i fear that i have scouted Elk habitat that might not be suitable for the changing seasons or the snow fall( is 9"-15" snow pack enough to push elk lower). Currently i have been planning to scout/hunt an area that sits at 10,500 ft aprox elevation and has a river and clearing at the base around 9,5000ft elevation. this is all great but will it be too cold in mid nov? In addition how much stock does one put on migration charts and winter herd concentration. The places ive planned on hunting tend to be near migration patterns but not near the Herd concentration. Anyways, i know im rambling but would love to hear yall's tips and how you scout for elk given the uncertain weather this time of year.....what prompts you to go lower and what do you look for on a map to identify a back up hunting area if weather has pushed the elk?

Cant wait to put my boots to the ground this weekend and do some glassing.

thanks!

[Swede]

nolan: I t sounds like you are hunting a long way south of where I do. I do not know your area at all. My advice would be to cover as much country as you can, in search of fresh elk sign, in areas that normally hold elk this time of year. You may need to hike in away from roads a few miles to find out where they are, as they may be pushed back due to all of the earlier hunting pressure. I hope this helps a little. Best wishes on your hunt.