Non-resident OTC Colorado elk hunting unit help

[CaliOutdoorsman]

Hey there, my father and I were looking to plan an out of state DIY elk hunt. We looked into many states and decided on Colorado. We have zero points so OTC tags are what we are looking at. We are both seasoned hunters in excellent physical condition, but we have never hunted in Colorado nor have hunted elk. We are not looking for a trophy. We want to hunt the unit that gives us the best opportunity for success. We looked into many units, specifically those in the White River National Forest and North Western Colorado. We like the elk populations, but have heard it can become crowded with hunters. We would be hunting on public land with out a guide or horses. We will be on foot. Also we would be hunting in the second or third rile season depending on unit choice. What unit, in your opinion, has the best odds of tagging an elk considering we will be hunting public land on foot in the second or third rifle season? Also in what season does that unit have the best odds? Any information will be greatly appreciated and taken into consideration.

Thank you, John Pulskamp

[WapitiTalk1]

Welcome to 'the' elk forum John. I know nothing about the great state of CO so you'll have to wait and see who chimes in. Best of luck on your hunt though .

[CaliOutdoorsman]

Yeah thanks man, hopefully some more people can join in and give me some good tips!

-John Pulskamp

[cnelk]

Howdy John, Welcome!
Below are some links for your reading enjoyment.
They should help you in your decision on where to go.
Weather is an important factor when hunting the later rifle seasons so be prepared

The new 2014 regulations are coming out next month.
Call the CPW and have a couple copies sent to you

After reviewing let us know if you have any more questions

http://case.epaperflip.com/colorado/Parks-and-wildlife/

http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/Pla ... rHunt.aspx

http://wildlife.state.co.us/SiteCollect ... Survey.pdf

[Still Hunter]

Being crowded is an understatement for what you want to do.

Read all these lessons.

http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/Elk ... rsity.aspx

[CaliOutdoorsman]

Thank you all for the info. I like the idea of drawing a unit during first season with zero points. What are some of the better units I can draw with zero points? And what are my odds of drawing those units?

[cnelk]

John
There are many many options. One could be as good as the other.
I have never been one to post certain GMUs for all to see [other than High PP areas]
I do have an area that you could be interested in for 1st rifle - send me PM
[need at least 3 posts on here to send PMs]