elk hunting November

[ctdad]

I didn't fill my elk tag in Montana with the bow. I now have an opportunity to return to rifle hunt with the same tag. My concern is how cold it could be up there and my September gear. If I go, it won't be until Thanksgiving weekend. What do you guys think of this gear for that hunt?

Hanwag Alaskan mtn light. These are not insulated but are great hiking, completely water proof boots. Do I need insulated?

Cabelas xpg 2 man tent. It is plenty big for me and all my gear.

Sitka mtn pants with one layer of thermals

I'm going to pack in for 4 days and hunt from a spike camp location.

[Swede]

When hunting out in late November, I like to be prepared for the worst possible scenario. That is likely what you will get. If the weather is good, just consider yourself very lucky.

[cnelk]

You probably will have snow
The elk probably wont be where they were earlier

When I hunt late seasons, I bring a sled. It will pull over wet grass/snow very easily.
I approach the hunting completely differently than earlier seasons.

Its a different mind-set for sure

Good luck and be prepared

[ctdad]

You probably will have snow
The elk probably wont be where they were earlier

I approach the hunting completely differently than earlier seasons.

Care to expand on that at all? I understand to expect snow and the elk not being in the same place. What do you mean by changing your approach?

[cnelk]

Well, calling wont apply.
They will be in bigger bunches
They will be wanting to stage for any migration that could take place
They will be getting the most from any food source available.
If its cold, they will need even more food

Is there other hunting pressure?
If so, use it to your advantage

[ctdad]

That all makes sense. Thanks cnelk!

[WapitiTalk1]

100% waterproof outerwear is what I recommend. Stay dry, warm, and get a big one An alternate clothes drying, warming source besides a fire out of wet wood may be a consideration. A small blackcat propane heater and a few canisters may be worth packing in (used cautiously of course). The elk are much more skittish outside of the rut. You'll be watching much more than moving. Stay warm and watch for movement. Did you get a deer tag with your MT license? The muleys and WT's will be running all over over the turkey day holiday (rut time for them). Good luck!

[Trumkin the Dwarf]

I'd say your gear, aside from (possibly) the boots, is going to be too lightweight. My grandpa and I shot two cows the weekend before thanksgiving 3 years ago. Daytime high was 20 and it was negative 15 with a 30 mph crosswind by the time we got the animals out. Montana gets really cold when winter decides to bite. The boots may still be all right, because keeping your core warm will help your feet a lot. I often use uninsulated boots so long as they keep me dry. I also like hunting across the upper end of migration routes, looking to cut a solitary track, or a track that cuts out of a herd. Usually that track will lead to a bull. Good luck!

[Justinhilljah]

It will definitely be cold. High of 25 maybe at lower elevations here in Bozeman. I agree on 100% waterproof top layers. I would also recommend insulated boots. The real key is to wear several layers and add/remove as needed.