CO GMU 54. trying to figure out what to do. hunting buddy?

[cwade3085]

So a buddy and I drew a archery elk tag for Colorado gmu 54 DIY hunt. Well he decided he wasn't going to be able to go now and has sent in his tag for a refund. Has been a dream of mine to go since I was a kid and that's all I've been thinking about this year was this hunt. Kinda of really bummed out about it. With all the prepping I've done I still want to go just know I don't need to go by myself especially this being my first time. So I called up my cousin to see if he wants to meet up with me and hunt elk. But he is kinda dragging his feet a little and I don't have much time being I have to put my tag in the mail for a refund before it's weekend if he can't get a leftover tag for unit 54 or even wants to go or whatever. So my question is would anyone let me tag along with them. And does anyone know of someone that would guide me. If my cousins fall through. I have already scheduled for September 12-18th but can go a week before. And possibly go for 2 weeks... thank you guys

[cwade3085]

Ok update... my cousin backed out also.

Soooooo......Anyone willing to let me join them or willing to meet up and be a "guide" for say. I just don't really have the cash right now to drop on a guide service. Willing to get a refund for my tag and go to a different unit as long as I can get a tag for that unit.

[Ponyboy_jonas]

I could pm you some basic information on unit 54?

[powderhogg01]

I do not know the area well on a hunting sense, but I do know the area is beautiful. I say if its your dream, do it. solo. diy. you earned the points and have put in the time. show your cousin and friend how weak they are by bringing home not only the trophy of a lifetime but all the stories to show for it. I dont know anything about you, but I do know that only you can make your dreams come true, and if this is truely something you have wanted for a long time, I say screw them and go do it. I hunt solo most of the time, its more work, but if you hunt smart you will be successful. We have a few elk in these hills.. plenty to go around!
If it comes to you really not feeling comfortable going solo, I am hunting otc this season, and if you exchanged your tags you could join me for a few days, I hunt all over but stay within 2 hours of denver, usually near the I70 corridor where I live

[husky390]

I agree with powderhogg. You'll see some of the most beautiful country around and will gain experience. I hunt solo a lot and all I did was buy an ACR PLB, printed out a map and showed my wife the general area I would be in, directions on how to get there and when to expect to hear from me worst case scenario. I also pay close attention to where I'm going so I don't put myself in stupid/risky situations. I'm hunting OTC and will be weekend warrioring it this year so unfortunately I wont be much help to you.

I did do a backpacking trip into an area in unit 53 and there were a lot of sheep herders in the area. If you run into them in your area, beware of their dogs, they can be aggressive and find the ridges where the sheep haven't been. Good luck.

[Waygoner]

Are you coming from out of state? What kind of shape are you in? Are you prepared to dress and pack out an elk by yourself? Are you mentally prepared to hunt solo? Will you be backpacking in or camping at a trail head?

The West Elks are beautiful and rugged. It's massive country with many hunting opportunities. I'd go for it if you think you're ready. Even if it turns into an extended camping trip you won't be sorry. I don't spend a lot of time in the unit but can help with a few suggestions on access points. Muzzle loader season runs 9/12 - 9/20, so I would go the week before if you can.

[cwade3085]

thanks guys. ... i am coming from out of state . am i in the best shape i need to be in. no but i am in decent shape. could i be in better shape? yes. yes i am prepared to pack out an elk by myself. i wouldnt have planned this trip with my buddy if i wasnt.. wish i had another back and set of legs to help. yes.. but i am prepared to put in the work and effort i need to. im not a pansy, i dont back down or call it quits because i cant handle something, i push myself sometimes farther than i need too. but i also know my limitations. i also will be backpacking in... not trying to sound defensive. and i understand why those questions.


i will take and appreciate and and all help with this unit. thank you guys

[duckdog28]

Sent you a PM

[cwade3085]

Sent you a PM

Replied

[husky390]

The other thing you could do is see if there are any packers available in the nearest town during the week you're hunting. At least then if you get one down you have a resource to get your elk out if you need help.

[Waygoner]

There is only one place in town that does game processing.
Trophies Unlimited 970-641-0644 or 970-596-9747
A mile north of town behind the propane place.

Also be aware if altitude sickness if you're coming from a low elevation. It's not something to take lightly.

[six]

I'm almost positive these guys can either help you directly or point you toward someone who can. Gene Taylors Sporting Goods in beautiful downtown Gunnison. Give them a call they have bent over backwards to help our crew before.

Also if you decide to go it alone I have hunted it 3 times. 1 archery and 2 rifle. I can give you some help on access points to the wilderness area as well as some other areas. All I ask in return is a scouting report as we will be headed out 3rd season this year.

[smj281]

Hey,

I am kinda in the same boat as this guy. Me and my friend are going out here for our first elk hunting trip and we plan to hike about 5 miles back towards Soap Basin. I would love to get some pointers from someone who knows the area and can help us climb the learning curve a little bit quicker.

Is it pretty easy to enter the GMU from the east side off of 740?

[Raghorn_Reaper]

Did you end up going, cwade?