2025 Elk Season Report Here

[WapitiTalk1]

What did you do “today” to get ready for the 2025 elk season?

[7mmfan]

Not sure I've got an elk hunt planned this year. Hard to say that for the 2nd year in a row. I do, however. have a hunt planned for a larger ungulate north of the the 49th parallel. I've been working on my leg and back strength, planning for extremely heavy pack loads.

[Elkhunttoo]

Just laying in bed with a fever for the last 5 days…..not sure what I’ve got but it’s definitely winning

[RanchoSueno]

Busy still building our house. It's been a year long journey out of pocket but she's coming together. Bought a dozen new ximpact BE arrows and my valkyrie components. Shot the bow with them just yesterday and still rockin'. Cpw should be hitting credit cards at the end of May. With a little luck I'll have a muley tag and my usual elk tag. Been hiking, riding and doing farm chores to keep in shape. Sold the old pack pony to buy kitchen cabinets and got my hands on a new one that I am starting under saddle

[Tigger]

Doubt I will get a license!

[Lefty]

Im getting honey-do list completed.

Well not completely. Since my wife knows their isnt much I cant do,,, the list is never ending

[Swede]

I am still exercising and drawing my bow back. I hope you are getting well Elkhunttoo. Five days in bed does not sound good. Let us know when you are up and mobile again. Prayer sent.

[Lefty]

Yard and garden work,,,Received some little bear trail cam pics,,, Maybe Ill set up the tree stand, Hide looks good,,, and Im down to 4 packages of meat in the freezer

[Elkhunttoo]

Thanks Swede....Today is my first day back to work since last tuesday. Still not anywhere close to 100 %. Glad this didnt happen during elk season.

The mountain roads should be opening up today. Not sure when i will be able to go up but i left all of my trial cameras up all year. I never got to several of them last season so im excited to get out and find out what is on them.

[Swede]

I am glad you are recovering and back to work. When you have checked your trail cams, let us in on what you got. I still get excited seeing them. At this age they are mere fun than opening Christmas presents.

[2MANY]

Stalking Social Media.

[RanchoSueno]

@2MANY I do that too lol I gotten into a decent amount of elk from other folks dropping OnX pins too close to areas I recognize

[Swede]

I gotten into a decent amount of elk from other folks dropping OnX pins too close to areas I recognize

I do not know what to make of that tactic. I have no issue with using any and all information posted on the internet to help with legal hunting. I just have not found that taking off on my own trying to capitalize on some else's hunt location has been especially productive. There are too many variables involved. At different times I have had hunters and locals tell me where they claim the elk are. I thank them for wanting to help but still go on my own hunt. Just because someone has had a tree stand at a waterhole I do not desire to hunt there. I have found that too many of these great insights are close to or totally worthless.
If I can go with an experienced and successful hunter, that is entirely different. I can learn a lot there. The person who invites me to go with them often does not want me to return on my own. That goes double for bringing friends and family, but I can evaluate their area and find something similar miles away if it seems good.

[RanchoSueno]

It's helped when areas I had found elk before were empty. Not that I necessarily approach it as it was shared but I do my own escout to find access that looks feasible to run into something and it paid off for me. Plans A, B, C

[2MANY]

I was kidding and meant I was simply looking at hunting sites.

[Swede]

I believe using someone else's location is better than a shot in the dark. I know it is hard to just pack up and go scouting, but as you gain familiarity with your hunting area, things will come together better than chasing after waypoints on a map or satellite photo.

BTW: I would be leery of free waypoints.

[Elkhunttoo]

Working again today to make another buck so that i can go hunting in september

[Lefty]

Pulled the SD card ona camera I kept over winter near my bear hunting location.. Evidently 4 bulls, a wonky spike, a couple rag horns and a heavy( and shorter) 6x6 liked to bef in front of the camera untill the snow got wat too deep. I was also hoping for a pick of who was driving up in thee with an ATV

[Lefty]

Friday 20,000 steps on, and off the tractor lots of yard, pasture, garden work. The past months Ive ben able to do moore and more without resting and keep on moving faster and harder all week.

[Indian Summer]

Today I said a prayer in hopes of drawing a Wyoming elk license. Times are getting tough. I’d be happy to dry a cow tag. Fingers crossed for a general license though. If I don’t draw either, I’ll immediately start planning an early September scouting mission.

[Elkhunttoo]

109 days left

posted on the tree stand section

need to work out tonight

[Lefty]

Bought another cell camera Plan to set it out and a couple more SD card cameras tomorrow.


Ive been running out of daylight before running out of energy,,, nt much sitting around time.

My wifes running out of time to commit to a ground floor addition. I warned her .
Buddy and I were invited to the Dakotas after my deer rifle hunt

[Elkhunttoo]

Just went to the track by my house for the first time since being sick. I was down and out for about 2 weeks so I have started slowly exercising again.

I am almost 30 pounds down from where I was last year at this time….would really like to lose 15 more before the season comes around

[Elkhunttoo]

102 days before my season is here!

[Tigger]

havent done much because i dont expect to be elk hunting this year. maybe a pronghorn trip. We played the tag game great for the last 10 years or so, but it caught up to us this year.

[Elkhunttoo]

Went to the track and ran this morning. Then felt hungry and ate way to much today.

Hopefully I can make it to the mountains this Saturday and check some of my trail camera I never got to look at last season

[Lefty]

Ive been slayin the dragon,,, tons of honeydo, Im hoping Im out of the searching for a house and or an addition on the house.

Planning a trapline maybe in the Dakotas. lines up some permissions for fall snow geese,
I might even get the boat out fishing,,,

[Elkhunttoo]

Track workout again this morning. Then I was called into work and accomplished nothing at home I wanted to

[RanchoSueno]

I've just been shooting my bow, milking goats and getting the next pack pony dialed in. Colorado should be hitting credit cards after memorial day!

[Thegreatwapiti]

I got my new wall tent set up and spent my first night in the mountains! Hopefully Rancho doesn't show up in my driveway!!

[Swede]

Nice tent Wapiti. I have heard that Rancho plans to stake her horse out in front at night.

[RanchoSueno]

That's the Hilton of Canvas tents! I hunted there last fall but only seen one old bull. just picking!

[Lefty]

Went to church in the AM.
Kinda kicked back the rest of the day,,, now Im on here. Gonna load the ATV, put out a trail cam on a bear location.. Ill maybe go up and pull m blind,,, Only 2 sows one sith a cub, andf a ratty boar and only hitting at night. Maybe go fishing

[>>>---WW---->]

Pony could use a trim. Nice looking set of saddle panniers.

[RanchoSueno]

He had just had his feet done before the photos were taken. Nice, wide rock crushers. Solid like bucking stock. Eerr... if you mean hair, I already shaved his body. I'm keeping the feathers as he is a friesian cross. Folks like hairy, fluffy feet on them

[Elkhunttoo]

Good workout this morning….worked all day….i still haven’t made it to the mountains to collect my trail cameras from last year. I was hoping this weekend was going to be it but the family has other plans and so I will enjoy the weekend with them and get the the mountains another time

[RanchoSueno]

Shot the bow and made the pack pony "pack" tonight. 30Ibs of corn with a lumpy board to simulate a quarter bouncing off each side. Not a care in the world for El Queso

[Elkhunttoo]

Shot the bow and made the pack pony "pack" tonight. 30Ibs of corn with a lumpy board to simulate a quarter bouncing off each side. Not a care in the world for El Queso

Looks like your pony will be ready to pack….wold my last horse last spring….kinda miss them but just didn’t have enough use for them and enough space

[RanchoSueno]

Thank you! Fingers crossed we won't have any "yard sale" moments. I could probably afford to hunt more places if I didnt have them to feed all year but training horses is my profession and folks like to see your handy work... at least that's my excuse to hoard them

[saddlesore]

Thank you! Fingers crossed we won't have any "yard sale" moments. I could probably afford to hunt more places if I didnt have them to feed all year but training horses is my profession and folks like to see your handy work... at least that's my excuse to hoard them

Not related to the Post Topic

Being an old mule packer, I offer some advice. You might look into a sawbuck and panniers for packing. I saw a complete set on "Packing in on Mules & Horses - Back Country Stock Users Group", Facebook, for $500. Those riding saddle panniers are sure hard to balance, load and unload, hang too low. When you do finally stick an elk, you will find trying to lift and drop an elk quarter a struggle. You and the pack animLwill be glad you did.

The load should be a lot higher, so it is not pressing into the pack animals rib's, with no britching, the load will tend to shift forward causing a more pressure against the shoulders/withers. Then learning how to throw some hitches to keep it all in place helps tremendously in rough country. There is an old saying that anyone can packing up hill, but going down is whole other world.

No offense intended, only want to stop wrecks before they start.

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[Lefty]

Thank you! Fingers crossed we won't have any "yard sale" moments. I could probably afford to hunt more places if I didnt have them to feed all year but training horses is my profession and folks like to see your handy work... at least that's my excuse to hoard them

I hadnt picked up that you boarded and trained .

One day got her thinking,,,
The stable owner owner took 2 hours trying to get stallion into a trailer... When he told my daughter "cats and dogs bite and scratch,,,, but hores like this one will kill you" ,,
A while later my daughter was working a new horse, spooked bad and impaled on a T post, Now my daughter is working with dogs.


Back to the original thread Im trying to get the house, yard , pasture and garden ready for me to head to the Western Regional Trappers Convention in Elko Nv. https://www.nationaltrappers.com/western.html

Ill see if I can sell some of my trapping equipment which Ill never use, make more room in the barn.

[RanchoSueno]

Thank you! Fingers crossed we won't have any "yard sale" moments. I could probably afford to hunt more places if I didnt have them to feed all year but training horses is my profession and folks like to see your handy work... at least that's my excuse to hoard them

Not related to the Post Topic

Being an old mule packer, I offer some advice. You might look into a sawbuck and panniers for packing. I saw a complete set on "Packing in on Mules & Horses - Back Country Stock Users Group", Facebook, for $500. Those riding saddle panniers are sure hard to balance, load and unload, hang too low. When you do finally stick an elk, you will find trying to lift and drop an elk quarter a struggle. You and the pack animLwill be glad you did.

The load should be a lot higher, so it is not pressing into the pack animals rib's, with no britching, the load will tend to shift forward causing a more pressure against the shoulders/withers. Then learning how to throw some hitches to keep it all in place helps tremendously in rough country. There is an old saying that anyone can packing up hill, but going down is whole other world.

No offense intended, only want to stop wrecks before they start.

Downsized double diamond.jpg

Oh I appreciate the advice!! I can't swing a pack rig this year but I do have a different saddle coming thats semi bars and more rings for rigging. I do have a britchen to use just doesn't hook up well to this saddle. I have been working on my box hitch and double diamond so I can hopefully help secure a load with my equipment limitations. I do have another pair of saddle panniers I want to try(trailmax) as you are very correct these hang low and are very unbalanced

[saddlesore]

Here is video on a Double Diamond using four carabiners.

https://www.facebook.com/chuck.osborn.3 ... 2961321670

[Elkhunttoo]

You guys are making me miss my horse hunting days

We used to archery hunt with 3 of us and 2 horses. We would rotate walking and then when we got into elk it was easy for one of us to take care of 2 horses to get them tied while the other two started towards the elk. Then the person that took care of the horses would at times become the caller because they were already a little behind. At times the one person would just stay with the horses and then bring them when we needed to move. Saved us a lot of steps

[Elkhunttoo]

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Been a few years but here is our last two horses when we were getting ready for an afternoon hunt

[RanchoSueno]

That's awesome! After last season I can't imagine hunting without a horse ever again but I don't often have a hunting buddy so it's peace of mind I have reinforcements to get meat out when the time comes. Plus I like the companionship.. rarely do they complain A little sad I sold Jorge, he was prime sasquatch bait jk

[Elkhunttoo]

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Well here it is….i was able to get up to the mountains yesterday and pull my trail cameras. This is the bull that I shot last year and you can see right where I hit him. This photo (screenshot of a video) was taken three weeks after I shot him and about 2 miles from where I shot him. The hybrid broadhead I was using put a hole in him but sure didn’t do anything else….im hoping that this wound I gave him was able to heal over this winter and will cause him no problems in life…note to self…..Broadheads and set up matter!

[Elkhunttoo]

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He is a dandy of a bull

[Lefty]

Took a rife in ATV country,,, elk sign was where ever I expected it.

My wife did see a bull first,,, No blending into the greenery

Saw antelope with twins

[Swede]

Today I drew my chosen deer and elk tags. I was not selected for any of the "Premium Hunts" but that is like winning the lottery.

[Tigger]

Since we didnt draw, we are looking into OTC hunts. Not sure what we will be doing or if we will even be able to go!

[RanchoSueno]

Congrats Swede! I've got colorado elk and deer coming my way but still waiting on Michigan Elk drawing and a social media hunt giveaway but like you said those premium hunts are harder than winning the powerball

[WapitiTalk1]

Today I drew my chosen deer and elk tags. I was not selected for any of the "Premium Hunts" but that is like winning the lottery.

Boom! Congrats John, looking forward to hearing about your hunts.

[Swede]

Thanks guys. I am pleased that it looks like I will be able to go this year. Now I need to get busy practicing with my bow.

[Elkhunttoo]

Thanks guys. I am pleased that it looks like I will be able to go this year. Now I need to get busy practicing with my bow.

Good to hear Swede!


Happy Father’s days to all you elk hunting fathers out there!

I couldn’t sleep so I woke up early and went and ran and walked several miles this morning

[Lefty]

Today I said a prayer in hopes of drawing a Wyoming elk license. Times are getting tough. I’d be happy to dry a cow tag. Fingers crossed for a general license though. If I don’t draw either, I’ll immediately start planning an early September scouting mission.

My wife hates putting money up for draw hunts, So I got an email from her, about throwing money away, So I guess I ddint draw antelope in Idaho

[RanchoSueno]

Fb Marketplace strikes again! $60 old coleman canvas tent. Just got it scrubbed down and mold treated, now to waterproof and stow away till September. 87 more days

[Swede]

Great find Rancho. May I borrow it for the archery season? Please be sure it is well waterproofed .

[RanchoSueno]

Great find Rancho. May I borrow it for the archery season? Please be sure it is well waterproofed .

Hahaha I put a gallon of starbrite on it this evening! Should be all dialed in and ready. Of course!! Only available on days that don't end with Y

[Backyard]

It’s been a while since I’ve been on here, can I jump in?
I’m in my 5th week of training, doing the Over 50 Pre-Season program with Mtn Tough, Saturday rucks, and a bit of shooting.
I got lucky and drew an either sex tag in Wyoming this year. Most likely my last, so Im making sure Im in top form to enjoy it to the max! And tag out of course [WINKING FACE][img]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20250617/3cae3bc924dfe17036f6691b4ecf7aec.jpg[/img]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Elkhunttoo]

Another good work out today….getting really good exercise but need to work on the diet to get to where I want to be this summer. Need to start shooting my bow

[Thegreatwapiti]

I worked on building my shooting blind for the last 2 weeks! Not done yet....still have roof, siding, and paint. Change of plans.......I'm going to ambush them this year.

[WapitiTalk1]

Pretty darn nice

[Elkhunttoo]

Now that’s a blind!!! We need more of a back story to hear what you have going on

[Thegreatwapiti]

Now that’s a blind!!! We need more of a back story to hear what you have going on

I should have a 180° view up to about 500 yds. It was super hard sneaking all that material on to US Forest land!

[WapitiTalk1]

Now that’s a blind!!! We need more of a back story to hear what you have going on

I should have a 180° view up to about 500 yds. It was super hard sneaking all that material on to US Forest land!

You need to get one of those old army Yukon
stoves and install it in that elk killing dwelling.

[Lefty]

TGW Make sure you have shooting holes all they way around,,, I had 2, 340 plus bulls walk behind me,,,Watched them through the crack in the door,,,, at 14 yards ( and down wind,,,,,)

[Thegreatwapiti]

TGW Make sure you have shooting holes all they way around,,, I had 2, 340 plus bulls walk behind me,,,Watched them through the crack in the door,,,, at 14 yards ( and down wind,,,,,)

Thanks Lefty! I really dont think they can get behind me but Im giving a lot of thought to SIDE windows! I built it on a steep slope and into the bushes and there is almost no room behind me! The plan is being able to scan the valley below. The valley is a 200-300 ft elevation drop depending on the shot.

[Swede]

Building a structure like your blind and leaving it out on the national forest is ill eagle! If Forest Service law enforcement finds out about it, I would expect a note to be left somewhere inside the building directing you to take it away by a certain date. Another thing the F.S. officer may do is to have your building removed and put into storage. They may leave you a note. It will say they have it and if you are interested come in to see them. When you arrive at their office you get a ticket, a lecture and no building. You would be cited for taking possession of federal land. I would be more concerned about going to court that I would be about a shooting hole in the back of the hut. For what it is worth.

[RanchoSueno]

I think he used that as a funny cover and it is actually on private land overlooking a good hay field

[Thegreatwapiti]

Come on Swede! Give me a little more credit than that. Pretty close Rancho! No hay field but definitely over a migration corridor. My boy and I each have a doe permit and each have a cow permit. Were in the secondary draw for 2 more buck permits and 2 more cow permits. Hopefully we can fill the freezer!

[Tigger]

Are you trying to say that your new blind is in Yellowstone?

[Thegreatwapiti]

I'm not saying it's not. Leaving tomorrow to work on the door, the roof and the siding. I'll be sure to flash my State Park Pass on the way in.

[Tigger]

It would be really cool to have a famous WapitiTalker! And if you pull it off, you would be!

In all seriousness, that looks really comfortable.

[Thegreatwapiti]

In all seriousness, that looks really comfortable.

Thanks Tigger! I've been thinking about this for many years and building it in my mind (collecting materials) for several months!
I plan on having different colored posts at the bottom of the valley with a corresponding map back in the blind. That way every yardage will be posted inside the blind.

[Swede]

My apology great wapiti.
People build different structures and leave them on the national forests. I have not bothered one but know they are not supposed to be there. If you came over with me to where I scout/hunt, I would take you to a very nice illegal structure on the national forest. Th person that built it has it pretty well hidden.
Permanent tree stands are common, and there is an occasional stick built out-house is left on site too. The District Ranger where I worked caused all kinds of hate and discontent when he had a rancher remove his barn from the forest. Garbage and litter are so common it is not worth pointing out. People even bring their trash from home to dump it on the national forest. I assume they don't want to pay for the disposal.
There are places in the area where I hunt where I won't camp due to the amount of trash including old beds and camping junk on site. It is unfortunate but I just didn't see your posts as the joke you intended.

[Thegreatwapiti]

No worries buddy, you made me laugh! It's sad that people treat land the way you described! Im an old timer and a tree stand hunter like you. Always built groundblinds in the forest. Trying something different this year. Can't chase them like I used to. PEACE!

[Elkhunttoo]

No worries buddy, you made me laugh! It's sad that people treat land the way you described! Im an old timer and a tree stand hunter like you. Always built groundblinds in the forest. Trying something different this year. Can't chase them like I used to. PEACE!

I knew there was more to this story ....Looks like a great blind


Hit the track again this morning, i ran over 25 miles last week and plan on doing about the same again this week.

[Swede]

Thanks, Great Wapiti. I probably came off rather harsh and condescending. That was not my intent. I have found that it is sometimes difficult to read in the proper expression a person intends when we read a post. That said indulge me a little more and I will add a couple more short antidotes.
When I was just starting out with the Forest Service, I was on the timber sale preparation crew. We were marking trees to be removed when I came upon a grave in one of our planned harvest units. There was a marker there the read "Here lies Fred Jackson, a woodsman, a lover of the hills." I asked one of the senior members of the crew about the grave and he explained that years ago Fred had built his cabin home on the Forest and would not move off. One day the sheriff and the district ranger went out to move Fred off the land. Still, Fred refused and before it was all over, they ended up planting him on "his" land.
Lately we are seeing a lot of "homeless" people moving onto public land in central Oregon. The Deschutes National Forest has been given a lot of press for moving many of these squatters. I am glad to not have to deal with this problem. I read that we have about 5% unemployment in the Country, but there are many that are not counted who have given up on looking for work, and there is about 20% of the people that are employed but not making enough to live on. Around here the average home price is around $500,000. I see the makings for a lot of people wanting to permanently camp on public land where they are not welcome guests.
And for you that see an opportunity to turn this into a political issue, please refrain. The problem exists regardless of who is in charge of the State or Federal government and will require a comprehensive effort across political lines. Right now, we have our larger cities threatening to force their homeless people to move, but the smaller cities and rural counties don't want then to, because they know the homeless will come to them, then they will have the problem.

[Elkhunttoo]

https://youtube.com/shorts/NbUyfvwvaxs?feature=shared


Here is a video of the bull I shot last year

[RanchoSueno]

Finally have my arrows tuned and hitting where I put them. I think my bow got bumped towards the end of last season or the new vanes I had put on my arrows was causing some deflection but now we're dialed in. Our 3d course starts back up in the next couple weeks. Excited to get back out there with my kiddos

[WapitiTalk1]

RS, what is your bow, arrow, BH set up? Actually, I’m going to start a new thread. Lol.

[Thegreatwapiti]

Worked on the blind for the last 3 days. Got everything dried in!

[RanchoSueno]

Heck yeah!! Killer setup! And what a beautiful view

[Elkhunttoo]

New brakes and belt on the pickup today…went running this morning

Still haven’t shot my bow

[Lefty]

I've just been shooting my bow, milking goats and getting the next pack pony dialed in. Colorado should be hitting credit cards after memorial day!

What is that brand?

[Lefty]

Worked on the blind for the last 3 days. Got everything dried in!

Lovely.
How much ground will you be watching over?

[RanchoSueno]

I've just been shooting my bow, milking goats and getting the next pack pony dialed in. Colorado should be hitting credit cards after memorial day!

What is that brand?

My personal ranch brand. He was wiggley so it didn't take perfect but my mustang's came out solid.

[RanchoSueno]

My old girl I've had for 20 years. She was the first equine after test running it on some goats lol

[Thegreatwapiti]

Lovely.
How much ground will you be watching over?

Roughly 500 yds deep by 1,000 yds wide.

[RanchoSueno]

Swapped ponies and decided to push Harley my mustang to the test. Don't want to burden the public with my young stud colt Queso. Harley is turning out to be a heck of a packer!! Crazy how a year ago I couldn't even touch her. Lots of shooting my bow and I think this is my best archery season yet.

[Lefty]

Hunted all Day Monday...Today I headed up ,,, cleaned up the bait site, picked up my blind and chair.. Moved and rakes the trail in and out so its easier to haul bait in.
I need to get trail cams out near elk camp

[Thegreatwapiti]

3 more days of hard work!

[Lefty]

Anxhoring to the side,,,, maybe a bit steep!

Keep those pics comiing

[Elkhunttoo]

Almost done with my new archery target. I have been going through all of last years trail cam videos trying to get ready to put them all back up in August

[WapitiTalk1]

Took a few hours to treat/waterproof the hunting boot(s) today, too hot to do much else Shot a handful of arrows, the Darton is on point. Hiked a bit with pack on, not feeling too bad.

[Elkhunttoo]

need to start going through all of my stuff, get rid of some and start organizing things for this year

[Swede]

I'm heading out next Tuesday for elk camp. I still get excited about spending time in the elk woods even for scouting. I have a bunch of places to look over. My shooting is not too bad, and things seem to be coming together with the hunt prep.

[Lefty]

Need to finish shingling and moving a shed,.. Then Im packing my backpack for an overnighter, Thinking of Deep Creek Mountain 2100 gain mostly glassing for stuff with horns. If that doenst happen maybe back up to elk camp and hike down

[RanchoSueno]

Decided to push my mare's tolerance and strapped a couple big, heavy 2nd cut bales to her and by golly, she couldn't have cared less! Lol I have no fear of strapping meat to her now. I've been super hesitant with pushing her after gentling her. I keep thinking she is one day going to flip the switch back to feral but she just keeps getting better with time. These mustangs are something else

[Thegreatwapiti]

I am officially finished! Just need to add flashing tape.

[Backyard]

3.48 miles of hills up and down with 45# in the pack this morning.


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[Elkhunttoo]

Good work out this morning. i cant believe how fast time is flying by. the season is right around the corner. I have shot the bow a few times now and its feeling really good. Time to settle in and enjoy the rest of the summer before the season gets underway

[Tigger]

Well it is looking less and less like I will be elk hunting this year. Really bummed about that. I have thought about taking one of my sons out on some type of leftover tag, but honestly, I dont even know where to start looking. Kinda bummed. But I am super happy that my elk hunting buddy is going to be fine after his accident. That is the most important thing. Hopefully next year.

[RanchoSueno]

I seen every archery tag that was nonresident elk(otc in past years) have leftover quotas that will go on-sale August 5th for Colorado.

I've been shooting my bow too and stretched it out to 60yds holding my pins high. Couldn't believe it when managed to double lung my Mckenzie target. I have a few extra arrows to kill, so I am trying to stretch it out to 70yds holding high to make everything ethical a chipshot

[Lefty]

Spent 10 hours hiking 1350 elevation up then down, 6. 2 miles 87 degrees at the trailhead at 6:00 PM.
Today I went through some gear. I really need a couple more merino wool tops.

[six]

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[WapitiTalk1]

Screenshot_20250715_144447_Garmin Connect_resize_26.jpg

Nice work mister. You may be able to run an elk down by the time season starts

[Lefty]

Spent some money:
Bought two lightweight warm weather hoodies, some thin wool, and boots...
A few items for a back county pack, And extended range antenna for my cell trail cam.

[Lefty]

I pulled some fence in the pasture today, in between washing and drying loads of elk hunting clothing, ,,,,, What I discovered ,,, I have a fairly expensive wardrobe

My wool underwear was delicately washed and line-dried, Same with al my tops, base layers, gloves and facemasks .
Everything washed in scent free-micro silver detergent.
All my pants, top and bottoms wool, lightweight hoodies and med weight, Jackets, and Bibbs packed into the scent free box,, Ill add some sage tomorrow
Washed out the back pack,
Tomorrow the RV,, gets ozoned,,, Ill pack my first-days backpack gear into a large ziplock

[WapitiTalk1]

Sharpened up some camp axes tonight. Also played around with the WRO Elk calls tonight they’re sounding good.

[Elkhunttoo]

https://youtu.be/QHkkLZvHOeY?feature=shared


Finished up my first scouting trip video yesterday.

It contains trail camera footage from last year. Today my wife and I celebrated our 21st anniversary

[Lefty]

Went though another box of hunting gear.
Put almost anything I could use opening day in a big ziplock then in my pack

Walked out to the shop to finish up my skinning knife,,,, , hmm it was already as sharp as I can get it,,,

I think I just start walking in circles once everything is nearly ready 6 weeks early,,,,
Tossed a fresh can of bear spray into my pack

[WapitiTalk1]

https://youtu.be/QHkkLZvHOeY?feature=shared


Finished up my first scouting trip video yesterday.

It contains trail camera footage from last year. Today my wife and I celebrated our 21st anniversary

Congrats mister, a great milestone!

[Elkhunttoo]

Thanks RJ

IMG_9109.png (44.67 KiB) Viewed 99376 times

5 mile jog this morning

[Lefty]

My doc said my numbers are all betterthan in the past 67years for sure
BP 118/78
A1C 6.
Cholesterol 170 and

Welll it wasn't caffeine. why I may have the shakes

I pretty sure these are 2 of the bulls I was on the last day, 55 yards and 70 yards The forward bull I saw opening morning and hour before LST

Ive been tracking this golden boys range and he put me back on these two

The big bull is alway behind

I hiked a short distance into the small area I suspected is a bachelor pad... And I think yep. Put out 2 more cameras

[Elkhunttoo]

Run this morning….work during the day….shoot the bow this evening

[RanchoSueno]

It was "arm day" at the barrel race this past weekend. Otherwise, just been continuing to shoot the bow and work horses. 44 more days!

[Thegreatwapiti]

It was "arm day"

Damn Rancho! Suns out, guns out!!

[Swede]

I am cooking a big pot of chili for my upcoming hunt as I type this. The trouble is that it will all be eaten before I can freeze it and load it in my cooler. Oh well. This will be a lot like scouting. I am just checking things out in preparation for the real thing.

[Lefty]

I am cooking a big pot of chili for my upcoming hunt as I type this. The trouble is that it will all be eaten before I can freeze it and load it in my cooler. Oh well. This will be a lot like scouting. I am just checking things out in preparation for the real thing.

I made a big pot of baked beans,,, Just practicing for the season too.


My wife patched my favorite Bids which had some serious wear holes .
My Sitka bibs had a hole in the lining too.
Open aired some new clothes and undergarments, Washed twice, dried, and will be packed in sage tonight or tomorrow

All my clothes are ready except for footwear.


I was notified Ill be the father-of the-bride Sept 6th; My daughters comment , " its not during the rut",,,,,,,,Only parents , siblings and the Bishop,,, ( congregation clergy leadership). And maybe in our backyard.

[RanchoSueno]

Had a beautiful Sunday morning on the 3D archery course! Only 39 more days

[Lefty]

Rancho if you put that on Photo of the month Ill vote for the little guy and his bow

[Lefty]

Sprayed down all my boots and my new Irish Setter boots with boot protector.

Wearing the new boots to get my feet use to them

I just couldn't find Kenetrek s for under $200

[Thegreatwapiti]

Anybody know who is living on my property? I set up a cam today!! 2 different holes....20' apart.

[WapitiTalk1]

I’d say badger but the holes look too small?

[Lefty]

The holes have been there a while

Badgers generally have 8-9 holes ( The boss is right a bit too small) Often the dirt will be piled up in a pile as they kick the dirt out. Most often a fresh hole will have a flat bottom,,,

Otherwise today for season prep. the last of any clothes were heavy wool tops hung up in the RV ,, which was scrubbed clean , with peroxide, and lots of fresh sage hung in the camper.



Next up is the kill kit,freezer, and generator, check,,,
Found out yesterday . My past 7 seasons have all been to get my daughter a big bull . She's recovering from ACL surgery and the Dr said absolutely no about the elk hunt.

[>>>---WW---->]

hope she gets well soon Lefty

[Thegreatwapiti]

I’d say badger but the holes look too small?

Question answered!

[RanchoSueno]

Only one more month to go!! Archery course runs every Sunday so no excuse to not get after it

[Tigger]

It really is painful to read this thread since I don't have an elk tag this year. I struggle to open it.

[7mmfan]

It really is painful to read this thread since I don't have an elk tag this year. I struggle to open it.

I also will not be elk hunting this year Tigger. Get over it.

[7mmfan]

I'm sorry, that came off as rude. Maybe you need to find a new hobby? Maybe quilting? Boche ball? Model airplanes? Something to keep your mind off the fact that you don't get to spend September in the elk woods

[Swede]

Guys, I can emphasize with you, but I know we have become spoiled. We expect to go hunting a high-quality area every season, where there is a high probability of getting a good bull or buck. Back in what I consider the glory days of hunting, my dad would pack up after logging all day and would head out for eastern Oregon. My memory is a little dim here, but I believe it cost $4.00 for a hunting license, $!.00 for a deer tag and $5.00 for an elk tag. You could hunt any open area in the state.
Dad would go with a friend and everything they needed was loaded in a short narrow box pickup. Camping was simple and primitive. Dad and his friend would be gone for about 9 days. Sometimes they got something and sometimes they didn't.
We still have some open areas like that to hunt, but we (you and I) are spoiled. I have this attitude that I will go where I want or I won't go at all. Dad and his friend went different places for different reasons with far less equipment and fewer amenities to keep them comfortable. When I go, I have a full truck and 10-foot utility trailer just with my stuff. I have fun, but I don't think I have more fun that my dad and his friend had.
I will never forget the last word I heard dad utter shortly before he died. It was a warm July afternoon, and I looked down at him in bed and said, "I wish we could just go out and cut a load of wood together today." He looked up at me and faintly replied "hunting".
Dad could not go hunting anymore, but I think we can if we really want to. We just need to quit feeling sorry for ourselves and sort a few things out.

[Elkhunttoo]

As of yesterday Tree stands are up and ready. My wife’s deer hunt starts in 7 days. My son and I went up and finished setting things up…we also put a trail camera in a saddle that I think has some real potential that I have possibly overlooked

[Swede]

I have just about everything ready to load into the truck and trailer. Even the ATV is full of fuel. I have some grocery shopping to do, make some ice, and I will do some more shooting. After missing last season, I am waiting for the season to open like a kid longing for Christmas.
I will have a great bunch to hang out with this season, but they will only be with me at times. I wish some of you jerks were hunting with me too. Maybe I could help you pack out or maybe you could help me.

[Elkhunttoo]

I have just about everything ready to load into the truck and trailer. Even the ATV is full of fuel. I have some grocery shopping to do, make some ice, and I will do some more shooting. After missing last season, I am waiting for the season to open like a kid longing for Christmas.
I will have a great bunch to hang out with this season, but they will only be with me at times. I wish some of you jerks were hunting with me too. Maybe I could help you pack out or maybe you could help me.

I’m excited for you to get back out Swede! Glad all is going well for you

[Swede]

Thanks Elkhunttoo: My wife and I are in good health and doing well. I am blessed of the Lord beyond measure.

[Lefty]

I obtained a meat pack never used and a bargin, put it in the camper.
Then this week cleaning out the friends cabin they had a washing machine that going to camp

An enclosed con 2 gallon container, Maybe more of a nuisance than my dishpan method,, but Ill give it a go

[RanchoSueno]

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Beautiful morning for a jog... err.. trot I am just along for the ride. Three more weeks!!

[Elkhunttoo]

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I was in Walmart today and these were on a killer sale so I bought 3 packs….not sure if I will use them this year or not. I will use whatever flies best for me out of the now 3 kinds that I have

Ran this morning….season is getting close

[Lefty]

Im messing up

Today will be day 4 without shooting

[Lefty]

Going out now to shoot,,, Arms have been doing well , Im mostly practicing a littles smooth movement draw.

What I really need to do is send the picture of the bow a neighbor helped me buy in 1971,, and remind him of the story behind the bow

[Lefty]

Well now its time to sight in the bow and identify each pins distance . I have the strength to hold I couldn't even draw for a few month

[Elkhunttoo]

Broadheads on and shooting great! we are getting so close

[Lefty]

I rounded up all the canned goods that will go up the first week.
Lined up my meds
I need to do a kill kit check before I load it in the camper

[Elkhunttoo]

A good run this morning…work all day….hopefully go through and organize some stuff this evening along with shooting my bow

[Lefty]

Shoting a few arrows.

Last night an early Costco run for dry goods.
Today Ill pick up rodent killer at Cal Ranch

Rechecked the kill kit, Added some Wicked Sharp Wiebe Replacement Blades. Ok a shameless plug but I really like the replacement blades

[RanchoSueno]

Just got the pack pony shod all the way around! Going to spend the next couple weeks fine tuning, going through pack and keeping the mind busy more or less. Literally chopping at the bit at this point

[Swede]

Does your pack pony like its new shoes or are you just too old to understand the younger generation?

[RanchoSueno]

I asked if they make her run any faster but she just stood there with a long face

[Swede]

Poor girl. She is going to be worked like a borrowed mule! The least you can do is paint her new shoes pink.

[WapitiTalk1]

I asked if they make her run any faster but she just stood there with a long face

LOL, “why the long face”?

[WapitiTalk1]

Did a few miles with ruck on and shot a good handful of arrows. The Darton is locked down and shooting better than me. Getting close……

[WapitiTalk1]

Also did a bit of calling practice…. Really liking the new WRO calls I’ve been playing around with… elk will fall this year.

[Swede]

"The Darton is locked down and shooting better than me."

Isn't that the truth? I keep on practicing, but I am not improving. A new bow is not what I need.

[Elkhunttoo]

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I went up today and finished setting the tree stands and trail cameras…I had to put a little blind material on the one stand….this was a young bull that hit the water last week…I’ve had cows hit it twice in the last two weeks


The big bulls will follow

[RanchoSueno]

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I think we are ready. We can ride bow in hand! Less than 200hrs till we are west bound.

[Lefty]

Yesterday I loaded up a bunch of odd and ends in our little 5x8 trailer:
kill kit,
grill,
propane,
gasoline,
meat packs
toilet,
generator ,
water,
dry foods,
solar panel
tent ( for guests if anyone shows ).
Pulled the trailer up in the AM. Had some great visits with my Snow goose partner and also with my bear expert

Set up that part of camp, then pulled SD cards and a camera,
Plenty of rain,,, should be a little quieter in the woods , Mounted a motion light, to help with those night time outside trips. And the most important thing,,, placed lots of mouse bait,,, I want every mouse, shrew, and those cute little wire eating chipmunk dead. I wish death to every little rodent near camp.

Tomorrow Ill put the small cooler in the freezer, to pack all the fridge things for the ride Saturday. Top off all the RV batteries, check the heater and refrigerator . Fill the water bladder
Camp is ready to pull in, unload the ATV, unhook

I think Ill purchase a phone battery.
It was wet and slimy on the road,,, but many had the same idea as me,,, trailers pulling into the Forest everywhere

[Lefty]

I moved my camp across the FS road,,, the old growth timber was dying and falling

[Lefty]

Not much to do today Just wait till leaving time. I originally had plans for my yard and pasture maintenance. But yesterday I stepped out of the RV,,, something happened to my knee and leg,,, hopefully that heals up in the next few days

I replaced both RV batteries yesterday, one battery was 12 years old, the other 7, The old battery the case had cracked , the other will not hold a charge for 3 days .I had limped them along the last couple years,, using my generator more and more,


Today Ill retire my practice arrows and replace them. Maybe mount the quiver on my bow,
A couple biggies,,, planned for today,

Run to the Idaho Fish and game for my trapping license and elk tag,
Run daisy then load the ATV, fill the water bladder,
replace the ball hitch,,,
Take my wife out to dinner, Some place cheap,,,,

[Elkhunttoo]

Way to save that dinner money for fuel lefty

[RanchoSueno]

Oh lord, I'm surprised she lets you out to hunt hahaha
Remember, happy spouse = happy house. I'm hauling my husband and kiddo out for their first rocky mtn adventure and then sending them home on a plane so I can get after it this season. Hoping they'll both get bit by the elk bug

[saddlesore]

I was planning to go up to where I hunted before during fist rifle season. I would only be riding around on my mule . However the big forest fire is only about 1/2 mile of where I was going to go. The road is closed at present to local residents only. The fire is only 4% contained

Chelsea, It might be a little smoky where you mentioned you might go.There has been big fire just SW of there.

[RanchoSueno]

I checked in with some locals I met last season and they have gotten rain all week. They lifted the fire ban and said the back country looks green and lively again. Hopefully there'll be mild, beautiful weather to come!

[Elkhunttoo]

It’s here people! My hunt is here! I will be sitting in my tree stand for the sunrise tomorrow morning enjoying another opening day!!!

Good luck to all

[Lefty]

I took my wife out for lunch , her choice was Olive Garde: Lunch specials came to a total $24.00 ,,,

Ended up our waiter is a hardcore big game hunter, My wife invited him to come and hunt with me.

Young guy, said he would pack out my elk.

[Thegreatwapiti]

I filled my tag tonight. First legal elk. Shot at 7:15pm from the box blind I built this summer.

[RanchoSueno]

Got into a lot of mulies and grouse the past few days. My family had a blast tagging along. Just sent my boys home on a plane and time to load up the horse and pack in. We did hear some bugles the other night. Sounded like a satellite and a herd bull grunting back to him. Hopefully they aren't too far from where we left them

[Tigger]

If there was a "Like" button, I would hit it Rancho!

[>>>---WW---->]

Looks like Greatwapiti will be filling his freezer. Congratulations!! And go get em Rancho!

[RanchoSueno]

Swapped areas and finally getting into fresh sign. Was waiting out on a stinky, muddy wallow but a pop up thunderstorm ran me out. Hiding in the truck

[Tigger]

Those are elk duds. Super tasty.

[Swede]

Bull taken September 9, 2025

[Lefty]

Congratulation Swede

I had a similar 5 x5. 21 yd in front of me Saturday evening. When he stepped out of the way of the quakies his butt was facing me

[RanchoSueno]

Another year of tag soup! In fact, my least elky year in 5 seasons. Heard one bull bugling the night of the 7th and 8th then not another there after. Tried to work into that area where he had been bugling from but found out someone already beat me to him. Spent a day on foot after packing my mule deer out on my pony and right at last light, I bumped a beautiful bull at 25yds. He was the biggest I'd ever seen in the unit in all these seasons and finally stopped at 68yds. I was full draw floating my pins on him but second guessed and let down. Didn't see or hear another elk after that. I definitely got into areas they had been but they were unusually quiet this year and I must have been a step or two behind them. Going to give 2026 a break and then put in for a limited tag in 2027 and see if I can't finally fill an archery elk tag till then, tomorrow starts our whitetail archery opener!

[Swede]

Rancho, I am disappointed that you did not bag a good elk. I know you try and give it your best. I really hope you can go next season. I don't want you on the sidelines until you are ancient, sitting in a rocking chair telling listeners what it was like back in your day.

https://www.cabelas.com/b/elk-hunting

Check out the Fred Eichler article, "To Call, or Not to Call." I actually believe Fred understates the case for silent elk hunting. Elk are wise to calling in predators in wolf country, and hunters in easy draw hunt units.

[RanchoSueno]

Oh I'll be back Swede! My mare is bred for a spring foal and I have some home renovations I promised to a "pause on the cause" for though I only promised "western" elk.. if I draw a michigan or kentucky tag, I'll be in the elk woods