New Member "Spotlight", Spring 2014

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 1]

There's a lot of new Elknuts that have joined our fine forum over the past handfull of weeks. If you're new to our campfire, please chime in and do a quick intro.

by **Shawn032** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 2]

Hello Everyone.
Shawn032 here I am from Missouri and whitetail, predator and waterfowl hunt in M.O.
I have elk hunted 3 times in Arizona and once in Colorado back in the early 90s. Blessed to have harvested a cow in Arizona on my last Elk hunt in 94. I miss hunting out west.
Thanks for letting me be apart of this forum.
Shawn032

by **Indian Summer** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 3]

Welcome Shawn. It is now the 10th anniversary of no elk hunting for you. We need to change that! Glad you found your way here and hope to see you around more often. Don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have and most likely someone here will be able to give a solid answer based on actual experience.

When do you hope to be able to hunt elk again?

by **Swede** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 4]

It is great to have all of the new elknuts around the camp fire. I think it has helped that Indian Summer has quit putting in the secret sauce in the beans. People are just plain friendly and the camp fire is a good place to hang out. There was just no way everyone could be up-wind of everyone else. It is reassuring that we can relax and just discuss hunting. For a while there was no way RJ could even safely back up to the fire.

by **Toby** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 5]

Welcome Shawn.

by **Shawn032** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 6]

Thanks everyone
Indian, 3 friends and I are thinking about doing a otc rifle elk hunt this fall. I am the lucky one that get to do the investigation on our hunt. One thing I have found out is trying to figure out which gmu to hunt. The only time I hunted in Colorado I don't remember what unit we hunted. It was one of those last minute hunts someone else planned the hunt. If I remember correctly we hunted southwest of
Gunnison.

by **Olydog09** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 7]

Welcome Shawn, I am sure someone familar with Co may get you pointed in the right direction. Good luck.

by **Ghost** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 8]

Welcome Shawn, I think youll find that this is probably the best message board as far as information and friendly posters, Ive only been here couple of months and already I feel like one of the crew, motley as it maybe

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 9]

Welcome Shawn. Glad to have you on board.

by **Washington Wapiti** » 04 02, 2014 • [Post 10]

Welcome Shawn!

by **juglow** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 11]

juglow here. I live is PA chasing anything outdoors. Its a passion of mine to start elk hunting...looking forward to getting into it and learning a lot from you guys.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 12]

Welcome to "the" elk hunting forum Jeremiah. There's a spare log on the other side of the campfire for you to plop down on. Chime in anytime you have something to say or ask. Oh, check your log out real carefull before you sit down each time. Swede likes to put a hot coal under the moss growing on our campfire logs for some reason 8-)

by **nippip** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 13]

I too am new to the nut, but in lurking around I can tell this is a good bunch of folk. I am also new to bow hunting and have only been chasing elk for two years with a bang stick. Trying to get my learn on as bow hunting seems like going from T-ball to the majors in comparison to rifle.
One question I have is why not start out with a back tension release as it seems that it will really help in ways as long as my nose survives the learning curve.
Thanks aging form making such a great place for folks to hang!
Nippip

by **elk.addict** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 14]

Hi, my name is Jon. I am an elk addict

I have posted here a few times and have been a member for a while, but haven't officially introduced myself....
I live is SW MT but I am originally am from SW WA. I've been bow hunting elk for about 13 years now. I really enjoy learning new elk hunting techniques/tactics, which is why I can often be found on this forum. A lot of good info is shared on this site and I hope to contribute.

by **phall** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 15]

Patrick, im from Tennessee. i love everything outdoors hunted whitetails and turkey since i was 8 or 9, but bugling elk are by far my favorite followed by whitetail, turkey, and ducks. wetting a line ranks on up there too when they are biting. this will be my third year elk hunting all in colorado mutilple units, DIY, and hardcore backcountry. had some overly addicting heart pounding close calls but not shots. ill pick up a rifle from time to time but archery is my go to. i love that with all types of hunting and fishing learning never stops. I've always lifted lots of weight and run and do my best to stay active and healthy. i work in healthcare

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 16]

nippip, Jon, and Patrick, welcome to the campfire guys! I know Swede doesn't appear to be a trouble maker but watch him closely. There was a huge incident last year where several of our campfire benches mysteriously had legs partially sawed through so folks fell on their arses when they sat down. Let me know if you see him up to anything suspicious

by **Swede** » 04 04, 2014 • [Post 17]

Welcome to the campfire all of you newer folks. Join in and liven up the conversation. Keep an eye on RJ, and don't let Elknut take your seat when you get up to refill your coffee cup. Elknut hates being in the smoke so he will play musical chairs with your seat.

by **Duck-Slayer** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 18]

hey all,
I'm live here in Idaho..... grew up in E. Montana.... lived here for about 14 years.... great state.... i'm 30 or so..... I hunt everything with the bow pretty much, don't pick up the gun too often... wife loves too hunt with the rifle which is a plus... got 2 great kids.... and I hunt for the love of the outdoors and too fill the freezer for the coming year, so I hunt and fish alot too make that happen......
Matt

by **elkaholic** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 19]

Welcome to the forum Matt and the rest of you folks. With tons of info and great folks here, it won't need long before this is the only forum you watch.

by **Trophyhill** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 20]

Welcome to all the new guys. Look forward to learning from you all!

by **bownarrow** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 21]

Hey guys, my name is Kelly Wendlandt, I am from Wisconsin and an avid bow Whitetail deer and Elk hunter. I started hunting elk relatively late in life (age 40) due to family and work duties, but have been on 10 elk hunts since (I'm 47 now). I appreciate all of your expertise and willingness to share information; purchasing Paul's playbook/DVD's was a major step forward for me 4 year back and helped me significantly in my elk encounters (actually having some; ).

Nice to more formally meet you'all and come out from lurking.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 22]

Matt, Kelly,

Welcome to 'the' elk forum guys. Glad to have you at our campfire.

by **Russellm66** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 23]

Hello all
I'm Russell from central Illinois. I'm 47 bow hunt whitetail and predator hunt. I have been elk hunting once about 4 years ago with my Dad . We went to Colorado. I saw 1 cow. My bother-n-law and I are going to go to Idaho 2015 to bow hunt elk. We plan on making this a yearly thing. After lurking on this site and Rokslide I have come to realize even if he isn't able to go I can do this on my own. I'm reading Cameron Hanes book right now and plan on getting Elknut's Playbook and DVDs on calling soon. I have started P90x and started trying figure out what gear I will need and buy it with out my wife realizing how much it cost. I really appreciate this site for shortening the learning curve and any advice is appreciated

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 05, 2014 • [Post 24]

Welcome Russell! Glad to have you on board.

by **ElkNut1** » 04 06, 2014 • [Post 25]

A big hearty welcome to all you new to the forum but not new to hunting folks! It's great to see the outstanding growth here, thanks guys we're glad to see you stop by & chat a bit!

ElkNut1

by **Trophyhill** » 04 06, 2014 • [Post 26]

Glad to see some of the guys that are getting a late start joining the elk killin forum. I started in my mid 40's too and applying Paul's stuff cut my learning curve significantly although I'm still learning and have a long way to go. Good luck all!

by **ericleep** » 04 07, 2014 • [Post 27]

My name is Eric Phillips. I am originally from Utah, and have been hunting elk with a bow there seriously 5 of the past 6 years. I took a year off to move overseas for work and it was the worst decision I ever made. Last fall, I had the most vivid elk hunting dream of my life on opening weekend. I woke up so depressed once I realized that I was not going hunting. I am really looking forward to getting back into the elk this fall. I have been reading this forum, and a number of other elk hunting forums, for the past 6 months and find this one the most down to earth. I really have learned a lot and look forward to continue learning from you guys.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 07, 2014 • [Post 28]

Welcome to "the" elk forum Eric. Glad to have you at our campfire! If you don't see a topic of discussion (thread) you may be interested in, please feel free to start a new one. I feel your pain about being out of the country during elk season. My Army time did that to me more than a few times

Before you leave your tent in the evening and come sit around the Elknut campfire, make sure your tent is zipped up tight! Guys like Swede, Indian Summer, and Trophyhill are our local pranksters and will mess with your things.. They've been known to superglue sleeping bag zippers, put mountain salamanders in coffee cups, etc. If any one of them leave the campfire for longer than a few minutes, they're up to no good

by **RJSbuckeye** » 04 07, 2014 • [Post 29]

Hey guys! My name is Ryan. I'm currently a student at The Ohio State University pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering. I graduate in December (thank the good Lord). I joined because I plan on taking my father elk hunting in October 2015 because it has always been a dream of his. I'm trying to take in as much information as I can so that we can be successful. I am an avid whitetail and turkey hunter but have never taken on any big game. This has been a really great resource so far and I appreciate y'all being so friendly!

by **ranjo** » 04 09, 2014 • [Post 30]

Hi, My name is Randy Meyer, from northwest Iowa. My main passion all my life has been muskie fishing and of course iowa whitetails. A buddy and I made our first backcountry elk hunt last year and it was amazing, more than I ever would have expected. I gained a lot of knowledge here preparing for that trip so I can take this opportunity to say Thanks to all. I had the opportunity to talk to Paul as I was having some issues getting my playbook ordered, he's a little passionate lol, I'm looking forward to learning and putting the pieces together on here so I get tagged out next year.. Thanks again Randy

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 09, 2014 • [Post 31]

Ryan; Randy,

Welcome to "the" elk forum. Looks like we need to cut some more logs for our elk camp. Indian Summer, I believe it's your turn to get firewood (Swede got it last time). Pull up a chair guys, grab a beverage of choice, and please...chime in whenever and wherever you want.

by **ElkNut1** » 04 09, 2014 • [Post 32]

Hey Randy, thanks for stooping by! I'm guilty as charged for talking too much elk! (grin)

ElkNut1

by **JES_Wisc** » 04 09, 2014 • [Post 33]

Hello Everyone,

I am from Wisconsin and I have been elk hunting off and on for about 10-15 years. All of the hunts were in Colorado and all were with a bow. Elk, Whitetail, turkey and Coyote hunting are my favorite but I hunt anything else I can find time for. I just signed on very recently, but so far everyone has been very welcoming, responsive to posts and I appreciate it.

by **Olydog09** » 04 09, 2014 • [Post 34]

Duck-Slayer wrote:hey all,
I'm live here in Idaho..... grew up in E. Montana.... lived here for about 14 years.... great state.... i'm 30 or so..... I hunt everything with the bow pretty much, don't pick up the gun too often... wife loves too hunt with the rifle which is a plus... got 2 great kids.... and I hunt for the love of the outdoors and too fill the freezer for the coming year, so I hunt and fish alot too make that happen......
Matt

Welcome Matt!

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 21, 2014 • [Post 35]

Just checked the new member list and holy catfish, a bunch more new Elknuts have joined the campfire in the past few weeks! Here's a good way to get one of your three required posts done (you need three before you can PM). Please, do a quick intro and let us know a little about yourself. Welcome!

by **Swede** » 04 21, 2014 • [Post 36]

Boy, I did not realize how long it had been since I reviewed this thread. Welcome to all of you new to camp here. I would like to say I was out hunting, but I was just snoozing and dreaming about next season. Pull up a camp chair, block of wood or whatever you can find and join right in.

by **Gselkhunter** » 04 21, 2014 • [Post 37]

Hello all, I am Gregg[AKA Gselkhunter] and have been around elk and elk hunting for many years. I live in CO and am in the high country as much as I can be. I have known Paul and Rory for some time now. So they twisted my arm a little.

by **ElkNut1** » 04 21, 2014 • [Post 38]

Gregg, ha ha, should have twisted a bit harder a bit earlier! Thanks bud!

ElkNut1

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 21, 2014 • [Post 39]

Welcome to 'the' elk forum Gregg. Glad to have a gentleman with such vast elk hunting knowledge (not to mention top of the scale calling skills) join our campfire. Watch out for Indian Summer and Swede, they'll mess with your log when you get up from the fire.

by **ChadS** » 04 21, 2014 • [Post 40]

Hey fellas, Thanks for letting me join.

I grew up in west Michigan hunting and fishing my tail off. I wanted to shoot an elk with my bow so I decided to move out Colorado in '08. I've shot some rags since I've been here and pretty much every year been real close to killing some solid bulls. But not because I know what I'm doing in the elk world, just hard work and hard knocks. I want to learn more about why I've called elk in, and what the heck I'm doing out there. I think I might be able to fill in a bunch of blanks by reading as much as I can on this forum. I have a lot of questions, but I'm going to try to read everything first before I ask dumb noob questions. I just ordered the playbook so it should be in the mail soon.

I live just east of Parker, CO. I pretty much only bow hunt. Love shed hunting and scouting and being in the high country as much as possible.

by **Gselkhunter** » 04 22, 2014 • [Post 41]

ElkNut1 wrote:Gregg, ha ha, should have twisted a bit harder a bit earlier! Thanks bud!

ElkNut1

Not like you and Rory haven't tried! See if I can do some good here Paul.

by **Gselkhunter** » 04 22, 2014 • [Post 42]

ChadS wrote:Hey fellas, Thanks for letting me join.

I grew up in west Michigan hunting and fishing my tail off. I wanted to shoot an elk with my bow so I decided to move out Colorado in '08. I've shot some rags since I've been here and pretty much every year been real close to killing some solid bulls. But not because I know what I'm doing in the elk world, just hard work and hard knocks. I want to learn more about why I've called elk in, and what the heck I'm doing out there. I think I might be able to fill in a bunch of blanks by reading as much as I can on this forum. I have a lot of questions, but I'm going to try to read everything first before I ask dumb noob questions. I just ordered the playbook so it should be in the mail soon.

I live just east of Parker, CO. I pretty much only bow hunt. Love shed hunting and scouting and being in the high country as much as possible.

Welcome Chad, the way you are learning with boots on ground is the best way. Since your here in CO spend all summer[days you can] in the middle of herds, watch and listen. Then use Paul's CDs/DVDs and match up sounds. You will put pieces in the puzzle and next fall you will look at things from a different perspective. I am going to add one more piece:
"Elk of North America Ecology and Management"
Between your boots on ground, Paul's teaching and pure elk knowledge you will turn into a very good elk hunter.

by **ElkNut1** » 04 22, 2014 • [Post 43]

Chad, welcome aboard! Great advice from Gselkhunter there! Too, this Forum is a very good place to help fill in the blanks as well. Thanks for coming by!

ElkNut1

by **TxTechChuck4** » 04 22, 2014 • [Post 44]

Hey Everyone, I'm Charlie, moved to Denver, Colorado from Texas back in September. Have been hunting Whitetail all my life, strictly bow hunt after getting hooked 3 years ago. Plan on hunting OTC elk this summer, looking at Unit 37 and 371 as my in laws have a cabin in Fairplay which I plan on using as basecamp during scouting and hunting season. I am trying to cram as much knowledge about Elk in as possible right now. Any archery tips, what is the best part of archery season to go out? What grain arrow is the best for elk. I'm shooting a Mathews MR6 with a 70 lb draw, 285 ft/s w/ a 389 grain arrow. I should have enough kinetic energy to take down an elk based off the numbers, that being said is it recommended to run heavier arrow, fixed or mechanical broadhead? I've also been getting acquainted with the Atlas on Colorado parks and wildlife website, is that pretty accurate regarding migration patterns, concentration areas ect...

by **Indian Summer** » 04 22, 2014 • [Post 45]

ranjo wrote:Hi, My name is Randy Meyer, from northwest Iowa. My main passion all my life has been muskie fishing and of course iowa whitetails.

Where does a guy from Iowa fish for muskies? Minnesota, Lake St Clair? I'm a muskie nut myself. Founded the Three Rivers chaper of Muskies Inc in Pittsburgh back in 96. CSR Bowhunter is "hooked" too. Look for my St Clair report when I get back from fishing the last week of June. Last year was insane. One day we boated 56 of 65 rips. yeah... we have a few things figured out. Anyway welcome to Elk City U.S.A man!

And same for all of our other new members. I thought things might slow down a little when the warm weather rolled in but I'm glad to see I was wrong. I like the "down to earth" description from Ericleep. Thanks.. we try.

I waited until Phantom was downwind of the fire ring to chuck a log on. :lol:

bwaahaahaha

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 22, 2014 • [Post 46]

TxTechChuck4 wrote:Hey Everyone, I'm Charlie, moved to Denver, Colorado from Texas back in September. Have been hunting Whitetail all my life, strictly bow hunt after getting hooked 3 years ago. Plan on hunting OTC elk this summer, looking at Unit 37 and 371 as my in laws have a cabin in Fairplay which I plan on using as basecamp during scouting and hunting season. I am trying to cram as much knowledge about Elk in as possible right now. Any archery tips, what is the best part of archery season to go out? What grain arrow is the best for elk. I'm shooting a Mathews MR6 with a 70 lb draw, 285 ft/s w/ a 389 grain arrow. I should have enough kinetic energy to take down an elk based off the numbers, that being said is it recommended to run heavier arrow, fixed or mechanical broadhead? I've also been getting acquainted with the Atlas on Colorado parks and wildlife website, is that pretty accurate regarding migration patterns, concentration areas ect...

Welcome to "the" elk forum Charlie. Pull up a log by the fire and chime in whenever you wish. I recommend you dig around in the archives and Elknut's Tips and Clips on top of this page for starters. There's a ton of information there that'll get you going and perhaps, touch on some of the questions you have. If you have specific questions, ask them one or two at a time. Too many questions at once confuse us old guys

Again, welcome!

by **ChadS** » 04 24, 2014 • [Post 47]

Gselkhunter, was the book you were referring too, "North American Elk: Ecology and Management" ???

https://www.wildlifemanagementinstitute ... ctid=16162

Thanks in advance!

by **WapitiTalk1** » 04 24, 2014 • [Post 48]

ChadS, yep, that's the book GS was referring to.

by **Drawnandpinned** » 05 14, 2014 • [Post 49]

Hi guys I'm Bryan I'm from sw Montana I love to hunt and fish I'm new to bow hunting this year can't wait to see what happens this year hoping to get out and scout some new areas soon and look for some sheds thanks for all the info and knowledge on here I will pick a few brains later on

by **WapitiTalk1** » 05 14, 2014 • [Post 50]

Howdy Bryan. Welcome to "the" elk forum. SW MT is a great part of the elk world to live in. Best of luck this fall. RJ

Edit: Watch that Swede character closely. It's rumored (just what I've heard) that he'll put a few drops of super quick setting gorilla glue on your tent zipper when you're not around.

by **Mnbowhunter** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 51]

Hello everyone my name is dave im from northern wi. Ive been a member for awhile but just started posting. Ive been bowhunting for 24 yrs most whitetail . I did a couple of mulie hunts in nv in the 90s . k went on my 1st elk hunt with my dad last yr with a rifle and cant wait to go. After them with my bow next year

by **timberland** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 52]

Welcome Dave-
Lots of great guys from our area here and lots of great info. I live in Burnett Co. Always live in fear of being annexed into MN :lol:

by **ElkNut1** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 53]

Welcome guys, thank you for signing in & introducing yourselves!

ElkNut1

by **Arkie** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 54]

Hi Guys. I'm Dustin from AR. Long time lurker first time poster. I've made a couple trips out west in September now and while I haven't sealed the deal, I can say that I'm hooked! Learned a lot just by reading all that you guys freely post. Thanks for the info!

by **WapitiTalk1** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 55]

Welcome Dave and Dustin! Glad to have you on board. Please pull up a log by the fire and chime in whenever you want. No, those M&Ms laying around the camp site are not normal for this area. Swede likes to sit in his treestand and slingshot them dang things at us when we're sitting around the fire and talking about the next season's hunt. I fixed him though.... I unscrewed and hid the bottom three steps in his tree .

by **NoWiser** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 56]

My name is Jim and I'm from Minnesota. I joined about a year ago but, without much experience, I don't have much expertise to add. Hopefully as I get a few more elk hunts under my belt I'll be able to chime in more. I hunted Wyoming with my dad last year and we had a lot of fun but came home soaking wet and elkless. This year we drew great Gila tags so September will be here before we know it! We are strictly DIY hunters so our learning curve is a little slow but we sure have fun!

by **Backyard** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 57]

Hey guys,
I'm also from MN. North of the Twin Cities area.
I started elk hunting in '99 when a co-worker invited me out to Colorado and have been hooked ever since.
I've also got the same problem that I see a few other have on this and other boards: my hunting partners have either gotten too old, or been there don't want to again, or it's too expensive, etc.. So I may be doing my first solo backpack trip this year. I'm no stranger to wilderness camping and hunting, just haven't done a solo yet so it should be interesting.

Anyway, good to be here!
Dave

by **Wapiti7** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 58]

Jeff Hix here. I'm a CPA in Albuquerque, NM (yes dorks can hunt too). I primarily hunt down in the Gila, mostly elk but occasionally mulies and bear. The rest of my time is spent coaching my 8 year old in baseball, basketball and football, watching my 6 year old daughter in gymnastics and cheer and getting to the lake and wakeboarding. I recently left peeping tom status to chime in on some of threads started by non-residents drawing tags in the Gila. Now that tax season is over I spend way too much time on this site.

by **Olydog09** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 59]

Wapiti7 wrote:Jeff Hix here. I'm a CPA in Albuquerque, NM (yes dorks can hunt too). I primarily hunt down in the Gila, mostly elk but occasionally mulies and bear. The rest of my time is spent coaching my 8 year old in baseball, basketball and football, watching my 6 year old daughter in gymnastics and cheer and getting to the lake and wakeboarding. I recently left peeping tom status to chime in on some of threads started by non-residents drawing tags in the Gila. Now that tax season is over I spend way too much time on this site.

Welcome Jeff. NM is a great state for elk hunting.

by **Conrad8899** » 05 15, 2014 • [Post 60]

Rodney, I am from NW Pa. I have hunted elk since 09. Mostly in Co. Made one trip to Wyoming. I hunt with a bow or rifle... Heading back to Co this year.....

by **JPD350** » 05 16, 2014 • [Post 61]

My name is JP (John Pearce) and I am from Abq NM. I joined this site when it first began but I must of been purged due to never posting and working way to much. Recently I seem to have extra time on my hands due to an ATV accident, no work for me until July!
Anyway it's a great forum and I look forward reading everyone's posts and contributing in a positive way.

JP

by **ranjo** » 05 17, 2014 • [Post 62]

Indian Summer wrote:
ranjo wrote:Hi, My name is Randy Meyer, from northwest Iowa. My main passion all my life has been muskie fishing and of course iowa whitetails.

Where does a guy from Iowa fish for muskies? Minnesota, Lake St Clair? I'm a muskie nut myself. Founded the Three Rivers chaper of Muskies Inc in Pittsburgh back in 96. CSR Bowhunter is "hooked" too. Look for my St Clair report when I get back from fishing the last week of June. Last year was insane. One day we boated 56 of 65 rips. yeah... we have a few things figured out. Anyway welcome to Elk City U.S.A man!

And same for all of our other new members. I thought things might slow down a little when the warm weather rolled in but I'm glad to see I was wrong. I like the "down to earth" description from Ericleep. Thanks.. we try.

I waited until Phantom was downwind of the fire ring to chuck a log on. bwaahaahaha

Sorry I missed this, Indian Summer, been in the muskie game since the early 80's, past president of the Upper Great Plains Chapter Muskies Inc, wore many different 'hats' for the club but am no longer involved. N'west Iowa has the Spirit Lake, Okoboji chain that have muskies, which is just on the Iowa side of the Iowa/Minnesota border. And yes I have fished all the great muskie lakes in Minnesota plus Lake of the Woods ( my favorite) where I spend as much prime time as I can. I am now part of the 'Operation Muskie' organization, have you heard of it? We take 20 veterans on an all expense paid 4 day guided muskie hunt, I have the privalege to guide our nations finest. So my muskie roots do run deep

. That St. Clair thing really intrigues me, just to doggone far for me, and beside that I started this elk hunting quest which is another addiction I didnt need lol Randy

by **Indian Summer** » 05 17, 2014 • [Post 63]

A fellow MI president! Small world. I founded the Three Rivers chapter in Pittsburgh in 96 along with 3 other guys. Wore every hat there is. No longer involved either. St Clair is insane. Well worth the trip if you ever have the time. Last year we had a 37 fish day, a 42 fish day, and our all time best... a 56 fish day. I was there and I can hardly believe it. A muskie every 15 minutes for 14 hours. A couple 50+ in there too. Cannot wait to go there next month.

Conrad8899... where at in Pa?

It's been awhile since I've been on here. So sorry if I slacked on the greetings. But it looks like all is well here and I'm really glad to see some new faces. We don't care one bit how much.... or how little experience you have. You might go on one elk hunt, come back and make a comment and a veteran elk hunter might say "hmm, never thought of that". We are all always learning. I think one of the things you will all find enjoyable about Elknut Forums is you won't find any self proclaimed know it alls who think their way is the only way. You build a teepee fire, I build council fires. They both make a great gathering place right? Right!

Welcome aboard guys and gals.

by **Swede** » 05 17, 2014 • [Post 64]

It is great to see so many new members interested in discussing elk hunting. Welcome all. You have come to a place where everyone talks elk, and are either planning the next hunt or are out hunting.

by **Indian Summer** » 05 17, 2014 • [Post 65]

Swede wrote:It is great to see so many new members interested in discussing elk hunting. Welcome all. You have come to a place where everyone talks elk, and are either planning the next hunt or are out hunting.

Or telling campfire lies about the last one! :roll:

by **8seconds** » 05 17, 2014 • [Post 66]

Hello everyone, i'm from East Central Oklahoma (Henryetta). I've been registered with the forum since 2012, but haven't really reached out and gotten involved. To many irons in the fire as they say. Retired back home where i grew up to care for an aging parent. Lived in Houston after graduate school and RVN; had my own business in development and construction and drifted to do a project on Barksdale AFB in Bossier City, LA prior to settlying back in Henryetta on an interim basis.

Over the years I (and a deceased brother) have hunted the Bitterroots and Clearwater areas of Idaho for elk; British Columbia (Moose and bear); Washington Cascades (elk); Alaska for bear and fished the top steelhead river on the planet, the Situk River in the Tongrass wilderness; all over Texas for deer/javelinas/turkey and wild feral hogs, geese and alligators (bow); old Mexico for deer; San Juan area around Durango for elk, bear hunted south CO and the Craig BLM area for mulies in Colorado; Blue Ridge mountain for deer and turkey; Dismal Swamp of Virginia for deer; and of recent years the San Pedro Wilderness in NM for elk; and of course Oklahoma for rabbit (cotton and swamp)/duck (thousands)/& deer. Life has been good in terms of being fortunate enough to be outdoors and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. I've been asked numerous times to visit Las Vegas; still haven't made it. My idea of a great time is to solo pack into a wilderness area and live out of my pack for a week or so. Glad to get in and glad to get out. I get as much out of the preparation as i do the hunt.

Hope this finds each of you enjoying our great country and what it offers to outdoorsmen. 8-)

by **Indian Summer** » 05 18, 2014 • [Post 67]

Very nice intro 8seconds. I also enjoy the preparation part of any trip. If that's the case you've come to the right place. It sounds like you have much to contribute here so don't hesitate to post. Glad to see you came out of the closet.

by **Conrad8899** » 05 18, 2014 • [Post 68]

Indian Summer. I live out side of Oil City....

by **Indian Summer** » 05 18, 2014 • [Post 69]

Conrad8899 wrote:Indian Summer. I live out side of Oil City....

Just did a job up there and one in Franklin last week. A couple the week before too. Up there all the time. Nice area. Small world.

by **Conrad8899** » 05 22, 2014 • [Post 70]

Ya its a small world. Next time give me a shout. May be I could bye U a drink....

by **Brendan** » 05 26, 2014 • [Post 71]

Figure I'd introduce too, been lurking for a couple years now.

Live in Boston, MA - primarily a whitetail hunter, but am trying yearly to get my Maine moose tag. Have the play book, calls, videos, and a whole bunch of books and am gradually getting myself prepared for a trip to Colorado.

I'm sure for however much I learn in advance, the first trip will be the real education!

by **2011bullyelk** » 05 27, 2014 • [Post 72]

Hi all, I am Jim and I have been a member for a few months, just haven't posted much. I live in Idaho and have yet to kill anything with a bow. I am hoping to get it done this year as I just bought a new-to-me carbon element. I love all the info and camaraderie here, I look forward to sharing photos and stories this fall!

by **nrocchio** » 05 27, 2014 • [Post 73]

Hey guys,
I'm Nick. I grew up in Florence, CO and started hunting as soon as I turned 12. I moved to California for school and ended up getting a job out there, so over the last 9 years I have only made it home for one hunting trip with my Dad. I moved back to Denver last year and have spent every chance I get outdoors fishing, camping and doing what I loved growing up here in CO. I have shot a bow since I was a kid, but this year will be my first archery Elk hunt. I have really been enjoying all of the great stories and tips I find here on the forum, and can't wait for September.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 05 27, 2014 • [Post 74]

Welcome to "the" elk forum gentlemen! Glad to have you on board. Please, pull up a log by the fire, a beverage of choice, and join in the conversation.

by **kyle1112** » 05 27, 2014 • [Post 75]

Hey fellow addicts, my names is Kyle, I live in Buckley Washington. Chasing big and small game is what I've done since I was 12, I've harvested lots of mule deer and lots of species of small game but have yet to harvest an elk. Since I switched to archery I have had quite the eye opening to how to be the ultimate predator, it's made me so much more thankful and grateful for the hunting woods and the game we case . Thanks for allowing to be part of this community.

by **beard collector** » 05 29, 2014 • [Post 76]

Hi, my name is Greg Vickery and I go by the name of (beard collector). This is my first post to this forum and I am looking forward to learning a lot of good information from you guys on bow hunting for elk on this forum. I live in Arkansas and I am a vivid turkey hunter and whitetail hunter. I do most of my whitetail hunting in Illinois. This is my 3 yr. applying for archery elk in Colorado. I finally was successful for the draw in Unit 20 this year. Any information on Unit 20 would be greatly appreciated, because I know that there is a lot of this unit that is private. I have made contact with an outfitter for this area. I am 60 years old and never harvested an elk. but I am excited to have the opportunity to share information with you guys on this forum. I will let you know how my hunt goes. Looking forward to getting back to Colorado this year. Just being able to hunt at 60 is a great blessing. Again thanks for all the great information you provide.

by **ElkNut1** » 05 29, 2014 • [Post 77]

Greg & Kyle, welcome guys! We look forward to hearing some of your stories from your upcoming adventures! (grin) Thanks for stopping by!

ElkNut1

by **Shawn Ryan** » 05 29, 2014 • [Post 78]

Hi, my name is Shawn and I'm an elkaholic. I've been an elkaholic since I was 13. Its been 249 days since my last elk hunt.

Seriously, though, I am 51, live in SW WA and have hunted elk on and off since I was 13. I've killed several with gun and bow. I mostly hunt Wilderness areas in WA and OR on solo backpack hunts. I typically spend about 18-20 days each September chasing elk, but have found elknut's knowledge about the difference in elk sounds to be unique.

I ride a desk during the day, but work hard to stay fit. I do some ultra running and obstacle racing, which I started as ways to stay fit for elk hunting. Talking about elk is a good distraction from everything else that isn't elk hunting.

by **luvelkhunt** » 06 01, 2014 • [Post 79]

Hello everyone, my name is Kelly and im addicted to elk!
I live in PA. and have been chasing deer, bear, turkey, and coyotes for most of my life. and just like I thought it would, elk hunting has ruined my life! ( not really) but it is all that I think about, and in some aspect controls at least one thing that I do on any given day. I still think that my bugling in the house is gonna turn my wife on one of these days! ha ha. The hoyt is the only choice for me in elk country. luv it!!!

by **BrentLaBere** » 06 02, 2014 • [Post 80]

Welcome to the forum guys.

by **pmiller45** » 06 07, 2014 • [Post 81]

Hey guys my name is Paul. I grew up hunting deer and turkey in Missouri. Always had dreams about hunting elk out west but as I got older sports always seemed to get in the way. Played basketball in college and have played overseas professionally the last 8 years. Last year because of some fortunate circumstances in my schedule I was able to join my father-in-law on a hunt in New Mexico. Needless to say I am a "nut" now. Hopefully I will have the chance to get a hunt or two in again this year if everything works out. Looking forward to learning as much as I can about elk.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 06 07, 2014 • [Post 82]

Welcome Paul. Glad to have you in the mix.

by **razorback** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 83]

I'm from Southeast Missouri, close to the Arkansas line. Grew up chasing WT and turkeys in the Mark Twain NF. I hunted unit 55 for a few days in 2009 but didn't prep. The mountains ate me up and only seen a few elk and tons of people. I did see two bears and they intrigued me. I decided to go to Canada and hunt one. Did that but the mountains kept calling. I had a knee replacement in Jan 2013, the last thing I asked the doc was will it be good enough to go up and down the mountains with a pack by Sep. He said yeah. I woke up and he said we had some complications. That was an understatement. I ended up having another one in Jan 2014 by one of the best surgeons in the country. Since then I've lost about 60lbs and have been working out everyday. I'm going to Colorado on 27 August. Our board at work has vacation dates listed as "27Aug-???"! Feels great. I have no experience and don't call that well but I read something every day. Work out every day, shoot my bow every week and I'm just basically consumed. Only problem is so is my bank account! Thanks for all the good reading.

by **ElkNut1** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 84]

Hey Razorback, great recent history bio, it can help us out with who you are & any challenges you may have, keep up the fiery attitude, it's an inspiration sir! You'll be hunting early season, don't be fooled & leave the calls at home, you will still need them at times!

ElkNut1

by **toasty tiger** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 85]

Hello Everyone,
I am a 40 year old father of two YOUNG kids and now have gotten old enough to actually go Elk Hunting. I will be going on my first Elk Hunt this year accompanying my dad who is not going to make many more trips. I only Archery Hunt. I will be setting spike camp away from them for a few days in the southwest San Juans during the third week of September.

Ok so this is where I am a little goofy. I grew up turkey hunting and started using a diaphragm when I was 9. I raised wild turkeys and learned from seperating them and listening to them. So I went on a Red Stag hunt last year and they were in the roar and if elk hunting is anything like that I am already hooked. I got in the middle of a group of hinds and was blown away by all the vocalizations. Needless to say I now have it on my mind to learn how to call an elk. I am addicted to calling animals with their language. The kill is just lagniappe. I have killed a lot of animals with just my camera and was just as happy as if I was in the record book. My challenge now is to find some elk that are pressured and get them to talk without running them to Idaho:).
By the way - this site is awesome.

by **razorback** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 86]

I can relate to the turkey hunting. I was blessed to start out turkey hunting at a very young age on some good private land. I learned their vocabulary, habits throught out the year (not just spring) and loved to call them in. My favorite thing about calling in birds is just interacting with them, ever year I offer to take people hunting and had rather watch someone else shoot than myself, especially someone new to the sport. I would dearly love to be able to vocalize with a bull and experience that for myself. Will Primos once told me it was like turkey hunting times 100. Good luck to you.

by **toasty tiger** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 87]

Thanks for the reply. I have heard the same thing. I took my 6 year old this year and got her between a mad hen and a gobler. They made every sound that can be made except for a kiki run. It was awesome. I am now trying to learn the elk language so I can do the same thing for her and my son who is 4 in about 12 years. It is a shame they dont make a shock call for an Elk - - - - Or maybe they do and that is the secret that everyone is holding on to.

by **toasty tiger** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 88]

Razorback -
Good luck to you on your hunt - Where there is a will there is a way. I know from experience that the best way to get over an injury is to fight it head on. I had surgery on my foot and was told that I would never walk normal again and have complications throughout my life from it - I chose not to let it hold me back - It took me a couple of years - a couple of triathlons- a couple of set backs but I continue to push and it continues to follow along. I have learned that once you get it healthy dont stop pushing it and it will go just fine. I dont know about you but the Rocky Mountains are therapy for my soul. Sometimes hunting becomes the icing on the cake and the real victory is looking down from a 12,000 foot peak and asking the world how you like me now! Elk are just a good excuse to go get some therapy:)

by **WapitiTalk1** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 89]

toasty tiger wrote: It is a shame they dont make a shock call for an Elk - - - - Or maybe they do and that is the secret that everyone is holding on to.

There is a shock call for elk.. It's called a nervous or popping grunt. Stops them on a dime

Welcome to "the" elk forum guys.

by **razorback** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 90]

toasty tiger

That's what I'm hoping for-hearing a bugle, talking to the bull and climbing some mountains. If that happens, it's a big victory for me! If the good lord should bless me with a bull then I'll take that too! I really feel blessed just to be going. This time last year I was barely walking and weighing about 280. I'm 212 now and feel like I can climb anything.

by **toasty tiger** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 91]

That is awesome. I know that this forum is about elk hunting and calling and etc.. but all hunting is about the willingness to not give up or give in. Perseverance is the one ingredient that can not be scripted, taught, trained or written. You got that going for you man - - - elk hunting is just an excuse to show it off. Good luck - May your pack be filled with meat - may your stomach be filled with food - and may all your hunts regardless of outcome- be spiritual in mind, challenging in nature, and soothing to your soul.

by **blackbruin** » 06 13, 2014 • [Post 92]

Dan from northcentral pa here,

Die hard hunter, love challenges, why I love hunting Wiley mountain bucks in laurel chocked ridges and bottoms. Shot my fair share of farm country deer, too easy! Taken a number of bear here too, never hunted out west, figure by the time I draw an elk tag in pa I'll be 80!! Colorado here I come! Started an apprenticeship with one of the best longrifle builders(flintlocks) love muzzleloaders, pretty much all I use anymore, besides my recurve. Just like the traditional way. Here's my hopeful elk smasher, a .66 beck smoothrifle.

378gr patched roundball and fff blackpowder, I can just imagine after the shot with the elk and blackpowder smell mingling ahhhh...
Got 5 kids and there old enough now momma won't throw a fit if I go for 3 weeks out west...

Hi and hope I fit in and learn a bunch!!

by **Rangerz** » 06 20, 2014 • [Post 93]

Hi all,

Just wanted to say hello. Buddy drew a Muzzleloader tag for NV and I am going along to help and learn. Been looking at a lot of the posts here. Lot of great info.

If he is lucky enough to get something I'll try and get some pics!

Good luck to all this year,

Chris

by **WapitiTalk1** » 06 20, 2014 • [Post 94]

Welcome to "the" elk forum Rangerz. Glad to have you on board! Looking forward to hearing about your hunt this fall.

by **dfwbowhunter** » 06 20, 2014 • [Post 95]

My name is Lyle, I'm from the Dallas area. I will be hunting my 3rd time this year in Colorado for elk with a bow. I was fortunate enough to draw a tag for units 69&84. I just found this forum about a month ago. I ordered the big package of calls and Elknuts video series. I got them in the mail yesterday and I have already watched them all!! I really enjoyed all of the information in them and I already feel like I have an edge this season. I can't wait to practice what I have learned. I am continuing my exercise routine and I have started shooting everyday.

by **ElkNut1** » 06 21, 2014 • [Post 96]

Chris & Lyle, welcome aboard guys, it's great to have you here, please feel comfortable to jump right in & participate in questions or responses! Thanks!

ElkNut1

by **wrkg4gd** » 06 21, 2014 • [Post 97]

Morning,all.
Originally from the north shore of MA (no. of Boston), I grew up fishing more than hunting. My hunting has largely been relegated to picking off lots of varmints during 6 years in the desert. I’m presently in Washington state, and we’ll be moving to the Kitsap area next week.

I’ve been a military chaplain for 17 years, splitting my time evenly between Navy and Marine Corps. Two of my military buddies convinced me that bowhunting was the addiction of choice. However, being deployed the last two hunting seasons, I haven’t been able to jump in. This year, I will be here in WA and hope to harvest some deer/elk.

In addition to deer and (W.Wash.) elk tags, I was blessed to win a 2nd Deer tag for 6020 (Dungeness-Miller Peninsula). My goal this year is to put some good meat in the freezer; don’t need to take any trophies. While I expect to be able to take a few days off here and there, I am looking both for mentoring and/or local advice that will help me make most efficient use out of the time I’ll have available. Not looking to steal anyone’s secret spot(s), but willing to listen -- and willing to do some legwork if someone is generous enough to offer to link up.

Last week, ElkNut's guide and dvd came in the mail. Looking forward to practicing my calling, doing some scouting, and getting over the learning curve as quickly as possible!

Best
mo

by **WapitiTalk1** » 06 21, 2014 • [Post 98]

Lyle, welcome aboard! Are you a Cowboys fan? That would make two of us "total" here

Emile, glad you stopped by. Always like to see another Evergreen State elk hunter jump on board.

A word of caution to both of you. Watch that Swede character that hangs out here very, very closely. He seems harmless enough, is a treestand elk hunting guru, but is often up to some type of elk camp shenanigans

.

by **dfwbowhunter** » 06 23, 2014 • [Post 99]

Definitely NOT a cowboys fan so I guess you are on your own there!! I'm a Green Bay Packers fan!

by **TheBuzz** » 06 23, 2014 • [Post 100]

Hello All, My nickname is Buzz....I have only hunted Elk twice, first was 1978 in the Bighorns of Wy. And the last was 1985 again in the Bighorns. Saw Elk, but no Kills from our group.

I have decided to try again, one of my bucket list items, planning a 2015 OTC pack in, Colorado, and as of today I have 4 PP for Wyoming, with the intentions of that trip in a few years.

Hunted whitetails here in Missouri, and have been shooting Archery since the late 70's...

Looking for a possibly partner(s) for future western hunt(s) ?

by **wapitloco** » 06 23, 2014 • [Post 101]

My name is Dale and I'm an elkaholic
Live in western Colorado near Montrose. I have been hunting elk since 91first with rifle and then about 6 years ago I started hunting with a bow. All of my elk hunting has been in units 66, 65 or 62. After 12 years I finally drew a unit 61archery tag! I can't wait till September!
I'm looking forward to getting to know you folks on here and hear your hunting stories while sitting around the campfire.

by **Swede** » 06 23, 2014 • [Post 102]

Welcome to the campfire guys. It is good to have you here and to have some new folks to share elk hunting thoughts with. There are a couple of practical jokers that you might want to keep your eyes out for. I will be polite and not name any names, but their initials are Phantom16 and Elknut1.

by **LongShot** » 06 23, 2014 • [Post 103]

Bruce from NM here. Addicted to hunting and fishing of any type, but chasing elk thru breathtaking (in multiple ways) mountains is pure heaven! I got hooked about a decade ago in Colorado, and I'm hunting elk until my legs fall off. I've read this forum for several months and finally joined because I'm convinced I'll like it here.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 06 23, 2014 • [Post 104]

Welcome to our elk camp longshot. Pull up a log by the fire, beverage of choice, and please chime in early and often. Great bunch of folks here. Take some of the regulars here with a grain of salt.... Indian Summer is part elk, Trophy Hill is a beach bum on occasion, Swede likes to spend an inordinate amount of time in the forest canopy, and Elknut1 speaks better "elk" than his birth language. Yah, a pretty good bunch

. Again, welcome.

by **Olydog09** » 06 25, 2014 • [Post 105]

kyle1112 wrote:Hey fellow addicts, my names is Kyle, I live in Buckley Washington. Chasing big and small game is what I've done since I was 12, I've harvested lots of mule deer and lots of species of small game but have yet to harvest an elk. Since I switched to archery I have had quite the eye opening to how to be the ultimate predator, it's made me so much more thankful and grateful for the hunting woods and the game we case . Thanks for allowing to be part of this community.

Welcome Kyle. Glad to see you here.

by **Olydog09** » 06 25, 2014 • [Post 106]

blackbruin wrote:Dan from northcentral pa here,

Die hard hunter, love challenges, why I love hunting Wiley mountain bucks in laurel chocked ridges and bottoms. Shot my fair share of farm country deer, too easy! Taken a number of bear here too, never hunted out west, figure by the time I draw an elk tag in pa I'll be 80!! Colorado here I come! Started an apprenticeship with one of the best longrifle builders(flintlocks) love muzzleloaders, pretty much all I use anymore, besides my recurve. Just like the traditional way. Here's my hopeful elk smasher, a .66 beck smoothrifle.

378gr patched roundball and fff blackpowder, I can just imagine after the shot with the elk and blackpowder smell mingling ahhhh...
Got 5 kids and there old enough now momma won't throw a fit if I go for 3 weeks out west...

Hi and hope I fit in and learn a bunch!!

That is a sweet piece Dam. Welcome.