GMU 54?

[LaBoeuf]

I will be returning to Colorado from oversees just in time for one last hunt before I move out of state. I am attempting Elk for the first time, and I'm thinking GMU 54. Any advice on this unit or a better area I can get OTC would be much appreciated.

[Trophyhill]

54-55 is on my hit list. First I have some unfinished business in a couple other draw units. I hear good things about 54-55

[Relentlessly Unforgiving]

I've hunted the neighboring GMU53 the last few years. It might be the most beautiful county I've seen. Plenty of good opportunities every year. It's not crowded due to it being in the wilderness.

[ferris bugler]

If you're planning on hunting archery you will need a limited tag. If you are hunting rifle season you're good to go.

[LaBoeuf]

If you're planning on hunting archery you will need a limited tag. If you are hunting rifle season you're good to go.

I will be hunting rifle season this time.

[SoCo Mark]

I camp at a pretty popular trailhead in 54 every year during first rifle.
There are always lots of people. However, few if any repeat hunters year to year. I did run into one group of 2 hunters about 3 years in a row. They always seemed to have their cows down and were gone by Monday. The rest of the success was sporadic at best.
I know quite a few hunters that I run into were hunting because they picked up a leftover cow tag and just thought what the heck. In years past you could get leftover cow tags for first rifle practically right up to opening day. I'm not sure if that is the case any more or not.
Not surprising, but most of those that just bought a tag and thought they'd give it a go got pretty disillusioned pretty quick. The wilderness area is not a place to put a hunt together spur of the moment, IMO.
There is elk in 54, and there is lots of country. I usually hunt about an hour, to 2 hours walking distance from the trailhead. The furthest I shot an elk there was 2.4 miles as the crow flies to my rig, according to my GPS. I read where guys want to pack in 5 miles and start there. Honestly I don't have what it takes to do that any more, if I ever did in the first place. 2.4 was a nice pack out. Doubling that distance- not sure I'd care to do that.

[LaBoeuf]

Has anyone driven up to BSP? I am thinking about setting up base camp there then heading East I just don't know about vehicle access.

[ST52V]

You mean big soap park? Jeep hill can be a b---h . I would have chains for all 4 or use a quad or side by side.

[LaBoeuf]

I guess I will be pulling the chains out of the basement.

[ferris bugler]

There is great hunting in 54. Call the DOW office in Gunnison. They will point you in the right direction. Ohio Creek has lots of private property but there is access. Sounds like you are looking at the south side of the unit. Haven't ever hunted down there. but have heard good things.