Stillhunting the Timber?

[treestanding]

Does anybody else like to still hunt the timber?

Where I hunt in central Co. there are some old logging roads in the timber that make great trails for still hunting. I love this method of hunting, but after 2 years, it hasn't produced much. I hunt the opening week of the bow season, so last years wet weather made for great conditions. There are some nice hill sides that I hunt in the mornings between the medows in the valley and the thicker bedding areas up above. Sometimes I will get to an area that opens up a little and I will stop and glass it for a while, but for the most part I will be able to see about 75 yards through the trees. I will throw out an occasional cow call every now and then.

Does anybody have any tips or advise that they would like to share about still hunting?

[Trophyhill]

This is an area I have struggled. I seem to be able to get in amongst the herd like this (unknowingly I might add) but get seen first. That has been my dilemma when playing the part of "elk timber rat". Subscribed!

[otcWill]

IMHO this works best when you KNOW where the elk are; not so much when you're looking for them. How many animals to you see? What happens that prevents you from getting a shot? Is it movement? Scent? Figure out what you're doing wrong and eliminate those. The obvious would be to check the wind constantly and go slower. I myself never still hunt mostly because I have the elk figured out where I hunt. I go to where I know they are and then sneak in or set up to call em. If you havn't gotten to this stage in your area then I'd simply go slower and sit for at least 10 minutes every 50-100 yards once you're into a likely area. Also I'd reccommend not calling at all while still hunting. Still hunting is surely a better tactic for gun hunters then bowhunters as most elk are slightly busted while hunting this way and can still be killed with a gun. Answer a few of these questions and I may be able to be of more help. Also, I'll point out that this is mostly a group of elk calling junkies, myself included, and you might find better advice for silent tactics somewhere else.

[idahoghost]

You may want to checkout Swede's book on treestand hunting. Same principles wound apply. Available from Elknut.

[Swede]

I have tried what you are describing in Oregon's late cow hunt. My success at it has been the same as yours. A variation of that tactic, I have observed that is popular in Oregon involves one pickup truck, two lawn chairs in the back with cup holders, and two guys in camouflage trying to get their elk on a drive by shooting. I don't think it works very well either, but these stealth hunters don't tire out too bad.

[Indian Summer]

The best thing I can tell a hunter about still hunting is this: Move your eyes more than your hands and feet. ALWAYs always lead the way with your binoculars. It sounds like 8 power would be good where you hunt. Look far ahead through every little gap between the trees and brush. One eyeball peeking your way can ruin everything... but your one eyeball looking ahead can change that. So take your time and make sure you really scan the area ahead before taking another step. Pick out a tree or something ahead of you and make that your goal to get to before stopping and doing it again. Still hunting is a game of patience and discipline. Seeing elk before they see you is priceless. Sneaking on a bedded bull is a great accomplishment. Where I hunt spikes aren't legal. On several occasions I've spotted bedded spikes and took the time to sneak in on them. It's nice because there's nothing to lose so no pressure and it's good practice. I've shot a few bulls right in their beds with a gun at close range. One time two bulls bedded facing opposite directions watching each other's backs never saw me until it was too late for one of them. Those are no doubt special kills and something I'm pretty proud of.

And remember... elk make noise so if you happen to snap a twig or whatever don't worry about it. Stop for a bit, scan and move on.

[WapitiTalk1]

Do they have stills in the timber there? I thought that was a Deep South thing...... Sorry, couldn't resist