Scouting! Who, What and Where?

[Elkonthebrain]

A buddy and I plan on hunting a new area this year. We've been talking back and forth about what to look for on maps, who to call and what to ask. So I thought it would be a good topic to bring up and get the professionals opinion.

What course of action do you take before putting boots on the ground?

When studying maps what are you looking for on the map that lets you know elk might live there? When calling a biologist what questions do you ask? Do you call the game warden? Anything else I might be missing please let me know.

[Elkonthebrain]

Thought this was a good read about scouting with maps and satellite imagery.

http://soleadventure.com/2013/03/using- ... -look-for/

[Indian Summer]

There is nothing on any map that will show you whether or not elk are in the area. If they are there you can surely spot the places they are likely to spend time and plan hunting routes.

I'd call a meat processor or taxidermist before a game warden. Tell them you would love to use their services but have no experience and could use a little help.

Before I put boots on the ground I stare at topos and Google Earth for months. Sometimes my pre plan pans out and sometimes it doesn't. You never know until you have hands on experience. On the bright side if the area doesn't turn out to be so good you might be able to move just a couple miles and be into good hunting. Often that's all it takes. That's why it's important to stay mobile (no pack in camp) until you know for sure the area is worth it.

[Elkonthebrain]

I was thinking more of if they are in the area what features on the map would indicate where they eat, sleep and travel routes.

I get that sometimes you strike out. I just want to know when I'm putting boots on the ground, it's in the area the elk would possibly occupy. I do not want to just aimlessly wonder.

I'll be making a call to the taxidermist and meat processor. Thank you.

[WapitiTalk1]

I sure like the avatar picture you've got there mister. Somehow, I feel like I've been there before

[Elkonthebrain]

Yes sir. We might have got an answer or two during that picture.

[Indian Summer]

There are general principles you can go by. Sun on the south slopes means food. North slopes timber and thicker with less food. That doesn't mean they will be there though but maybe bedded nearby as in over the top and then they may move to the feed slopes from there. Also I like high benches. Any places up high where there is a little more space between the contour lines than the surrounding area. They can be subtle. One thing I'll do for a quick look is try to plan a route that hits all of the highest water sources. Near or above the springs are where you can find wallows too. Elk can be at any elevation but there are always a few that like to bed up high. A breeze means less bugs and they can see hear and smell pretty good from up there.

[Swede]

A lot of scouting is dependent on where, when and how you are hunting. The tree stand hunter is not looking for the same thing as a spot and stalk hunter, or a caller. The fellow that is hunting western Washington is not looking at the same things as a hunter looking at the Ochocos in central Oregon. There can be differences between early archery season and the later rut. Before I called anyone, I would have those things determined. I like to ask about specific areas and times. As Joe suggested, look over G.E. and some good topo maps of your area. Also look at the State game department statistics for your area and check the success rate. Try to have several areas to start with, but let the person you are talking to know you are open to suggestions on other spots. Let anyone you talk to know if you are trailer camping or back pack hunting. The more information you give, the better the feedback.

[Elkonthebrain]

Thanks guys. We've been checking out success rates. I'm just not sure how much to rely on those numbers because I know some people lie and some don't report. I'm sure they're close though. Will definitely make a route hitting all the highest water sources. Thanks again.