100% Chance

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 10, 2016 • [Post 1]

I'm getting in better shape, shooting better with the recurve and getting the plan together, plus working on my calling. Got some game changer tips off the Elknut forum. I feel my chance to kill an elk is pushing 100% and if I do commit to a two state trip then my chance would go up to around 150%. Not going to be to choicy on elk #1 but the second is going to have to be bigger than what I've killed already.

That is my level of confidence!! What would yours be?

by **Indian Summer** » 07 10, 2016 • [Post 2]

yawn

by **Bow4me** » 07 11, 2016 • [Post 3]

I like your confidence and I hope it works for you but there are a lot of variables that can B-slap your confidence to its knees.

by **Swede** » 07 11, 2016 • [Post 4]

All things considered, including my dogged determination and persistence, I believe I have about a 75% chance. I am leaving in a few minutes to go scout a new area. Hunting an unknown area takes away from my chances. Sheer orneriness, willingness to shoot a cow, and proven tactics brings me above the average 10%. I am just hoping I am right and not exaggerated.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 12, 2016 • [Post 5]

Swede... what would you guess your % was the first 3-5 years and if you were not willing to shoot a cow? 10 years? Anyone else?

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 12, 2016 • [Post 6]

I'm not willing to shoot a cow, but I can't be sure I can refrain from doing so if the moment presents itself. I don't have quiet the refrainability with the recurve. If I use a compound then 2 bulls will likely die, but if none do it will still be fun. It is hard not to be confident especially when I see so many accomplished elk hunters have difficulty on turkeys...I kill turkey at will.

Anyway, not sure how this got on campfire?? I was aiming for the elk category!

by **Bow4me** » 07 12, 2016 • [Post 7]

I hunt both on public land and elk hunting is more difficult for me. I think mainly because of the terrain and attitude difference from Arkansas but there are also other variables you can't control. Like weather. A few years ago it snowed 42" in my unit the week before the hunt. And one year I packed in 10 miles and there was a hunter behind every tree. When you're on a 5 day hunt those things can be catastrophic.
I'm probably less than 20% on elk but I can guarantee you I'm a 100% on lessons. There has not been one single year that I've been elk hunting that I haven't learned what not to do next year.

by **js80138** » 07 12, 2016 • [Post 8]

Bow4me wrote: There has not been one single year that I've been elk hunting that I haven't learned what not to do next year.

Amen.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 13, 2016 • [Post 9]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote:I'm not willing to shoot a cow, but I can't be sure I can refrain from doing so if the moment presents itself. I don't have quiet the refrainability with the recurve. If I use a compound then 2 bulls will likely die, but if none do it will still be fun. It is hard not to be confident especially when I see so many accomplished elk hunters have difficulty on turkeys...I kill turkey at will.

Anyway, not sure how this got on campfire?? I was aiming for the elk category!

Dude really. An accomplished elk hunter can kill a turkey no problem as can deer hunters, rabbit hunters etc. We don't have to worry about scent or being too aggressive then having to make a major relocation if it doesn't pan out. Just roll over the next ridge and it's on again. I killed so many of those things I got bored with it and quit turkey hunting. With turkeys it's mostly about the spot. In the right spot Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder would limit out. You must have really struggled trying to figure out how to kill them if you think it's so difficult and such an accomplishment. Yes, no?

If I use a compound 2 bulls will likely die... in an area where you have never been...... on your 2nd elk hunt ever. :lol:

And by the way... the Elk Hunting forum is for tactics, strategies, calling etc etc. The Virtual Campfire forum is for general discussion. Topics that don't really teach or help other members how to be more successful. A statement that says I know for sure I am going to kill elk does not meet that criteria.

by **Bow4me** » 07 13, 2016 • [Post 10]

There's probably not one elk hunter that didn't imagine their self killing a huge bull on the first hunt but the more I've hunted elk the more I've become an opportunity hunter. I don't go in with the intention of shooting a cow but on day 3 of a 5 day hunt if a cow comes out in a good flat spot that is easy to get to I'm eating elk. I've learned to go in with a plan but always be ready to change it and roll with the opportunity when it presents itself.

by **twinkieman** » 07 13, 2016 • [Post 11]

Indian Summer wrote:In the right spot Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder would limit out.

I have proof of that, one guy I know calls like s**t, but kills longbeards from the same tree every season. :lol:

He has yet to kill an elk with his bow

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 13, 2016 • [Post 12]

I'm talking about turkey hunting not turkey killing...it's a grind and you have to embrace it...much the same as elk hunting. The mountain is most of the battle. If elk lived where turkey do elk would be easier. I guess that has been proven since elk couldn't survive where turkey thrive and had to flee to the mountains....there, there a formidable opponent. I'm glad they did. The mountains are calling and so are the elk. 50 more days!!!

by **Indian Summer** » 07 14, 2016 • [Post 13]

Here in Pa turkeys do live in the mountains and they are just as dumb. In western Washington the elk live among farms & houses and they are just as tough to hunt.

Ya see they have big ears, large noses, and a bunch of sentry cows for an insurance policy. It's a cake walk to let a hen walk by but a cow elk can mean the end of that opportunity. One time I was laying on the ground with a shotgun barrel poking around the side of a round bale of hay. (this is good) All the birds were out in the middle of a stubble corn field. It was just a matter of time. Unknown to me there was a hen walking along the row of round bales. She literally stepped right over my gun barrel. As her second foot cleared the gun I pulled the trigger and dumped a big tom. That was in Nebraska. I think she landed somewhere in Iowa. :lol:

Over there it's a joke. I've guided total rookies to 4 mature toms before noon. I have never killed 4 herd bulls in a single day.... or even raghorns. At lunch the guides would roll in and pile the turkeys on the shop floor. Dozens of them. The year I was there we killed 380 of them. I'm pretty sure in over a decade of elk outfitting we did not total 380 bulls.

Why don't you conduct a poll to see what the majority thinks is harder to hunt? :roll:

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 14, 2016 • [Post 14]

"Talks cheap". That is what one of my football coach's use to say. Everyone will just have to wait to see what happens. The one thing I do know is there is 20+% success in one of the areas I am looking. When you take in account that archery turkey hunters in Alabama operate at less than 1%, yet I parlay those odds into 5 arrowed turkey for the last 25 years...that is 500% success in a sub 1% area...I wouldn't count me out...second time out or not, I wouldn't bet against me. 54 more days.

by **twinkieman** » 07 14, 2016 • [Post 15]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote:I'm talking about turkey hunting not turkey killing

So just to make sure I got this straight, a bull walks by you, or you accidently bump into one that gives you a shot, you're going to pass?.... That would be elk killing, not elk hunting :lol:

by **Bow4me** » 07 14, 2016 • [Post 16]

I'm definitely way higher percentage on turkeys. And as far as killing turkeys goes I'm only killing turkeys if they are gobbling. I'm not sitting in a blind for 12 hours waiting for a bird to walk by. It's all about the calling and the chase for me and I think a lot of turkey hunters are that way. This probably drives the percentages down a little. But elk on the other hand you better take what you can get because that tag soup gets old quick.

by **wawhitey** » 07 14, 2016 • [Post 17]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote:"Talks cheap". That is what one of my football coach's use to say. Everyone will just have to wait to see what happens. The one thing I do know is there is 20+% success in one of the areas I am looking. When you take in account that archery turkey hunters in Alabama operate at less than 1%, yet I parlay those odds into 5 arrowed turkey for the last 25 years...that is 500% success in a sub 1% area...I wouldn't count me out...second time out or not, I wouldn't bet against me. 54 more days.

Something something, apples oranges

by **Indian Summer** » 07 15, 2016 • [Post 18]

500%? And you're only 100% on elk. Well that's good enough for me. So we can safely conclude that turkeys are the most difficult animal to hunt and elk are the easiest. I guess that settles that.

So... with that I challenge you to shoot nothing but a 6 point or better bull. Why kill anything smaller when you can actually hunt for one worth putting on the wall since it's pretty much guaranteed?

by **nrocchio** » 07 15, 2016 • [Post 19]

I hope you're right, and that you have a 100% chance. I have no clue what my chances are. I started hunting elk when I was 12 years old, and they are elusive. I will be heading out for my 3rd year of Archery hunting (I'm still a rookie with the bow). I know there are elk where I hunt, and I will probably see them again. I have no clue If I will be able to get close enough, or have an elk present a shot if I am within shooting distance. I am learning a lot of things have to go right to fill an archery elk tag.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 15, 2016 • [Post 20]

nrocchio wrote:I hope you're right, and that you have a 100% chance. I have no clue what my chances are. I started hunting elk when I was 12 years old, and they are elusive. I will be heading out for my 3rd year of Archery hunting (I'm still a rookie with the bow). I know there are elk where I hunt, and I will probably see them again. I have no clue If I will be able to get close enough, or have an elk present a shot if I am within shooting distance. I am learning a lot of things have to go right to fill an archery elk tag.

Now that sounds like a hunter with his mind open and his mouth shut. We are all always learning. Well not everyone I guess. A really good friend's dad who was a school teacher told me that line and I never forgot it. Another one that we've all heard is the only things for certain are death and taxes. But hey.... death, taxes, and bull elk sounds good to me!

Started when you were 12 huh. How old are you now?

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 21]

I started hunting when I was 4 so I been hunting for 50 year...half a century. Started bowhunting at the age of 17 and been a fulltime bowhunter since the age of 20. My goal was to be the best bowhunter in the world. Not sure I accomplished that goal but it has helped to at east try. I'm not scared have high expectations and it is still a challenging to me to kill as many animals that I do. It really helps hunting some of the wariest animals on the face of the earth here at home and makes elsewhere in seem easy at times. Elk were not exactly easy, but being seasoned by hunting tough game helped make them a lot easier than if I only hunted areas where animals are less wary.

by **Backyard** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 22]

Geez dude, give it up.
Just go hunt. And have fun while you're at it.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 23]

I have fun hunting, but I have more fun when locked in and hunting at a high enough level where I am getting lots of opportunity. I'm not at the level elk hunting to pass a lot of lesser animals. That is the level I am trying to get to and might already be there but unjust don't know it yet. Maybe on my second elk I can hold out for Mr Big. 53 days and counting. Looks like I am going to have to play with pain this year as I have a case of Plantar fiticulitus in my right foot so training had to be put on hole. It takes me about 5 days to get into mountain shape so not a big deal.

by **Lefty** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 24]

Indian Summer wrote:Swede... what would you guess your % was the first 3-5 years and if you were not willing to shoot a cow? 10 years? Anyone else?

I think my situation was unique the first 4 years. I did kill a cow the forth year my last day hunting of that season . I had lots of cow and small bull opportunities but passed passed and passed some more because I was wanting a big bull.
For me if I know Ill have game in the freezer Im looking for a big bull,.. I like to hunt, so I pass when other wouldn't. I think I passed that on to my daughter. Last fall she waited for a big 6x6 to give her a shot,.. with 5 other bulls, 15-35 yards away.
My expectations have changed after changing areas to hunt. But I think I have over a 50% chance the next three years to kill a mature bull (6-8 days of hunting per year)

by **Brendan** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 25]

Backyard wrote:Geez dude, give it up.
Just go hunt. And have fun while you're at it.

This.

by **Bow4me** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 26]

On my first elk hunt I had a rag horn and 2 cows in bow range within a hour of being in the woods. I can remember thinking this is going to be easy I'll wait for TV bull. I didn't see another elk the rest of the week. And the next 2 trips I couldn't get an elk within bow range. Finally the 4th trip with a rifle in my hand I got my first bull. Nothing big but but for sure a prize in my mind after all it took to get it.

by **Swede** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 27]

I guess I let this thread slip and was not checking it as I should.
Indian Summer: My first years back in the 1960s and early 1970s were about 40% success. By hunting hard I got three bull elk. I also got one cow with a cow tag. All were rifle hunts.
My first archery tree stand years provided 3 bulls, including one spike, and 6 cows. For awhile I was at 90% including spikes and cows. Right now I am about 50/50% bull/cows. My success over the last few years has dropped down and the amount of days it takes per kill has gotten longer.
Here is my take on the 100% thing. If anyone guaranteed me a 100% kill on a big bull public land hunt, I would want it in writing with a money back guarantee. I would check the fine print with a magnifying glass, and maybe an attorney. I would know you were a gambler, and I was paying for at least three hunts in one to cover that guarantee. In reality there are no 100% public land hunts even with the quality set aside areas. I don't care how good we think we are. There is still a strong element of luck that we don't control.
After my latest scouting trip, I am lowering me perceived chances at "an elk" to about 60%. I am an eternal optimist, and that is still very good, but it means I will not pass on any good cow.

by **Bow4me** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 28]

60% is still pretty good odds. I don't know but I'm guessing you live in elk country or close by. That's another variable non-residents don't account for. I live at 400' of elevation and elk hunt at 11000' and I have a 1000 mile drive with a short vacation to sneak in a 5 day hunt. There's nothing you can do to prepare for that that I know of. I know I'm kinda babbling but I'm trying to say that there is NO 100% hunt.

by **Swede** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 29]

Good point Bow4me. I lived and worked Forest Service in elk country for years. I get 30 days to hunt. Still my estimate is 60%. I would say my success has been over 60% since I started tree stand hunting, but there are changes happening that make certainty very sketchy.

by **twinkieman** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 30]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote:My goal was to be the best bowhunter in the world. Not sure I accomplished that goal but it has helped to at east try.

by **twinkieman** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 31]

I think that statement says it all :lol:

by **Stick** » 07 16, 2016 • [Post 32]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote: It takes me about 5 days to get into mountain shape so not a big deal.

This thread has become hilarious! That quote right there (among others) should let you know this dude is yanking our chain! Ain't nobody 54 years old and that stupid! Elk forum troll! But it is entertaining to say the least! Only way this could be real is somebody down south done found some high powered mushrooms! :lol:

Turkeys can be formidable on a rainy, overcast, and 60 mph wind day! Outside of that if you can't kill your limit of turkeys nowadays your either deaf or your legs are broke.

hunted them all over the US. Alabama, Georgia, to Missouri, Kansas and everywhere in between! Those beautiful red, white, and blue headed birds can't come close to old Mister Elk!

As for the 5 day business. Try that sir and your success rate will be about .000000001% :roll:

What a guy!

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 17, 2016 • [Post 33]

Not trolling.. just being honest!!! I'm sure there are some situations on private ground where both elk and turkey might seem easy. That is not what I am eluding to. If an attempt is made to keep them apples to apples than a turkey hunt in national forest in Alabama...with a bow would be very difficult for the experienced and next to impossible for one with limited experience. Don't get me wrong. I am not saying turkey are overall more difficult than elk. I am just saying when one hunts them the way that I do, it better prepares them to kill elk. That is the reason I use turkey tactics for elk and the transition was so easy for me...the turkey had me in the correct frame of mind. That is where the confidence comes...I can normally kill turkey at a pace few can match even with a gun and I use a bow. We both use the same type tactics.

As far as getting into mountain shape in 5 days, I am not in terrable shape now so a few days chimbing and a rest and recoup day in there has me feeling much better acclimated. My heel problem is definitely set me back, but I want it to get better before resuming the 5 mile walks with a pack. I keep agrivating it at work...I work two jobs and both can be physical.

Once again...not trolling...just confident my turkey skills will transition to elk. You will soon see. I will do an article on turkey training for elk and use this seasons success pics in the story. Got me one of those clip shots for pics in my pack.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 17, 2016 • [Post 34]

" It really helps hunting some of the wariest animals on the face of the earth here at home"

There are bongo in Alabama?

I can almost hear the crowd chanting "Jerry Jerry Jerry!" Better be careful Steve or some 400 pound half dressed woman/man is gonna come out from behind stage and beat you up man. :lol:

by **WapitiTalk1** » 07 17, 2016 • [Post 35]

OK, I'll say it.. Turkeys are not elk, they're birds. Although being able to master bird sounds with a reed may transfer somewhat into using a reed for elk, the two critters are not in the same ballpark (tactics, terrain, language interpretation).... honestly, they're not even in the same sport. I applaud your enthusiasm and confidence TBM, but I'd like you to chime back in after say, 10+ years of elk hunting and let us know how bird tactics translated successfully into elk hunting.

by **Swede** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 36]

Well one thing I found out is that turkey hunting and elk hunting have one thing in common. It is real easy to return home from a hunt empty handed. I have only tried turkey hunting a few days. Just like elk they were out of range, on private land, or behind cover. Stupid birds. lol

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 37]

In 10 years I should have 14 elk under my belt and a lot less doubters... there will be a few stubborn ons left but most will be asking my secrets(-: Two points you can't argue...1).having never elk hunted in my life, I could relate to everything Big Dan said in his interview on Bowsite because of the turkey experience. 2). I didn't have to ask anyone how to make a sound on a diaphragm call. For me it was simple as carving an elephant...I just cut away everything that didn't look like an elephant...I just made elk sounds with it...zero learning curve.

Like I said before...I might be the best elk hunter to never killed an elk. With one elk under my belt, I have filled in what little I didn't know already. 51 more days and you will see!!

by **Indian Summer** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 38]

I tried not to post this. I saved it from your Bowsite days hence the name of the file.

by **Elkhunttoo** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 39]

How many days will you have to elk hunt this year TBM?

by **Mathewsz7-elkridge** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 40]

Why weren't you successfull last year?

by **Lefty** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 41]

I was just considering archery. Wow I use to see a lot of big bulls before the fires

I started thinking back . My first rifle bull was in Montana, 2nd day of our hunt. I did spend the rest of the week looking for a deer
Two years of east side of Washington. total of 5 days no elk.
Washington West side, 3 day nothing
Montana another year,. 5 hunting days, no elk.
Utah cow tag,filled the tag at the end end of the first day
Idaho rifle trophy draw, huge bull( 900-925 lb est. live weight.) 10 AM

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 42]

I am going to hunt to I get homesick. Didn't go out last year. Took 7 days to get it done after finding the elk. Some said I went to early so going later this year.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 43]

The 7 days was year before last. Good one Indian Summer. I might check out the spot near where u sent me again. There were elk there but just quiet when I was there.

by **Swede** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 44]

Turkey: I still remember Bill Johnson the 1984 Olympic downhill ski champion. He was just a tad bit brash and told the best of the European skiers they could fight it out for second place. First place was his. No American had won that race in many Olympics, but he did.
He struck gold that year. Go get two big bulls for us.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 45]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote:The 7 days was year before last. Good one Indian Summer. I might check out the spot near where u sent me again. There were elk there but just quiet when I was there.

Correct me if I'm wrong but you never actually found the area I mentioned to you. I could find it on the map for you myself at the time. I just named the general area.

by **Elkhunttoo** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 46]

If you have enough time, 2 bulls isn't out of the question.... To me a lot of it comes down to time in the woods. yes, there are those that are better hunters then others, and some people are just dang lucky. I usually have neither time or luck

. I also have the problem that I want mr big and I have no problem watching an animal walk. At the end of the year I look at the experiences and memories way more then my % killed

by **wawhitey** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 47]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote:In 10 years I should have 14 elk under my belt and a lot less doubters... there will be a few stubborn ons left but most will be asking my secrets(-: Two points you can't argue...1).having never elk hunted in my life, I could relate to everything Big Dan said in his interview on Bowsite because of the turkey experience. 2). I didn't have to ask anyone how to make a sound on a diaphragm call. For me it was simple as carving an elephant...I just cut away everything that didn't look like an elephant...I just made elk sounds with it...zero learning curve.

Like I said before...I might be the best elk hunter to never killed an elk. With one elk under my belt, I have filled in what little I didn't know already. 51 more days and you will see!!

by **Bow4me** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 48]

If you kill 14 Bulls in 10 years you will be ready to start hunting on the outside of the fence!

by **twinkieman** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 49]

Nothing like having a self proclaimed messiah on WT!!!! :lol:

TBM, you could post pictures of you walking on water, and I wouldn't buy it. Easy enough to do amazing things with photos these days.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 18, 2016 • [Post 50]

You're right Indian Summer. I never found the spot and might not have been within 20 miles of it but I did find elk while looking for it. Never heard a bugle there but saw a fair bull and some cows and quiet a bit of human sign. Still, That got me started. When I switched to an area where I felt had fewer hunters, that is when I heard my first bugle. Hearing that bugle fueled my tank. I have confidence I can find places where other hunters don't go and get hat is where the elk congregate and where I converge on them. I can't wait to try my new secret on them.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 51]

Zero learning curve huh? So.... you didn't know anymore after your one hunt than you did before it. That I can believe.

I punched 13 elk tags in a row in the Bitterroot. Two were cows one with a bow and one with a rifle. One elk I killed in the first 3 hours of archery season and several were killed within the last days of rifle season. And you know what? I learned something every day of every season and I know that when I get to elk country this year I am going to learn a few more "new secrets".

Learning from experience and from the experiences of others is a never ending process. You should give it a try sometime.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 52]

Lot of flat swampy ground in one area ans every one seemed to drive past. Wonder if elk were in there hiding in the thickets. Looked more like bear and moose habitat but pressure in the surrounding hills might have pushed some elk down in there.

by **nrocchio** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 53]

Indian Summer wrote:Started when you were 12 huh. How old are you now?

I'm 32 now. I haven't hunted every year since my first hunt at 12, so I can't really say that I have 20 years under my belt... 0 Turkey hunting experience though. Maybe that's why I haven't arrowed an elk yet.

by **Charina** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 54]

This thread has been entertaining to say the least.

TBM, I've heard of shooting for the stars hoping to at least hit the moon. But you are taking it to a whole new level. Aiming for the furthest galaxy possible in all likelihood will make you overlook the targets that can be achieved. Are you the best there ever has been? Perhaps. Your comment previously about how critical setup is says you know something that takes many a long time to figure out. But to think you have everything figured out just may be your downfall. The problem is that a cup that is already full has no capacity to receive new knowledge. Most of what is poured on top sloughs off over the side before becoming part of the mix.

Why are you so incredibly intent on convincing others of not only your optimism, but of actual probability. If you are truly that self-confident, it doesn't make much sense within the normal parameters of human behavior. Your attempts to convince are contrary to your assertions.

Indian Summer/Joe: Why are you so intent on proving someone wrong who is so resistant to learning from the advice of others? Nothing will change anything other than experience, who why waste hot air?

Maturity begins when we're content to feel we're right about something without feeling the necessity to prove someone else wrong. Sydney J. Harris
And I would add the converse is true. Maturity begins when were content to feel we're right about something without feeling the necessity to prove to others we are right!

by **Swede** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 55]

This thread has been interesting for sure. I really hope Turkey is successful. If he is, he will be dining on elk steaks and crowing. 8-)

If not, he will be just eating crow. :cry:

I would like to see some pictures and read the story behind the adventure. Turkey will have a good story either way, and I am positive he will learn some things too.

by **twinkieman** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 56]

TurkeyBowMaster wrote: Got me one of those clip shots for pics in my pack.

Definitely the most beneficial words you have written in any posting thus far.

by **JKaboom** » 07 19, 2016 • [Post 57]

Ummmmmm.....

by **Indian Summer** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 58]

Charina... No need to prove anyone wrong especially when it's obvious. In this case stating the obvious might appear to be proving things wrong. That's not a goal. I have no goal on this thread. I'm just here for the laughs. It's entertaining after all of the politics and violence elsewhere. I enjoy sarcastic humor too and really like observing different types of human behavior and he sure is an interesting specimen. And don't kid yourself TBM loves my reciprocation or feedback from anyone. In reality he doesn't actually believe all of the things he says. To a degree he's here for the laughs too so he sets himself up on purpose. For those who have never been on a TBM thread don't worry he can take it. He actually enjoys it. Right Steve?

If at times I seem a bit harsh it's because I've seen where things can go when he was removed from Bowsite twice. But I think I sent the message that if we all want to stay here things will not go in that direction here on Wapiti Talk.

by **ElkNut1** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 59]

Joe, very well stated! You hit the nail on the head. TBM isn't fooling anyone! (grin)

ElkNut1

by **Swede** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 60]

Indian Summer wrote:I'm just here for the laughs. It's entertaining after all of the politics and violence elsewhere. I enjoy sarcastic humor too

As I said at the time, I trust Joe's judgment as demonstrated when he took down Turkey's thread, but the scolding that was given was harsh. That too is necessary at times to maintain good order, and to keep the forum as a place where all of us feel welcome. I am pleased Joe's thread is gone as promised. Considering that scolding and what is being written here, it is hard for me, a person on the outside to see some of what Joe has written as "humor".
Of coarse anyone that has hunted elk for more that a day or two, knows Turkey is full of hot air. If Turkey comes back with pictures of the big bulls he kills, just call around to the high fence outfitters and you will find out where Turkey got his elk. Let us know and we can book our own hunt there if we are impressed.
Joe, be careful not to cross the line on these things. As a moderator you need to show more professionalism than anyone else. As one of the sheriff's deputies, be careful that you don't jump into your patrol car after spending a night out with the boys. Those of us bystanders around the campfire just never know what role you are filling, especially when you are addressing a person you just ticketed.
I hate it when I read things on Bowsite that are intended assassinate Elknut's character. He has several jerks that just can't leave him alone. It is cheap and personal. It is inappropriate.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 61]

Just curious Swede.... do you mean my original scolding was harsh or something I posted on this one? Believe me I know where the line is. Sarcastic humor can push the boundaries too I admit. I try to laugh at some things and might say they are a joke but I draw the line at personal insults and being personally judgmental which did happen in that older thread. One thing that you might not know is how much TBM can take. The guy is bulletproof and I don't think he would be offended by things that other people might find over the line. That is one think I do like about him and the one thing that I think might benefit him come elk season.

But to let you in on some of my thoughts on the subject of this thread: An Olympic medal is quite the feat. I don't think a gold medalist track runner would appreciate some weekend jogger telling them that their accomplishment isn't that big of a deal and that it's actually really easy and that in the next 10 years they would have not 1 but 14 gold medals hanging around their neck. It's almost an attempt to diminish their success.

One time in the cook tent there was a new guide in camp. He was young and super green. But he had a heck of a day getting on six 6 point bulls for his clients. To him since that was his one and only day of guiding under his belt he formed the opinion that it was easy. Well I had this other guide. Seasoned to the bone and a very good guide. He had actually sent the newbie to most of the spots where he was bulls but I guess he forgot to mention that. When the young guy kept running his mouth about how smart he was and how dumb the elk were and they were all going to die the old dude snapped. He stood up with his finger pointed at the other guy and said something like "Nothing in life worth a #@*t comes easy boy and pretty soon you're going to find out that there is nothing easy about what we do up here" We laughed it off and it blew over and those 2 became good friends. But at the time he was personally insulted and I totally got it. Sometimes I feel the same way listening to old Turkey go on and on ya know. And believe me he knows that. A little more insight for you.

As far as his success goes: I was rooting for him and helped out when he did his first hunt. I sent him that Clip-Shot free of charge since he was solo. I took a little bashing for it too but I didn't mind. I was happy when he killed his bull too. But what happened after that wasn't pretty and the result was no more Bowsite for TBM. I write this stuff for the simple reason of hoping to avoid a repeat of the same. Ya know Swede I could have just asked "have I ever steered you wrong pardner?" I do respect the fact that you say what you think. Something I admire in people for sure!
But the truth is... I do get a laugh out of it and that's the main reason I'm on this thread. Seriously. :lol:

by **Swede** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 62]

Joe, I agree with you completely, but I have no information about the history between you and Turkey. I respect your opinion and insights. What I have found out over the years is, it is super easy for our intent and true feeling to be misunderstood when all we have is the written word. Sometime we add a :lol:

to help us. I meant no offence, but was trying to let you know how you were coming off to those of who are ignorant, on things between you and Turkey. Thanks.

Speaking of gold metals, I could get one for getting my foot farthest in my mouth if Hoof in Mouth ever becomes an Olympic sport. In the mean time, I just keep on writing and eventually I think most people understand there is no intent to be hurtful.

by **Bow4me** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 63]

I know this is the most heated thread I've seen on this site. I've been on hers for 2 years and hardly seen an argument. That's one of the things I like about. Seems like a bunch of good guys sharing some good info. Oh and no politics or religion.

by **Swede** » 07 20, 2016 • [Post 64]

I believe reasoned, respectful debate is very healthy for a forum. I really don't want Wapiti Talk to be a bunch of clones. Hunting is huge and there is room for everyone's experiences and there are different ways to hunt and butcher a critter. I generally tree stand hunt, and I gut and quarter my elk. I don't mind Indian Summer calling, or spot & stalk hunting, and doing his gutless butchering thing. He has the right to be wrong. Joe is college educated now. He will figure it out, after he has exhausted all the alternatives.

by **Indian Summer** » 07 21, 2016 • [Post 65]

Elk have guts? huh. I must have skipped that chapter in your book Swede. Time for a refresher. Don't tell anyone this but I can fell the gradual transition toward using treestands more in the future. I'll never give up my other methods but I already know for sure that the spots I have in mind WILL produce bulls. Two in particular have me drooling.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 21, 2016 • [Post 66]

It is entirely possible that I might bring something new to elk hunting that hasn't been tried and that could give me the edge over more experienced hunters. Cups and glasses have been around for years but Yeti came up with something new and better...a lot better. Should my turkey skills be transferable to elk hunting then I should do at least as good or better than these experienced guys. Part of hunting is figuring out other hunters. Lots of public hunting will yield tendencies of other hunters. Other hunters push game into pockets. Figuring out where these pockets are and hitting the elk with something they have only heard other elk do could be the ticket.

And no, I will NOT be hunting high fence! Solo diy public on land I have never seen is more than likely where i will be hunting. Getting closer.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 07 24, 2016 • [Post 67]

Odds would increase if I could keep shooting like I did today. I have bad and good days buy I hunk to he good days are getting more in number. I should be able to kill 25 and in on my he bad days and out to 35 on the good. The recurve is so much fun but what draws me is the challenge. I just don't gravitate to easy.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 09 12, 2016 • [Post 68]

I had a falling out with the recurve... I really hate that. Hopefully can get some new limbs later, but for now going with the compound. Havnt shot it but a day or 2, buy last time I shot at game I killed and made shots few are capable of making. This makes it a big bull in trouble...mayve 2.

by **Indian Summer** » 09 18, 2016 • [Post 69]

So you are going to try to fling an arrow at a living creature using a weapon you have not practiced with under a controlled situation much less when your body is trembling and you're in an awkward position? You make statements few are capable of making.

by **TurkeyBowMaster** » 10 02, 2016 • [Post 70]

I don't really need a lot of practice with the compound. I shoot one pin and basically never think about yardage. I see the target and a sight picture forms based on how far he looks. I don't use rangfinders. My bull was big...he basically had at least 15 inches of vertical kill area. My one pin was sighted in at 28 yards. I hit a couple inches high and figured the bull was around 25 but I didn't step it off. I did miss a grouse in a tree...knocked feathers out of him but didn't hit meat. That was my first miss in 10 shots at game. I got the recurve out and midified some Savora recurve limbs to fit the Hoyt riser and it shot fine. Will probably hunt deer with the recurve and am shooting better than last year and I killed several with it last season. If my performance is good and I improve next summer maybe I can elk hunt with it next fall.

by **Timber** » 10 08, 2016 • [Post 71]

Well I enjoy the tips Turkey has given here on this post and his others as well. I have now constructed a squirrel costume that I run around the woods in as I am calling them. I have even constructed it so realistic that I even carry a huge fake acorn in my hand. This and my calling has resulted in great success in my bag limits every time I go out. The only problem is that I have a heck of a time batting those pesky hawks away from me! I even called one squirrel to range out from 1000 yards to my effective range with my .22 centerfire at 300 yards! Shot it right through the eye! I think this added time along with the 20 sets of 5 reps of leg lifts while watching hunting videos has me in better shape than ever. This has me ready for hunting elk next year for sure! I would post a picture of the video of my 300 yard shot but my computer is not working at the moment. I accidently spilled my 2 liter of Mountain Dew on the monitor and I am typing this blind right now. I will finalize this though and if I can be this successful with those smart squirrels then killing an dumb elk should be very easy!

by **cohunter14** » 10 10, 2016 • [Post 72]

Timber wrote:Well I enjoy the tips Turkey has given here on this post and his others as well. I have now constructed a squirrel costume that I run around the woods in as I am calling them. I have even constructed it so realistic that I even carry a huge fake acorn in my hand. This and my calling has resulted in great success in my bag limits every time I go out. The only problem is that I have a heck of a time batting those pesky hawks away from me! I even called one squirrel to range out from 1000 yards to my effective range with my .22 centerfire at 300 yards! Shot it right through the eye! I think this added time along with the 20 sets of 5 reps of leg lifts while watching hunting videos has me in better shape than ever. This has me ready for hunting elk next year for sure! I would post a picture of the video of my 300 yard shot but my computer is not working at the moment. I accidently spilled my 2 liter of Mountain Dew on the monitor and I am typing this blind right now. I will finalize this though and if I can be this successful with those smart squirrels then killing an dumb elk should be very easy!

Now THAT is funny!!! Thanks for the laugh Timber :lol:

by **Timber** » 10 11, 2016 • [Post 73]

Now THAT is funny!!! Thanks for the laugh Timber :lol:

[/quote]
Anytime cohunter..........I like to have some fun just hope nobodys feelings were hurt.

by **WapitiTalk1** » 10 11, 2016 • [Post 74]

Locked. Moving on.