Non-resident success rates are probably closer to 5%, maybe even less. Overall DIY archery success rates for elk are 10%. You have to be fully prepared to not harvest an animal your first time, even your second or third time. Just a heads up with DIY, there is a big learning curve. If you plan on doing this multiple times, like every year or every couple of years, go DIY. Legit guys belong to their assn.Įastmans is here and has forums for not only species, but states too.to ask about outfitters. The good thing about drop camps is you don't have to bring any camping gear.then tote it somewhere.ĪLSO, ,many places have locals that will pack your gear in and out, the state outfitters assn should have a list.ĪND, check the BBB as well, for complaints, as well as the CO Outfitters Assn, or ID, etc.

They may pack you into a camp already set up, and was used the previous week.AN IMPORTANT QUESTION TO ASK. You could Google both terms and put what state, CO or ID, and find outfitters that do that, THEN ask for references, and CONTACT THEM. There are also 'drop camps' where a guide packs you and gear in on horses, then returns in _ days to pack you out. Start going up and down the bleachers at the local high school football fieldĮvery 2 weeks add 2 bricks to your back pack, soon you'll be adding cinder blocks. HAVE YOU STARTED TRAINING? if not, you're a lil bit behind They are 1st come 1st serve beginning in Dec. You just buy tags online, unless they have sold out. Not just from my connections, but the OTC tags for deer and elk both. If you drive, have coolers, ice and a plan. If you fly, figure out how you're gonna cool and ship a couple hundred lbs of meat, if you're successful. You can do a DIY for about $1000+.about $100/mth. Budget and plan your logistics in advance.

OTOH, our hunting groups have packed out 2-300# of meat a few times. You're not going to drag a 5-700# animal out. Know where to aim and have a plan to break down an animal and get it off the mtn. Shorter shots will become chip shots, but stuff happens and being able to take a follow up distance shot may be clutch.Īnimal anatomy and butchering. You may want to practice longer distances and up/downhill shots than most of us 'flatlanders' are accustomed. Get a practice hike / shakedown trip in this spring /summer. Mtn hunting is one case where being neither too heavy or too muscle bound helps. Add a few weighted pack hikes and core strength. First year, I lost 60# just getting 10-20k steps/day. As mentioned, CO is closing many prior OTC units for archery and limiting tags for MZ and rifle. ID (must apply online at opening as they sell out) or CO historically have been the principle otc states. Ensure you meet the prereqs for licenses (eg hunter safety cert). Pick a state, as mentioned a few states offer OTC tags.

Kentucky elk guide cost