Utah 9 NR Elk Points

[SteveOz]

I've been targeting the Book Cliffs for Archery Elk. I think I could draw this year. I am concerned about the new regs allowing spike hunters in the LE units and the season ending so early on Sept 11.

Looking at all the LE units, there are a couple that look like I would have a good chance to draw an any weapon tag which would allow me to hunt with my bow during what I would consider a better week or a muzzloader tag even later. It looks to me like there would be less people out for either of those hunts as the general hunters do not start until later in October.

Coming from Michigan, I am not going to be able to do a lot of on the ground scouting to have waterholes and wallows located, so I believe my best bet is to be there at peak bugling to locate and ambush.

I would very much like to hear some opinions from the Utah hunters.

Thank you in advance.

 

[AWHOLELOTTABULL]

I would look at a muzzleloader tag. There's not an any weapon tag that you would have a 100% chance of drawing with 9 points. You are right about the concern with spike hunters but you can usually get away from most of them on the archery hunts. The problem I see with you trying to time the "peak" of the rut is your NR status. You should plan on at least 2 weeks of hunting to time the rut. Good luck.

It's always an adventure!!!
www.awholelottabull.com

 

[koldtrailin]

PM sent. Your are in great shape going into the drawing. Smile and enjoy!!!

 

[6X5]

If you can't scout and you need the rut, definately stay away from the archery hunt. Utah caters to the gun hunters as far as elk and they have the best hunt dates. I would not burn 9 points on an archery hunt unless you can spend the time.

 

[SteveOz]

Thank you for all the replies and PMs so far. I'd love to hear more.

 

[CWeeks]

Steve, I'm also in the same boat with you. I archery hunt elk somewhere every year but am thinking of making Utah my once-in-a-lifetime hunt for a big bull and building a few more points and changing over to a muzzy tag for the better dates if necessary. Feel lucky to be able to read post from all the knowledgable people on MM and educate myself on whats happening in Utah. Thanks guys.