Beginner Help

[MeatMissile]

Another novice question...

I have been consistently seeing a small herd of elk maybe 30-35 each trip. They seem to be hanging on the ridges above tree line. I have not seen them during the middle of the day?so I guess they head down into the trees?? I have never hunted elk, only muleys, so I really don't know how elk move.
My main question is about how to hunt a herd like this. Should I try to stalk them when they are bedded on ridges? I know stalking muleys works, but it does not seem like a viable plan for elk?Not enough cover and cannot come from above. I guess my other option is to wait in the trees lower and try to call them in? I really don't know, so I am looking for any advice. Have any of you hunted in a similar situation before?

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[chipc]

You're right. Sounds like they are bedding up for the day in the dark timber which is what they usually do. Your strategy depends somewhat on whether you are hunting with bow or gun. However, my advice would be to get as close as you can in the dark and try to intercept them before they get back into the timber. Likewise in the evening. They'll come out of the timber in the evening to feed and water. Watch from a distance to determine where they are coming out and set up there. Only go into the timber after them as a last resort - or on the last day or 2 of your hunt. If you blow them out of their bedding area they will be gone ! GOOD LUCK ! Chip

 

[MeatMissile]

Thanks Chip. I am hunting archery, so this plan sounds like it will work well for that. I will hopefully be the only person in the area, so hopefully I don't blow them out. I have found a good vantage point and will do a bunch more glassing before setting up and moving in. Hopefully I will have a good report in 20 days!

 

[hatrick]

Depends soley on which way the wind is blowing as to how you proceed after them. Hatrick

 

[hatrick]

sorry for the typo... solely lol-Hatrick

 

[jason]

what tag do you have? what unit?

 

[MeatMissile]

I'm just hunting with the over the counter colorado archery tag. I will be hunting in unit 38, although in the past I have seen bigger herds in 28 so I may switch. We will see...