Seeking outfitter advice

[warpheagle]

I am a newby to elk hunting, trying to line up my first elk hunt for fall, 2011. At this time I have no allegiances to any particular state, just looking for a good opportunity with an outfitter since I have never done it before. I will be rifle hunting, not willing to spend top dollar, but I understand that it will cost something to get a decent hunt. If anyone has any suggestions to offer I would appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

 

[littlejoe]

So many variables. do you have points in any state and could draw a tag? What is the max you will spend? What month do you want to go? do you want to go horse back and do a wilderness hunt? Lots of spotting and stalking? Need more specifics.

 

[warpheagle]

I am looking at Oct, 2011. Either a rifle or ML hunt. Trying to stay in the $4000 range and would like a horseback hunt if not overly difficult, I'm not sure if I can hold up for an overly physical hunt, therefore I would rule out the toughest of the tough. I do not have preference points at all. I have read up mostly on NM, CO and WY, but I don't really have any personal leads on any outfitters other than websites and emails. TIA

 

[MrKrabs]

You might get in that price range with a semi guided or 2x1 horseback hunt like Indian Summer Outfitters in Montana offers. Any horseback hunt is likely going to be tough and require you to be in good shape though. I expect to be walking at least 5 miles a day when I go on my horseback hunt next year.

My stepdad is in the same situation and can't climb mountains anymore. I worked with JFW Ranch Consulting in New Mexico to find something that would work for him. The hunt we went on was more than $4,000 , but Jim will work with whatever criteria you give him.

Ben

 

[Edpre]

A good hunt in your price range would be a wilderness hunt with WTR Outfitters, in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in MT. I would first tell you that "The Bob" is not all some have it cracked up to be, but neither is it as bad as some put it. It sure is pretty country, though, with decent game numbers. I've done it three times before and had good success. You can do a fully guided 2 on 1 for $4000 and a semi - drop camp for $3000. Early rifle season is available, usually opens around Sept. 10-12. I'd book the first or second "hunt" dates if it were me. Hunting bugling bulls is a kick, plus you can opt for the semi hunt at $3000 when they're screaming early. You don't really need a guide then, just good ears and self-motivation to go and get 'em. About WTROutfitters- first class operation with first class gear and stock. Food has always been great, and usually too much of it. Combo tag gets you mulies too. If you by chance do it, get ahold of me, I'd be glad to steer you around in there a bit.

Check out www.wtroutfitters.com

Good luck on your search,

edpre

 

[Iowan]

Not knowing all I need I would offer the following based on what you have provided:

I would spend most of your budget buying a quality tag in New Mexico or Utah. Try to draw first of course. You can buy a pretty good muzzle loader tag for $3,000 and then spend another $1,500 to hire a guide (yes, you can get a good guide for $300 per day 5 day minimum). You will have to take care of camp, food, and many other things on your own but I woudl spend my money to be in the right place.

If you get lucky and draw the tag then you can spend more of your budget on gear and gudies. Without points you need to get real lucky or buy a quality tag.

 

[rockn9858]

warpheagle
I am an outfitter in NM andcan do a hunt in that range. we would have to get you in the draw. NM non-resident guided go into the outfitter pool which is 12% of the draw but less applicants to compete with. if you do not draw we can figure out a LOT in a good unit with guide only type sinero. anyways if you have any question give me a ring I will be glad to give you refferances to call. successful and un-successfull. I run a small outfitting company so you are not just a number to me. Thanks for your time
James Provencio
Provencio outdoor Adventures
505-264-3534

http://hunt-nm.sports.officelive.com/default.aspx

 

[warpheagle]

Thanks for all of the replies so far. Some good info!

 

[Iowan]

I should have added that if you have no points in any states, there is no doubt you should focus on New Mexico as far as drawing a tag goes.

 

[feddoc]

Jim is a good guy. I've never hunted with him, but know him personally through my brother. He will treat you right.

Compromise, hell! ... If freedom is right and tyranny is wrong, why should those who believe in freedom treat it as if it were a roll of bologna to be bartered a slice at a time?

 

[hossblur]

Search For AWHOLELOTTABULL on this site. Never hunted with the dude buy in conversation he has come off as a first class guy. He is in utah, down in Elk Ridge. Again even if you don't book with the guy he is the kind of dude that will help you out