Idaho Area 29

N

nocalhonker

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A friend drew this area for elk (rifle). What can he exspect to see size wise. Are there some big bulls is it real steep. What general area should he look at. Thanks!!! Nocalhonker
 
A lot of people! With 200 tags and everyone having friends, there is a lot of traffic everywhere. That said, there are a lot of elk in 29, and they get moved around all the time. You are just as apt to see a big bull down in the sagebrush (hayfield or at a water trough) as you are up in the top end of the canyons. After a couple days, they hold up tight in the timber, or up on top of the worst hill they can find. Mountains there are one-a-days (you don't come down for lunch), and depending on how long and hard he hunts, 300-340" is very possible.
 
The obvious, scout and glass and pay attention to the hints of the previous response (many elk are low). 29 is an awesome unit with real nice bulls. It deserves every bit of it's trophy reputation. There are elk throughout the unit. Some areas appear crowded but the people are there because the elk are there. Finding an area with less competition is relatively easy with a little scouting. You are so lucky! The bulls will be bugling at the front end of the hunt so they'll tell you where they are. Chat with the archery folks and you'll have lots of clues as to where to hunt. Most country is not super steep. My suggestion would be to hunt hard early and then get serious after the opening couple days of Deer season. I'm so envious. You drew a dandy tag and with persistance you'll kill a nice bull.
 
First of all, Congrats,

That is a great unit. The upper unit (elevation, not north) will be less crowded. Consider accessing it from upper sawmill canyon of unit 51. The upper drainages of Big Timer, eight mile, and Hayden creeks are good places to start looking. Like the other posts state, you could find elk anywhere in the unit. I heard a F&G biologist state a few years ago that he thinks the next state record may come from 29. I agree with the first reply, 300 - 340 with the posibility of a 350 if your lucky. Get some good maps and good luck.
 
Hunted unit 29 last year archery. I've killed many Bulls with my bow and this was by far my best and one of the funnest hunts ever. Called in several Bulls in three days. Ended up taking a satelite, but I was not horn huntin. I'll be there again this year. Send me a PM and I'll give you my contact info. Your buddy can call me after achery season and I'll hook him up.
 
Anyone got any new info. are the elk talking yet and how does it look so far. Nocalhonker
 

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