Unit 61 Elk...worth 13 points?

Brian · Feb 8, 2017

I have 13 pp as a resident and should draw an archery tag. Is it worth the 13 year wait?

HiMtnHntr · Feb 8, 2017

Sounds like a steal to me. Takes the Nonresident like 19 points. I wish you luck getting the advice you want, but from what I know, yes it's worth it.

txhunter58 · Feb 8, 2017

Actually a 14 year wait.

txhunter58

venor, ergo sum (I hunt, therefore I am)

BeanMan · Feb 8, 2017

I assume you started your scouting a year or two ago...that would make all the difference.

DIY · Feb 8, 2017

Brian there are some great bulls on 61. Every year they take 380 plus bulls out of the Padre'. The problem is all the locals running around that do not have tags bugling at the bulls. It has the unwanted affect of shutting them up and going silent. My advise would be to look at the USFS map of the area and find a canyon that is not rimmed by roads and concentrate your effort there. Most of the elk will not be on the top, they will be down in the numerous canyons off the top. Lots of oak brush and very little water. Find a canyon away from the roads that has a good water source and you will find the elk. There are some great people in Nucla and Naturita that know where the elk are. If I had that many points I would go to 61 and give it a try. Though I would be using my muzzy not sticks. Good Luck on what ever you decide.

Dikndirt · Feb 10, 2017

Brian, Send me a P.M. and I will tell you what I know about 61. I have hunted it several times in the past few years.

Simo42 · Feb 10, 2017

I would say yes. If you can draw it you will have fun. Was there two years ago and it was a blast!

Jerry · Apr 1, 2017

I just posted a request for advice on 61 elk 2 nd rifle season, very interested in your experiences there & advice. I am starting from 0 exact knowledge in that unit, have 12 points, Jerry-- Resident-- Ft Collins. See my posting for my details. I have heard good things about big elk there over many years.

r270 · Apr 1, 2017

well worth it...you will have a blast , spend a lot of time in the unit each fall PM me if you would like,had this tag a few years back

El Gringo · Apr 3, 2017

It's an awesome Elk unit. When the bulls get going it's really something. I'd apply in a second!

Mnbearhunter123 · Apr 3, 2017

I rifle hunted 61 ten or so years ago with the Garvey Brothers. It's the only guided hunt I've ever done. If you did want to go the guided route, I highly recommend them. They are a first class outfit. From what I could see at that time 61 was just starting to turn up and we took a really nice 310" type bull. Since then, they've harvested some exceptional bulls. He emailed me a picture of a 380 caliper bull they took muzzleloading a few years later. I don't believe he put it up on their website as to not misrepresent the unit and give clients unrealistic expectations. It is a lot points but there are very few units in Colorado that can produce public land trophy quality bulls.