What would you do?

I do not post here very often mostly because when I read the forum I am at work and don't have much time. Two seasons ago I posted my first archery animal I shot my first year archery hunting. Last year I struck out deer and elk and was unable to fill my tag. This is my third year elk hunting and I have learned a lot, done a ton of research, and started preparing to try again this year to take my first elk. I have terrible luck and didn't expect to draw a tag but I always put in. Not thinking clearly I put in for a very late rifle cow tag in unit 49 as my second choice. I have never heard of anybody actually drawing a tag on their second choice. Well I did.. I am super torn for several reasons. The tag I drew is for Nov. 24-Dec2. That is along time to wait to hunt elk... I want season to be here now. Also I didn't research the tag and realized after that there are at least 400 other cow tags and 200 bull tags that will have hunted before my hunt opens. Third I have put in so much effort, time, and money into getting ready to hunt during the rut with my bow. So what would you do? Take the tag and try to take a cow that has been super pressured or turn the tag in and hunt during the rut. On a side note father drew a unit 44 rifle bull tag. He has never drawn a tag before so we are super excited to help him out.

Buy a nonresident tag and go hunt early and late.

^What critter said, or just do archery. No shame in not picking up a drawn tag to do what you are passionate about.

How much time and money do you have? Last year was my Dads last hunt 78 yrs old on oxygen and just plain old! That said last 4 years I didn't carry a gun most days I hunted with him. I knew it was coming and wanted the best hunt I could give him. Guy's I hunt with feel same way I do about draw tags. If one of us draws a tag we have a partner that will hunt as hard as if it were there tag. I have had opportunity to harvest a lot of game in 36 years of hunting. I want the best hunt whether it's my tag or someone else. I do understand your looking to harvest your first elk and a late season cow hunt with right conditions is often a very high success proposition! Idaho is loaded with opportunity keep working hard and you'll put it together. Being motivated and working at your kraft will help you avoid making repeat mistakes and spinning your wheels. Weight your options and go with what feels best. If you give up one hunt for another just try to get the most out of that opportunity.

"100 years goes faster than you think"

Hunt two tags, and help your father. If life does not allow for that prioritize.

1- Hunt with your father over all else, I've been hunting without mine for over 25 years. Time on the mountain with Father/your kids would always be my first hunting priority.

2- Hunt the way that draws you in, life is short, and should be lived well. For me that is the elk rut, not much beats sleeping on a ridge listening to the bulls.

3- IF time, and money allow get a second tag, and spend some quality time filling the freezer.


Good luck to you and your father, I hope you have a great season!!