I only have 2 points for elk, but i wish i had 18. I dont know anyone with more than 10 points, but i wish i did so i could put in with them. I just cant imagine having 18 points for elk. Unit 23 is my favorite unit in the state, and its kind of sad to see how far downhill it has gone in recent years. I have tried to understand what has caused the drop in big bull numbers, and other than the steady increase in late rifle tags, its hard to figure it out. I have a theory though, and it has to do with the rodeo chedisky fire years ago. I think before the fire alot of elk from the reservation would jump the fence to rut in 23 north. Since most of the fire stayed on the reservation side, the reservation now has superior feed to the 23 N side. I think less elk leave the reservation to rut in 23N now after the fire because the feed is holding them on the reservation side. If you go to the areas in 23 north that the fire did jump the fence(canyon creek), you will see very large concentrations of elk because of the feed in the new burn. These areas have large numbers of reservation bulls jumping the fence. Unfortunately everyone and their grandma hunt here and the big bulls know to jump the fence before shooting light. I am just saying to the dude with 18 points, that 23 north built its reputation by being a big bull unit for years, but the days of finding multiple giants are over at least for a couple of years. 23 N is a awesome experience for bulls screaming and with the tag numbers for early rifle its hard to beat the privacy in the field. I just wouldnt want a guy to put in for 23 N going off past experiences in 23N, even if it was just 5 years ago, cause alot has changed in just the last 3. I did see a 360-370 bull this year on the late rifle hunt in the six days i was there, and i think he made it, so there is hope for next year. Send me a pm if you draw 23North cause i think i could help you out. I wish i had your problem with the 18 points and all.
