>I guess chance would be more
>correct. Most guys shoot a
>350 to 360 class bull
>instead of a 380. The
>reason is most guys dont
>ever get a chance at
>that caliber of a bull.
>When they see a 350
>to 360 class they think
>its much larger. Trust me
>i am guilty as charged
>on this on all species.
>
>
>Also weather is a key. If
>you get a warm November
>and december it can be
>a scramble to find those
>bulls. Thus having horses is
>a key element to cover
>ground quickly.
>
>For those that have the tag
>this year well im jealous.
>
Well said.. without horses, I believe it would be pointless to put in for late hunts, and depending on the hunt, a guide might be necessary for a non-res which sounds like the OP doesn't want... myself and a friend drew a top late tag this year and packed in and hunted for a week. It was the most fun ive ever had elk hunting. Conditions were very tough for the horses, icy trails and deep snow etc... but the elk were plentiful. My partner shot a 350-360 bull on opener which was close to the 50th bull we saw. I hunted 4 more days and passed up numerous in that category and was paid off with a dream 380 typical. If you are willing to hold out, it can pay off. But it was far from an easy hunt and being very comfortable and experienced with stock in the backcountry is necessary if you don't go guided.