Scouting Question

[rost495]

Due to time constraints and other things planned etc... I can't hunt this fall. I do want to take a short trip to NM Unit 36 and was planning to do it around MZ season. Just to see how the elk react. And use that data for when and if I do get a MZ tag.

But I'm open to any opinions. I can hunt either MZ or Bow. I note there are almost double the tags for NR for bow. Of course I've never shot an elk and would love to take one with a MZ first.

So is scouting during the upcoming MZ season stupid? If I don't hear/see elk etc... in a few days of season, should I assume I should re think and try to draw an archery tag? I"ve been so close for many times with a bow but never quite right so I'd almost rather take a MZ and know that if I can see one within 200 yards I can take him.

Anyway sorry for the incoherent rambling. Just trying to schedule vacation time and need to know if I should do it as planned or else wise.

Thanks, Jeff

 

[noharleyyet]

I personally wouldn't scout during an ongoing season if that's what you're asking. Maybe if you're accompanying a tagged group or similar circumstances. When you draw or even go otc and compete with hunter pressure you'll probably feel the same way. I just returned from scouting south central Colorado but mid August would've been a better time but,like you, time constraints ruled the day.