Califelkslayer
Long Time Member
- Messages
- 4,078
My dad booked a hunt with Jim this past season, muzzleloader. Just wanted to share my thoughts of the hunt. My dad was 75, doesn't get around well at any type of elevation.
The first 4 days it was hot and dry, bulls bedded by 9:00AM. Jim showed us bulls everyday. Some of the situations would have been tough for anybody to get on the bull before it bedded, impossible for my dad. The areas we hunted were limited by my dad's ability to get around but Jim tried hard everyday. He has intimate knowledge of the area, knew where the elk were, and knew their habits. Had a very close call on Day 5 at a decent 6 point bull, just didn't cinch the deal. Jim was very patient, even when my dad told him he couldn't make a certain stalk, or had to rest often on a stalk. He offered for us to hunt an additional day at no cost.
Nice, comfortable camp. Good food.
Although I'm a do it yourself type, I am the one that suggested a guide and i believe Jim gave my dad the chance possible to take a good bull, no regrets.
He also shared information on the unit even though he knew when I draw I'll probably go DIY. But when my wife draws a moose tag in that unit, my first call will be to Jim to see when he's availible.
If you are looking for a wilderness, pack in type hunt, this isn't it. If you just want to see lots of elk and maybe that bull of a lifetime, this hunt would be a good fit.
Just thought I'd share our experience for those of you that draw that tag and are considering a guide.
Hunter
The first 4 days it was hot and dry, bulls bedded by 9:00AM. Jim showed us bulls everyday. Some of the situations would have been tough for anybody to get on the bull before it bedded, impossible for my dad. The areas we hunted were limited by my dad's ability to get around but Jim tried hard everyday. He has intimate knowledge of the area, knew where the elk were, and knew their habits. Had a very close call on Day 5 at a decent 6 point bull, just didn't cinch the deal. Jim was very patient, even when my dad told him he couldn't make a certain stalk, or had to rest often on a stalk. He offered for us to hunt an additional day at no cost.
Nice, comfortable camp. Good food.
Although I'm a do it yourself type, I am the one that suggested a guide and i believe Jim gave my dad the chance possible to take a good bull, no regrets.
He also shared information on the unit even though he knew when I draw I'll probably go DIY. But when my wife draws a moose tag in that unit, my first call will be to Jim to see when he's availible.
If you are looking for a wilderness, pack in type hunt, this isn't it. If you just want to see lots of elk and maybe that bull of a lifetime, this hunt would be a good fit.
Just thought I'd share our experience for those of you that draw that tag and are considering a guide.
Hunter