So, I've got an elk hunt coming up in thick timber, deadfall, and steep country. My preferred strategy is spot-and-stalk because everyone says it works so well, but there aren't a lot of good vantage points. So I am wondering about the alternatives.
Ambush: I found at least one low saddle between two large draws that had decent sign. I could see elk crossing the saddle as they get pushed around. There's also an area I found a couple old kills near the border with private land where they might get pushed. For this I would need to better understand how elk move across the land. Do they stick to cover? Do they run up, down, or sidehill? Do they run upwind or down?
Still hunting: If the rut is over the bulls will be hunkering down to rest. I might be able to find them this way, but seeing them before they see me will be...difficult or impossible. I don't have woodcraft for this, but it sounds fun nonetheless. I aspire to being a deadly shadow, but ain't there yet.
Driving: If I knew approximately where they are, I will have my brother and a friend with me and we could set up a drive. Not my favorite option, but might be worth a try.
Anyone like these options over the spot-and-stalk method that I've read so much about? If you have a favorite, what are your keys to success? Are there others that I've missed?
Thanks!
Ambush: I found at least one low saddle between two large draws that had decent sign. I could see elk crossing the saddle as they get pushed around. There's also an area I found a couple old kills near the border with private land where they might get pushed. For this I would need to better understand how elk move across the land. Do they stick to cover? Do they run up, down, or sidehill? Do they run upwind or down?
Still hunting: If the rut is over the bulls will be hunkering down to rest. I might be able to find them this way, but seeing them before they see me will be...difficult or impossible. I don't have woodcraft for this, but it sounds fun nonetheless. I aspire to being a deadly shadow, but ain't there yet.
Driving: If I knew approximately where they are, I will have my brother and a friend with me and we could set up a drive. Not my favorite option, but might be worth a try.
Anyone like these options over the spot-and-stalk method that I've read so much about? If you have a favorite, what are your keys to success? Are there others that I've missed?
Thanks!