Resident Muzzy Cow

[toolmann]

Hey everyone. So in planning for this season we've decided to try muzzleloader elk. We're meat hunters, so cow tags are fine. We've been rifle hunting elk the past 6 years or so alternating between 1st and 2nd season as 1st takes a point where we typically go. I also archery hunt a little, but not much. My wife is my hunting partner for elk unless I'm doing archery. We do all of our own meat cutting together in the kitchen. Yeah, she's pretty damn awesome. Anyway, I think I have it down to a few units. We're not getting any younger and my body isn't getting any better. At 43 I have arthritis in my back and feet, but we are very active in hiking, gym, fishing, etc. We've decided that before we're too old to do it we want to do some backpack hunting. Not like some of you studs spending the whole week on your back, but a few nights, then come back to a base camp, move if necessary, etc. Looking at draw odds I'm thinking 500 or 501. 501 looked interesting but harvest numbers are very low for muzzy cow. 500 is a bit harder to draw, but one of us should. We may even put in as a group so we either both draw or don't; then just figure out something for OTC 2nd season. I'm familiar with Jefferson Lake but have never looked for elk around there.

Not looking for honey holes, just wondering if anyone has any guidance. If 500 we'll probably park the trailer at one of the Jefferson Lake campgrounds for base camp, then drive somewhere and pack in for a few days at a time. It sort of gives us a safety net if things get back or my body starts not cooperating. Any help is appreciated. I will definitely scout this summer whichever unit we go to.

Thanks in advance,

ToolMann

 

[txhunter58]

Don’t know anything about the units, but looking at harvest stats for the last 3 years I would not be considering 501 at all. They were worse than dismal

500 has low to decent success rates and might work. I assume you both have 0 points? 75% chance of drawing with 0 which, as you stated, would prob mean at least one of you draws. Good luck