Flatlander in need of advice

[rh44mag]

I have hunted all my life and always dreamed of elk hunting. I have come to the realization that I am not getting any younger so I need to get going. I would Like to do a DIY hunt. My weapon of choice is bow. Where do I start? What state has the best odds on a draw, are there any places left that still sell over the counter tags for bulls? What areas have the higest elk to hunter ratio? What state has the lowest tag fee? I figure it will take a few years for planning an research to get all my ducks in a row. I thought I read something about some states have a minimum requirement for draw weight and arrow weight, is this true? Like I said I am just in the research stage at this point. Any and all help is appreciated.

 

[COHunter]

Colorado will definatly be the easiest state as far as getting a tag goes, but that comes with a crowding issue as well. During archery season, crowding isn't much of an issue though.

If you decide to hunt here, you can always come out and do a cow hunt or two which only cost $250 and learn an area before you drop the $490 for a Bull/Either-Sex tag.

The most elk are in the Northwest part of the State (GMU's 25 & 26 are popular OTC area's), but anywhere west of I-25 has Elk. GMU's 4, 5, & 441 have a lot of Elk (my own experience), but you must draw those area's for archery, its an easy draw though.

 

[Quacker Wacker]

Idaho has easy OTC access to bugling bulls. I would recommend the SE part of the state. Look up the state f&G site, lots of stats and maps of general area.

 

[rh44mag]

thanks for the help fellas, always appreciated

 

[Bill in SD]

Did you get those emails I sent you? Check out www.bowsite.com and www.monstermules.com

Bill

 

[rh44mag]

How rude of me! Yes I did and thank you so much. Every time I thought about emailing you a thanks I seemed to get interrupted. All the info will be very helpful as I plan my hunt