CO unit #54... looking for a new Hunting buddy(s)

[cwade3085]

Hey guys I need some help.  A buddy and I have drew an archery Elk tag for Colorado gmu 54. We were planning  a DIY hunt but he just backed out on me and sent his tag in for a refund the other day. I still want to go  but I know it's not a good idea to go alone especially since this is my first hunt like this. And I don't have the cash to drop on a guide service.  So my question  is there anyone going to GMU 54 willing to let a newbie join in and learn the ropes. Or someone maybe familiar with the area  that would want to be a "guide". Or maybe a 3rd option someone going to another unit that has archery tags available and is doing a diy hunt and willing let a newbie join in

 

[usmcvet]

I feel your pain. My old hunting partner did that to me several years ago, and again the following year. I decided to go it alone. More than likely you'll have zero cell coverage so I highly recommend renting a satellite phone or purchasing a Delhorme InReach SE. Do lots of scouting using Google Earth, Colorado Division of Wildlife interactive map. Study topo maps & look for north facing slopes in the dark timber. If there's water near it that's the bonus. Go slow when you're alone and be careful. Make sure if you down an elk you're comfortable with the distance you'll need to carry it back to your vehicle. Live the hunt in your head from start to finish and think of different scenarios, then look at your packing list to see if you have all bases covered.
As for jumping on with someone else that's a tall order. We hunters are protective of all the work we did to pick our hunting spots & sharing it someone else IMO.
Good luck.

 

[cwade3085]

Thank you! I will look into those.. I agree and understand about sharing hunting spots. Kind of like  with whitetail hunting and my woods I've spent hours, days, and years on scouting and hunting or whatnot. And also meeting up with someone you never met before. Don't know how each hunt or anything else for that matter.

 

[usmcvet]

Are you going to set up camp next to the roadside or pack it into the backcountry? Roadside is easier because you can carry everything right to the spot with you and have all the creature comforts as though you're at atailgate. The bad thing about that is most people will do the same thing so it can be a bit congested. That's your first decision & your packing list will vary between the two. Once you decide then you work on the next stage of your packing list.

 

[cwade3085]

im planning on packing in. i want to get away from most of the people as i can