Colorado Elk hunting

[Outdoorguy]

Do you guys hunt public land or ranches in Colorado? We are doing a spike camp on public land this year. Any suggestions?

 

[Ilelkhntr]

So are you trying for 1st rifle or going OTC 2nd?
I’ve always hunted public, NF.
If it’s archery, we/I tent camp. Rifle, I get a cabin close.

 

[cohunter14]

Always public land for me as well. Are you looking to have an outfitter do the spike camp for you or are you considering doing a spike camp on your own?

 

[Outdoorguy]

We have an Outfitter that supplies the tents, water, firewood and wood stoves. We are on our own. It is public land. They take us in about 8-10 miles. I was wondering if the success ratio was better on private land.

 

[Ilelkhntr]

Even if they pack you in a drop you off, you still have to know how to find and hunt elk on your own. You still have to contend with other public hunters and hikers.
Depending on the private size and location, I would think it would be better, but remember, not every piece of property holds elk. Do your research!

 

[cohunter14]

Yes, exactly what Ilelkhntr said! Also, if I was using an outfitter, I would want details on where they were taking me so I could start e-scouting the area and also figuring out how difficult it would be for others to access the same area. In addition, I would want to speak with past client references to see how the hunt went. Just like private land, not every outfitter is the same.