How to make a dream of hunting elk a reality

[jpbowhunter]

Hi all,
I'm an Australian and in my short time have been fortunate enough to take some nice animals here of the species that we have. But there has always been something about North American big game that has got me excited, especially elk.
Rules and regulations seem to be so much different in the US to Australia around hunting, so I guess any information on what and how to do things would be really appreciated.
I want to do an archery elk hunt one day and am happy to wait a few years if necessary to get an opportunity at something special. 
I've done a little looking and have heard that Idaho and Utah are good states to hunt in but that's a pretty broad stroke even to begin with.
Without asking for anyones "favourite spots" can anyone recommend a state or area for an international person to hunt preferably without a professional guide, as I really like to earn a trophy myself and with friends. I'm not out to take a 400" monster or anything just a nice representative head. If I could get a 6x6 that would be like christmas but I hunt for the experience and love of hunting and the outdoors as opposed to killing and the trophy itself.
Any advice on how to go about organising this would be great.
Happy hunting
JP

 

[Big Tex]

I am a big DIY advocate, but to be honest, if I had little to no prior knowledge and experience on how to get it done and was traveling from overseas for a one-time dream type of hunt, and I wanted a legimate shot at harvesting a quality (heck any) elk, I would seriously suggest getting an outfitter. 

With some research you'll find there are all shades, types and price ranges to choose from, and surely one that would fits what you are looking for.  As with anything you will pay for what you get.

If you are truely intent on trying to do it on your own, I'd get active in this forum, start picking peoples brains, start reading up on tactics from books out there like those by Eastman or Hanes, subscribe to magazines like Extreme Elk and EBJ, start learning about the different draw systems in the different states, what the different states have to offer, researching harvest stats in states/units, talking to unit biologists, and the list goes on.....and when you figure it all out, let me know becuase I'm still being humbled and learning something new every time out.

Good luck!

BT

 

[jpbowhunter]

Very true mate, I have been following a few posts but because I've had nothing to do with elk before I feel a bit stupid trying to give an opinion on them.
It does seem like a great forum though, lot of knowledgeable people here.


Cheers,


JP

 

[cowboystl1]

Hey brother hunter This forum is a great place to start. I have been chasing bulls for ten years and i learn stuff on here all the time.  A quick break down that may help is Colorado to my knowledge has the largest number of elk population fallowed by Oregon. both offer a nice trophy and over the counter bow tags and DIY opportunities as well as guides and semi guided hunts. For your money and time I would suggest at least semi guided. that way your on your own but have local knowledge of the animals and area. also you want to contact the state of your choice to find out what someone from out of country has to do to buy a tag (via hunter safety classes etc ) then its all map planning and being in shape having a great camera. If you would like to know more just ask were all in this together.