Guns, Bows, Shooting Sports, and Hunting Idaho Elk hunting

[JKreiss]

My buddy just drew unit 29 for Idaho Elk this year. I hadn't planned on going out there till next year but nobody else drew so they backed out on him. Soooooooo i was going to go with him and try to get an over the counter tag for mule deer. Anybody have any experience with that area? We have a place to stay and will be VERY green to the ways of Elk hunting. Aside from the obvious (physical fitness, range time, maps, etc. ) what advice do any of you seasoned Elk hunters or Idaho hunters have. Or, what is a good resource? I've been reading the Idaho F&G website for info as well. Thanks guys for the help!

 

[GHarman]

Bignasty!

JKreiss, You need to talk to BIGNASTY! He is really setup to hunt ELK and is more familiar with those Northern States. (Recently moved to Montana)

My input would be obvious. Practice with your rifle. Learn range estimation and the anatomy of the animal so you can place a shot for a "DRT" kill. If you are hunting in an area with a significant change in altitude from where you were sighting in, back in Ca. You will have to re-zero your rifle. Altitude makes a difference! Be aware of Bears! Have maps, compass and know where you are going. First aid supplies including disinfectant, in case you cut yourself while skinning and butchering, Be prepared! Good Huntin'! GregH

PS. I carry a packet of baby wipes with my knives to clean up your hands after gutting. That dried blood can cause drycracks in your skin in very cold weather. I used to use "Bag Balm". They both work better than bear grease, Pilgrim!:-laf

 

[JKreiss]

Thanks for the help! Yeah we both are from the foothills so we'll be sighting in at around 3000ft. I'm not sure yet what the altitude of where we'll be hunting. I'm trying to gather as much information as possible while still doing my homework for hunting here. Like i said i hadn't planned on going till next year but if he needs someone to go with him, he won't have to twist my arm. I have a Taurus Tracker i use for bears out here, i'm sure that will be enough out there right? I plan on just spot and stock hunting and packing my water/first aid with us so i think we should be good. I need to look into more of how the mobility is as far as driving in or using a quads. Still have a lot of reading to do!