Elk Hunting?

This could be a long story but I will try to keep it on the shorter side. I am 29 years old and have been whitetail hunting with my dad and brother every single year since I was 5. We have had countless good times, laughs, memories and cold ones throughout this time period but have always talked about going on a big hunt together and never have. Elk is the most common animal we always talk about but are not 100% committed to it. Heres the deal… My dad is 70 and was recently diagnosed with parkinsons, we want to go on a hunt together. I googled elk hunting trips and was overwhelmed by the options! My ignorance of out of state laws, tags and everything else is not helping. Do we all put in for tags everywhere for 2012 and then pick an outfitter? Do some outfitters have tags to sell to their clients? Which states or areas (or countries) sell over the counter tags? It would be better if we could go this fall but know we are already getting a late start. The last thing we need is atv access so he can get around to find his bull Thanks for reading so far and any information is greatly appreciated, IDO beats google any day! He is a tough man and still making things happen every day that lots of people wouldn’t dream of.

Don’t think I need to mention it here but we are not interested in high fences

Todd I used to work for a outfitter in slater Co. I am not able to work for them anymore due to career change but we were able to accomidate hunters with any needs and still have almost a 100 % kill rates for three years. I talked to my old boss last week and I beleive they still have openings for this season if you are interested, I can get you more information if you would like just send me a PM.

Both Colorado and Utah have over the counter tags. Other than that, I can’t help much. I would suggest your brother and you pool your funds to get your dad a guided hunt. Pay a little extra to be there and film it and enjoy the experience. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Good luck and have fun!!

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I would suggest your brother and you pool your funds to get your dad a guided hunt. Pay a little extra to be there and film it and enjoy the experience.

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I will have to agree with Kooty on this one…being as though your dad will probably do this once, I would try to make it a great hunt for him. You and your brother have many more years to hunt so I would try to find something for your dad…maybe surprise him with the hunt? Good luck and I hope you guys do find something that works out for you!

I agree. Do some research on outfitters, find someone with personal knowledge on that outfitter like MossyOak and contact that outfitter. He will have all the answers about getting tags.

Thanks for the replies guys! The research end of things is where I am struggling. Every website looks great and I don’t know what to believe. Which counties, sections or areas in Colorado and Utah have over the counter tags? We are definatley looking for a guided trip and concentrating on my dads needs and hunting. What I was also hoping for was anyone that has been to certain outfitters with either a good or bad recommendation to help narrow down the search. Sending you a pm next Mossyoak. Thanks again!

I’ve done very little out of state hunting in comparison to fishing. All I can say is don’t be afraid to get on the phone and just start talking to people. Call up the colorado and utah departments in charge of elk tags, ask them where the over the counters are, ask them if they have outfitter designated tags for state or zones. Call some outfitters and tell them what you are looking for. Worst case you don’t call them back-have one outfitter blow you off. I know with fishing I’ve called all kinds of places, most every one you talk to that earns a living in the field or agencies are more than willing to help as they are normal people too. Ask every question under the sun, you will be amazed at how fast you will understand how everything works. Just what I’d do and have done with great results.

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Thanks for the replies guys! The research end of things is where I am struggling. Every website looks great and I don’t know what to believe. Which counties, sections or areas in Colorado and Utah have over the counter tags? We are definatley looking for a guided trip and concentrating on my dads needs and hunting. What I was also hoping for was anyone that has been to certain outfitters with either a good or bad recommendation to help narrow down the search. Sending you a pm next Mossyoak. Thanks again!

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Todders, email me.

[email protected]

Les