Hunting of Elk has gained popularity in the United States with a lot of people going to Colorado to try and see how they can fare.
Being the most sought animals in the United States after the big game animals, hunting them has not been that easy.
Before heading to Colorado for elk hunting, you should know the right gear to use, know the land and finally have to understand the local laws.
6 Elk Hunting Tips for Beginners
1. Be ready for elevation.
The difference with hunting elks compared to other animals is that elks hunting involves a lot of hiking. So in case you are planning on killing one elk, then you should prepare accordingly and be in shape to bring the elk by carrying it.
Keep in mind that altitude sickness is real especially if you are coming from the lower state. This means that you will need to have some time to acclimate yourself. You can do this moving in a motel that is 6,500 feet high.
2. Hunting tags for Colorado.
To start shooting in Colorado, you have to ensure that you have a proper tag. The tags are quite expensive especially if you are not a resident of the state. Still, we can say they are fairly easy to purchase.
The whole affair should be carefully planned so as to avoid any law incidence. You can check with the ranger if you are having any issues and always ensure that you stick within your hunting zone.
3. Colorado hunting seasons
As a hunters in Colorado, you will be required to have a valid Colorado Hunters Safety Card with a proper tag. Hunting seasons always vary by the choice of archery, muzzleloading and rifle, of which each happens only once a year.
Archery is always the comes first on the calendar, and then followed by muzzleloading, and rifle respectively. To find this year big dates, visit the Website of Colorado Park and wildlife service where you will find all the information.
4. Hunting with a guide vs without.
It should be noted that it is not everyone who goes out hunting for elk will come back with one. This is always a gamble and the success rate in Colorado is of about 20%. Even the best of the hunters are not guaranteed of success.
It is obvious that using a guide will slightly increase your success rate. They know the local terrain well, and where you are likely to find the elk.
It is always a good idea to try a guide as their job is mainly to get you to where the elks are, and their reputation is staked on finding them. The alternative is to elk calling, which works well if you have the best electronic caller.
Hiring a guide will cost some thousands of dollar, but if you are planning on saving and trying the elk hunting for yourself on public land. Then you have to set aside some weeks to gear up, your success chances will increase once you get off the road.
5. Hunting Scope and Spotting Scope
Well, this goes without saying that you will need the best spotting scope if you want to spot an elf as soon as possible. Once you spot once, you will also want to take one shot and hit your target.
A good rifle scope will go a long way in helping to achieve that goal. Most important, it will help a lot if you know how to adjust your scope correctly.
6. Water
You need to pack some water and a snack just in case you need to eat something if you don’t spot your elk on time. Plus, it is general a good practice to have some water and food when you are in the wild.
However, you shouldn’t weigh down your self with food and water. Just 2 liters of water and half a pound of snack is sufficient.
Elk Hunting is Fun for All
Regardless of whether you get yourself an elk or not, you will enjoy hunting them down in Colorado.
Before dedicating yourself to the trip, you should weigh the above information first and be ready. Always remember there is the next year in case you didn’t bring down one this time.
