The Elk Thread

[Texans42]

If you were hunting a private land late September New Mexico archery hunt with a guide what would you bring in your pack? Knife, Binos, range finder, wind checker, flashlight, rain jacket. Im in descent shape just never been Elk hunting and dont want to forget anything obvious, and I am looking for the must haves I dont know about. Was hoping to get away with a fanny pack instead of a back pack.

Yes, plus water, blister kit, one pair of socks, snacks and hoodie.

It’s just easier. Lots of great lightweight packs that work great for that.

[Bill]

Ask the guide for a list of things to bring.


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[Kokanee]

If you were hunting a private land late September New Mexico archery hunt with a guide what would you bring in your pack? Knife, Binos, range finder, wind checker, flashlight, rain jacket. Im in descent shape just never been Elk hunting and dont want to forget anything obvious, and I am looking for the must haves I dont know about. Was hoping to get away with a fanny pack instead of a back pack.

Do not forget wet-wipes! Nothing worse than a full pack of "stuff" but have to ask for paper products.

[old killer]

Enough for a good tip.

[Chew]

Extra release and sight. Extra copy of license/tags. Couple protein bars. Moleskin. Band-Aids. Extra batteries for lights, sight light, rangefinder.

[ladrones]

Snacks for the truck.


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[twdjr]

All good advice above. For me a small lightweight pack with a bladder in it works better than a fanny pack. I do not like the weight pulling down on my waste and rather have it on my shoulders. I find a bladder is quieter than carrying plastic water bottles and water sloshing. I keep it light being I'm returning to camp after each hunt.

[Etxnoodler]

How far is to far to kill an elk from the truck by yourself? Would 6 miles be to far if it was mostly, relatively gently down hill? Or would a diffrent route out that was about 1.75 but steep down then steep up be better? Only reason I’m considering the 6 miles is it would be mostly down hill hauling the elk back to o the truck. All of those assuming it’s cool enough for the elk to last a couple of days.

[justletmein]

How far is to far to kill an elk from the truck by yourself? Would 6 miles be to far if it was mostly, relatively gently down hill? Or would a diffrent route out that was about 1.75 but steep down then steep up be better? Only reason I’m considering the 6 miles is it would be mostly down hill hauling the elk back to o the truck. All of those assuming it’s cool enough for the elk to last a couple of days.

Gonna be an individual decision. Personally I'd be fine with the 6 miles mostly downhill. I'd rather not pack heavy loads over much incline if I can help it.

[Dave_]

Depends how many people are helping with the pack out also. On a bull you many be looking at 4-5 loads, depending on the size of the bull, if taking the skull/cape, how much meat you can scrap off, and physical ability. @ 12 miles round trip, that's 48-60 miles solo. Half with heavy weight, the other half uphill. Then you have to go back and get your camp out. Just something to think about.

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[bsills]

Thanks everyone

[Texans42]

How far is to far to kill an elk from the truck by yourself? Would 6 miles be to far if it was mostly, relatively gently down hill? Or would a diffrent route out that was about 1.75 but steep down then steep up be better? Only reason I’m considering the 6 miles is it would be mostly down hill hauling the elk back to o the truck. All of those assuming it’s cool enough for the elk to last a couple of days.

Very very Few can do it under 2 days. A few can do it in 3 days and most could do it in 4

A lot just depends on heat, trail condition, over all elevation and elevation change. In addition gatigue wise, boots and pack choice also play a big part.

[LWC]

Depends how many people are helping with the pack out also. On a bull you many be looking at 4-5 loads, depending on the size of the bull, if taking the skull/cape, how much meat you can scrap off, and physical ability. @ 12 miles round trip, that's 48-60 miles solo. Half with heavy weight, the other half uphill. Then you have to go back and get your camp out. Just something to think about.

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I don't think that some people take the time to figure up the total miles and the time it would take, until after the shot. Carrying 80ish lbs for 24-30 miles ain't no joke...especially solo!
Wonder how many elk quarters get left on the mountain every year. My guess is several.

[Etxnoodler]

I don't think that some people take the time to figure up the total miles and the time it would take, until after the shot. Carrying 80ish lbs for 24-30 miles ain't no joke...especially solo!
Wonder how many elk quarters get left on the mountain every year. My guess is several.

Oh I’ve done the math. I figure 30 miles after the kill if I can do 3 loads 42 if it takes 4. Gonna be a bummer. weather being cool enough would be the real determining factor. Hopefully I don’t have to go that far to find one, that’s just the furthest I was considering going and was curious of others thoughts.

[meltingfeather]

We're headed out Saturday and will be hunting the high country above Chama by this time next week!