I was able to harvest a public lands bull elk in Montana this year. One of my favorite hunts of my life. I thought I'd share some pictures. Sure is different from Missouri white tail (what I cut my teeth on).
It was not warm when I got to the trail head.
The trail in was brisk but nice. We backpacked in 3.4 miles and 2000 feet up.
Having a boot issue in really cold weather isn't the best. I guess I got them a little close to the fire. Nothing a ski strap and some contractor string couldn't fix.
Camp from afar (not that far)
Camp during the day.
Camp at night.
We used a Seek Outside tent. We couldn't have done a cold weather hunt like this without it. The titanium stove and tent weights 6.5 lbs. Plenty of heat. We cooked (boiled water) on it too.
Frost accumulation during the night. We kept the stove going all night too!
While my friend was on an epic stalk that required him going down 1000 and up 2000 feet, I stayed put and guided him into where the elk were. That was the plan at least. They fed out of sight and couldn't be found before he got there. Meanwhile 3 bulls ran within 234 yards of me. This was the largest one. Cabelas won't buy him from me, and I wouldn't sell him anyway. The euro mount will be on my wall here soon. Browning Hells Canyon Long Range in 300 win mag with an 180 grain Barnes TTSX did the trick just fine.
Also the hill he died on was super steep. And slick from snow. Worst place I ever had to break down an animal at.
We ended up with 217 pounds of boneless meat. And let me tell you, it's all really good.
Carrying elk quarters through wind blow lodge pole will give you a new perspective on life.
An amazing experience. We heard wolves howl at night and had grizzly tracks by camp. Growing up in Missouri I always wanted to go hunt elk. I now have in Utah, Nevada, Idaho, and Montana. If you want to hunt elk, do it. The road goes both ways. I'll definitely go back and hunt elk in Montana again. With new boots. And a lighter rifle. I can't wait.