A Thank You

[Bantams]

I would just like to send out a big "thank you" to all those who have helped me out on my quest for an elk.
As a new hunter - in a family of non/new hunters, no less - I quickly became overwhelmed when faced with the task of researching hunting spots and preparing for a real big-game hunt (my experience is limited to one deer that I shot last year, on our property).  But after receiving an outpouring of information from members (plus everything I gleaned from reading the daily posts),  I faced my first elk season with more than just a glimmer of hope.  So many individuals helped me in so many ways - from the tips on scouting and locations, to the gift of my grandfather's rifle and Jeff's scope - I can't thank you all enough!

No, I didn't get an elk.  In fact, I didn't even see one elk during the season (though we were in very promising areas).  But my dad and I spent more time out in the woods this year than ever before - tracking animals, camping, hiking - it's been a wonderful year.  A few factors led to an abbreviated season - untimely fog, a family health crisis - but I already can't wait for next year!

So thank you - for helping a new hunter on her quest for an elk.  Maybe next year....
Kelsey

[h20hunter]

Sounds like you had a very successfull first year. I say well done.

[CplRaines]

Where are you located and where did you hunt?
We were on elk all but 2 days out of the modern season this year.
One of my guys in camp - first time he'd ever seen an elk in the wild.
I am surprised you didn't even see any if you were in a good area.

Like I told my wounded warriors - I can get ya on the elk, but I can't make em grow the right amount of points and can't pull the trigger for ya. 

[SniperDanWA]

i spent great time with my son.  it was fabulous.  so happy you spent time with your dad.  getting into elk was a plus for us, but alas none harvested.  next year...

[Elknut1]

Success wears many hats, you wore one of them, congrats! Good Luck again next year & keep that fire burning in both you & your Dad!

  ElkNut1

[Greenhorn]

Congrats on getting out there.  It sounds like you had a good time with your dad.  Hopefully next time you will at least get to see some.

[erk444]

Success wears many hats, you wore one of them, congrats! Good Luck again next year & keep that fire burning in both you & your Dad!

  ElkNut1

Dude, thats a cool saying!

[Archer45]

Welcome to the real world of hunting! Everybody has different ways and styles of hunting but ultimately its a huge brother and sisterhood that is only known by the people who particpate and know first hand why we wake up early to hunt and stay up late telling stories!!

[bassquatch]

Glad to hear you're sticking with it!! 

There is nothing like that first time seeing an elk in the wild!! Do some more scouting this spring and summer and enjoy!

[Bantams]

Where are you located and where did you hunt?
We were on elk all but 2 days out of the modern season this year.
One of my guys in camp - first time he'd ever seen an elk in the wild.
I am surprised you didn't even see any if you were in a good area.

Like I told my wounded warriors - I can get ya on the elk, but I can't make em grow the right amount of points and can't pull the trigger for ya. 

My dad and I scouted and hunted in the Lewis River unit, primarily. 
Considering that we were only able to hunt three days - my dad had to go to the hospital, but he's just fine now - I'm not totally surprised we didn't see any elk.  The 50 yard visibility due to fog didn't help either.
I did spot elk while scouting this summer/fall, however, which was quite a thrill!

[Gunfire]

 Very few people will go out and get an elk every year.  On occasion we don’t see any.  What keeps most of us coming back is the great memories and camaraderie between friends and family in camp.   

I've been hunting with my father for around 30 years and now have my boys out with us.  Next season my daughter will be joining us and I couldn't be happier about it.   

Keep after it and you'll eventually get your elk.  Glad that your father is doing well and good luck next year.

[CplRaines]

Where are you located and where did you hunt?
We were on elk all but 2 days out of the modern season this year.
One of my guys in camp - first time he'd ever seen an elk in the wild.
I am surprised you didn't even see any if you were in a good area.

Like I told my wounded warriors - I can get ya on the elk, but I can't make em grow the right amount of points and can't pull the trigger for ya. 

My dad and I scouted and hunted in the Lewis River unit, primarily. 
Considering that we were only able to hunt three days - my dad had to go to the hospital, but he's just fine now - I'm not totally surprised we didn't see any elk.  The 50 yard visibility due to fog didn't help either.
I did spot elk while scouting this summer/fall, however, which was quite a thrill!

I was in the Lewis too. Camped up above the Kalama Horse camp on the 81 where the pavement ends.