True Spike Bull

[Optimusprime]

Hey fellow hunters! Early season is closing in on us and it is high time to finalize plans. That being said, I am doing an early elk hunt with a buddy over east. It is a true spike only hunt. I have never gone to a TSO hunting area and thus, am looking for a few tips. First off, how rare or common are these true spikes? I am a little worried that I have gotten myself into a very, very difficult hunt in that it is a very specific type of elk bull that must be taken. Second, are their behaviors any different than any other elk I would hunt? Should I look for them in the same places? Sorry for the n00b question, but that is exactly what I am, a n00b. Any help is much appreciated. Thanks!

[Dan-o]

If I were to hunt a true spike unit, I would be sure to set my sights on having a fun, relaxing hunt....... not on getting a true spike.

For me, it's doubly difficult because even if you do have a true spike within range, it can be so darn difficult to make ABSOLUTELY POSITIVELY SURE that it's a true spike that I've lost opportunities that way.

Make the most of it and have fun.....   

[Optimusprime]

Thanks Dan-O. That is what I am kind of afraid of. Its kinda a shame. I was planning on hunting either Rimrock or St. Helens, but my 3 hunting  buddies all bailed at the last minute and the only other friend who is willing to go lives in E-burg, so we are in TSO land. Are they pretty far and few between?

[bowguy]

Makes it a little harder, but really what elk hunt isn't? Like he said have fun first and foremost like any hunting trip. They are out there I typically hunt the same style as I do for cows being usually you'll have spikes in a herd. My dad last year slammed one in a TSO at 10am opening morning and two days latter we had one between us just out of range for me however like always the dude who is tagged out has the shot opportunity. Another guy we know that hunts a TSO has killed a true spike ever since the changed the unit to it. It is possible good luck shoot straight. 

[Rooster1981]

You know what It is tougher than regular spike, but with good glass and Patience you can get your bull.  Last year in unit 329 166 true spike were harvested in modern season. If you take away the cows taken by the MH you still get 15.9% success rate. That's  one of if not best year in the past 15 years.That's phenomenal hunting as far as spike hunting goes or any other unit in the state.  So I wouldn't doom your hunt right off the get go.