I did a little elk scouting this weekend... first time putting eyes on hills and boots on the ground in this area. I have been studying maps for the past two months; and let me tell you:
there is no substitute to getting out into the field. My perspective was was off; the area much larger then I imagined. Areas that looked like a quick hike would have been death marches. Some roads didn't exist. Some existed but were super gnarly. Needless to say, I am happy I figured all this out in July and not late Aug!
My bro tagged along; and it made an epic trip. He doesn't hunt, but is in wicked good shape (crossfit!) and never once complained when I said "hey, let's check out that that ridge... or... let's dive down that hill"
We had a blast. And I had a reality check. It's not about the September hunt; it's about the journey. It's about the scouting, the burgers on the way out of town, the beers around the fire, the laughs in the tent, taking my 4runner up gnarly ATV trails, and all that stuff!
The September hunt (and possible harvest) is just icing on the cake!
Oh, and we saw a few wapati too! and grouse! and mule deer! and a dove!
