Advice for a Colorado hunter in WA

[cardinalguns]

First, some clarifications: I have hunted elk over a period of 37 years, albeit in Colorado. Even when stationed in Germany, I returned to CO to hunt elk. Having moved to the rainy part of the state, it is a completely different mind-set for elk hunting. I suppose CO is somewhat similar to E. Washington in terrain, foliage, and sub-species (Rocky Mtn Elk). For the past two years I have paid the non- resident fees to hunt CO. Daughter has hunted since she was a teen, and now her S.O. wants to try elk hunting. Due to expenses and license fees, not to mention work schedules and child care complications, we discussed hunting WA state this fall.

I'm not an expert in the WA regulations and difficulties in drawing various licenses. I also know that no one wants to give up their secrets. I am not asking for GPS coordinates for your honey hole. There are no aspirations for big bulls, cows and spikes are good enough. I have the summer to get the young man shooting straight and outfitted for a hunt. Daughter is good to go except for some target practice.

With all that being said- is there a simple answer to the question: Where should I take a rookie and two nimrods elk hunting in WA state? 

Any tips or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

[Skillet]

Being honest here - I would take them to Colorado.

Here's the reason for my suggestion:

http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/harvest/2013/elk_general.html

Over the counter Modern Firearm tags here had a 10.4% overall success ratio, a 4.6% ratio for the East Slopes of the Cascades, a 4.3% success ratio for the Blues, and a 4.2% ratio for the NE corner.  There is just not enough elk to go around and there is a lot of pumpkins in the field during Modern.  It would be a tough way to get some young folks into elk hunting, in my opinion. Not saying it can't be done, but dang.

The main reason why a lot of us don't run to Colorado every year is costs, of course, but also lack of knowledge of the area.  You obviously know the area and could likely put them in a decent position to get an animal.  I don't know what Colorado's elk success ratios are like, but I'd imagine they have to be better than here.

[bobcat]

Best bet would probably be to try to draw some cow permits in any of the Yakima area units. Have everyone apply separately to increase odds of getting at least one cow permit. Those who don't draw will be limited to spikes. If you're all in good shape it should be possible to have a decent hunt. Just plan on hunting  a couple miles away from open roads.

[JimmyHoffa]

I would look at GMUs by elk pop, harvest and access.  Then figure out which ones you'll have time to scout out and get basic lay of the land to know where the trails, feeding areas, clear cuts, old growth, where the loggers will be, what gates, etc.  But by rifle season, realize that animals have probably been chased around a lot already by early bow, muzzy, special permit, raffle, incentive tag, auction tags, tribal hunters, etc.

[WapitiTalk1]

Just an option buddy, but Idaho is only a few tanks of gas away and the NR elk tags are around $550 per person.  You can get either an OTC A or B tag; both give you opportunties to hunt with multiple weapons.  The A tag is more archery heavy with a shorter rifle season; the B tag is vise-versa.  Example of the A tag would be to hunt anytime between 6-30 SEP for bugling bulls with a follow on five day rifle season the third week in OCT.  Heck, on that tag you can go back again in NOV and hunt with a smoke pole if you want. Although WA has finally pushed the archery season to the left a bit, allowing hunters to get a bit more of the rut, it's still "not there" IMO.  Just something to consider.     

[buglebrush]

If there is any way you can swing it go CO.  You obviously already know the area etc...  The short seasons in Washington compress everyone into the woods at the same time.  Definitely impacts the success, but even more it really can ruin the experience too. 

[ridgefire]

After hunting idaho the last 8-9 years i hardly waste my time hunting elk in wa anymore. I put in for the draw and will draw a tag one of these years but until then i will gladly pay to hunt out of state.  I would suggest paying the money and  heading to Colorado.

[JimmyHoffa]

After hunting idaho the last 8-9 years i hardly waste my time hunting elk in wa anymore. I put in for the draw and will draw a tag one of these years but until then i will gladly pay to hunt out of state.  I would suggest paying the money and  heading to Colorado.

I think that for WA and OR, there is enough of a terrain/weather difference that coastal elk might be an experience he can't really get out of state.  But for just wanting any kind of elk, seems the rocky mtn states have better elk management and seasons more friendly/conducive to hunters and their success.

[coachcw]

Iyou archery hunt wa is ok if your a rifle hunter be prepaired to be over run inless you get away from roads and pack in .

[cardinalguns]

I should also add that we are rifle hunters.

[coachcw]

I should also add that we are rifle hunters.

tough sledding i'd spend some boot leather hiking in .... 

[MADMAX]

I'd also go to Colorado or even Idaho.

Washington elk hunters , especially with a rifle, dont IMO get the best of anything, spikes in the east, true spikes above I-90 and below Wenatchee, Timber company permits or being locked out in the westside, unless you do the peninsula and stay on state or Federal or draw a good permit.
You could try any elk in the NE .

 

[Special T]

Well I would say go to SW washington. It is different hunting than you have done, and the elk dont act like they do in CO in eastern wa. There is plenty of elk and area in the SW region. IMO key is to start scouting NOW and learn the areas that you plan to hunt. I have rifle hunted NF lands in the SW. Never got an elk but came damn close before going archery. Rifle season is SHORT take the whole time if you can and hunt hard. IMO still hunting is the way to go in the timber unless you get into a really hot spot then maybe sit and wait. Pick up the book "The Wild and Savory Mushroom" Ive found lots of edible mushrooms scouting and hunting. Be prepared for a week of down pouring rain. I think the SW is a good opportunity because of closeness, and because plenty of hunter put nicer weather above opportunity. Good Luck... BTW the state average is one elk every 8 years...

[Taco280AI]

When I get back to the NW I'll have to see about access permits, tag costs, seasons, opportunity and weigh it all against just hunting out of state. Was amazed when I hunted out of state for muleys vs wet side blacktails. As long as I put in the time and effort it wasn't a matter of simply finding a deer, but deciding which buck I wanted. Haven't hunted elk in WA much, and never did get one, but hunted for them in Oregon a few years and got a couple. Also got some in Idaho.

[cardinalguns]

I really appreciate the input and your advice. I think the last time I checked statistics in CO, the statewide success ratio for elk, all seasons and methods combined, was 17%.

You fellas are not painting a pretty picture. I do like to stalk the timber and bedding areas, I find it more challenging and exciting. From what I am hearing, our chances won't be improved hunting in less populated areas. I have considered the peninsula, but had no recommendations to go on till now.

I will start researching some areas and corresponding tag possibilities. Thank you again!

[JimmyHoffa]

The peninsula still has a bit of DNR and USFS land available.  Or you can get a tree farm permit to add to that.  The permits go on sale kind of late, though.  Seem to recall Rayonier being mid August.  The OTC GMUs are on the western half.  The eastern half is 'bull elk' special permit.  And the permit dates are usually the same as the general dates, so if you don't get a bull on the permit--you don't get the back up of going to a general area.

[Taco280AI]

Just found out I'm slated to go to Carson next (Colorado Springs)! Can't wait... only hope it stays that way, don't have official orders yet. I hope I hope I hope 

[cardinalguns]

Fort Carson is good, but Colorado Springs is turning into a smaller version of Denver. It used to be such a nice little city...

FWIW, my brother lives in Kiowa, not a horrible drive from Ft. Carson- you can find space to roam and shoot out in Elbert County.

[BGLEMIN]

I too am a recent transplant from CO. Been in WA for two years now. Got an archery bull my first weekend out in 2013! My fiance nearly sealed the deal last season on a beautiful 6x6 at 16yds, but elected to pass as she was concerned the arrow might deflect off a branch. I commend her for having the intestinal fortitude to pass rather than wound. I had a botched opportunity at a 5x4 during early muzzy, came in silent to a call session I had and caught me munching my lunch  We have only hunted thus far in SW WA. We have been in elk and at least seen them on every adventure out. How??

I use the same tactics as I did in CO. We hunt steep, dark timber away from the roads. I look for areas that are north or east facing, has water within 2 miles, and has clear cuts or meadows for grass...also within 2 miles. You don't have to hear an elk to call an elk, but you should hold your position for up to an hour after calling, and yes you can call in elk in any season! I suggest listening to audio clips of herd talk...forget the bugling and estrus whines. You want to sound like a couple cows and calves chatting with each other, and call softly. Have at least three different sounding cow calls.

Bottom line...there are great elk hunting opportunities in WA from what I've discovered. You have to get in the woods though. Think outside the box and hunt in those spots no one else is because they don't look like "good" elk spots. You'll find elk there because they've been pushed out of the "good" spots. Best of luck!!

[Taco280AI]

Biggest bull I've ever seen was a 7 point about four miles from a town and maybe half mile off a main highway in thick stuff. Of course it was opening day of deer season (rifle) and I blew a cow call after snapping a twig. Stood there for about five minutes hoping anything around that may have heard me thought I was just an elk and he came in silent until he was 20 yards. Then he snapped a twig, I turned around, and he was standing there staring at me. Stood there for about two minutes just staring at me before walking off just as silent as he came in.

[cryder]

I have hunted Coloradoe and all I can say is why did you leave ? Must be that darn over rated work thing,but since your staying in Washington get a bow . Unless you like moveing punmpkin patches, or exspensive guides.One thing for sure starting on this forum is a very good place to start there are some good people on here ready to point you in the right derection . As long as your punctuality is correct.  :chuckle:welcome to the evergreen state,with all the laws and regulations , ( just conform and try to comply,in otherwords try to fit the criteria that can change yearly )

[bowhuntersd]

Save your money and go back to Colorado. This state is far from worth it. good luck.

[cem3434]

I too am a recent transplant from CO. Been in WA for two years now. Got an archery bull my first weekend out in 2013! My fiance nearly sealed the deal last season on a beautiful 6x6 at 16yds, but elected to pass as she was concerned the arrow might deflect off a branch. I commend her for having the intestinal fortitude to pass rather than wound. I had a botched opportunity at a 5x4 during early muzzy, came in silent to a call session I had and caught me munching my lunch  We have only hunted thus far in SW WA. We have been in elk and at least seen them on every adventure out. How??

I use the same tactics as I did in CO. We hunt steep, dark timber away from the roads. I look for areas that are north or east facing, has water within 2 miles, and has clear cuts or meadows for grass...also within 2 miles. You don't have to hear an elk to call an elk, but you should hold your position for up to an hour after calling, and yes you can call in elk in any season! I suggest listening to audio clips of herd talk...forget the bugling and estrus whines. You want to sound like a couple cows and calves chatting with each other, and call softly. Have at least three different sounding cow calls.

Bottom line...there are great elk hunting opportunities in WA from what I've discovered. You have to get in the woods though. Think outside the box and hunt in those spots no one else is because they don't look like "good" elk spots. You'll find elk there because they've been pushed out of the "good" spots. Best of luck!!

  Very sound advice, which has worked for my wife and myself several times. PM me and maybe we can share some information with one another.

[Humptulips]

I think some guys are just trying to scare you off. I would likely look at SW WA if I was in your shoes.
Personally I rifle hunt the Penninsula because it's close to home and I know the area. I seldom see another hunter except when driving to and from. Things have went down hill as far as elk hunting in recent years but I think it is not unrealistic to expect to kill a bull every three years or so. I used to think I was a cinch every year but that is history. You can hunt the timber company land and that will be mostly looking at clearcuts and trying to guess from sign where the elk will show up. Or you can go Public Land and get into some timber. One thing for sure pre-season scouting and just familiarizing yourself with an area is what will get you an elk. One other thing, IMO if you can drive to the place your chances are poor. I hunt off a bicycle mostly. Well, really not hunt off it but it gets me in past the gate a ways. 

[cryder]

RAINEAR BLV.