505/503 Late Muzzleloader advice

[westside103147]

With my summer work season running long this year I didn't get much time to get out during the early season. Just curious what others experiences are with the late hunt in 505/503? Trying to figure out if I am just better off trying harvest a cow in my home unit (454) or taking off and exploring some new ground.


Any input would be greatly appreciated!

[Remnar]

 I have no idea about your home unit 454 .  If you have any chance at an elk there I wouldn't waste your time on 503/505 . Not that many elk in either unit anymore and plenty of hunting pressure . Also 505 is mostly private and 503 has a fair amount of private property also . 

[bkaech]

I've done the late hunt in 505 and found elk, but had a tough time putting it all together. The elk aren't everywhere in those units so you will need to find where they are hanging out and if that is public/accessible land. Also there is plenty of pressure so after the first day or 2 the elk are usually pushed away from easily accessible areas to places where lots of walking is required and also in small groups of just a few animals. If you can scout this week in 505/503 and find something, or give it a go the first few days, but if you don't find anything soon I would stick to an area you know better if you want some meat for the freezer.