I am a second year archery hunter, tagged out on my first deer just last week. Super happy to have deer in the freezer but sad hunting season came and went so fast.
After coming down from my high of taking my first deer I started looking at the regs and noticed late season Elk archery. I told myself I would get a deer before I think about Elk... Well I got my deer and now I am thinking about Elk. My plan for late season is to just get out into the woods, do some hiking around mostly scouting around for Elk with my bow in hand in case i get lucky. I also have a few buddies I might go with that are looking to fill their deer tags.
I haven't declared east or west for my elk tag yet so options are open. I was looking at GMU 454 which is any Elk and any deer, and also close to home. I don't see a on of public land in that GMU but there is a decent amount along the boarder with GMU 485 and a few other random spots.
I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for me. I will likely just get out for a long weekend early December and that's about it. What kind of access is there in 454 where in boarders 485? Is it just locked gates? Would there be another area I should consider looking at? Head East?
I am not looking for hand outs or secret spots, I fully understand it will likely be years before I actually tag an elk, I figure scouting during hunting season will make it a bit more exciting. Any advice would be appreciated.
