Relatively new hunter here, 45 years old and second year hunting muzzleloader. I got into the game late, and am still looking for my first big game animal, but am having a blast doing so! I have a game processing business that I let consume my hunting time for years, but no more!!!

I live in Skagit county and 407 is open for any elk until January 20th. I've been told that there is some elk in the Van Zandt Dike area, but am curious if anybody has had any success in this area or am I just beating the brush for nothing?
Most of 407 is private land, so finding a place to hunt this late is a bit tough.
Totally open to any suggestions or tips! Would also be willing to trade processing work for access to productive land to hunt on as well.