Out of state honeymoon hunt planning help needed: ideas for elk this summer?

[pianoman9701]

Hello all,

   So I got engaged last Sunday and we've set a date for early August. We're both aspiring/new hunters (I've had success on blacktail modern but otherwise I get skunked on all species). We want to raise our family in the woods and focus on a natural and healthy lifestyle that is well balanced and active.

We were discussing honeymoon and I suggested that we find and do a horseback archery elk trip somewhere that feels like equal parts honeymoon and hunting adventure and she was very into the idea.
Does anyone have any suggestions on a hunting "experience" where we can horseback into a spot and hear bugling bulls? She will be the primary hunter, and will be accurate to 40 yards with bow. I'll be there as well but i want my shot opportunity to be secondary to hers.

Considerations: I have some points in other states but she has none, so it has to be something we can buy OTC or direct via a guide
Budget: We're in early planning phases but budgeting $20k top end for everything start to finish, including gas, tags, lodging, hunt, and transport considerations

I would really appreciate any suggestions or recommendations!

You'd better not wait until August to marry that woman because there're about 26,000 hunters on here who would steal her in a heartbeat! Congratulations on finding a partner who likes what you like.

They all say there into it at first,give it 20 years.
I always have to remind my wife about once a year,
That she knows I was a hunter before we married,because we where hunting before we married.
It gets em every time....

My wife an I each enjoy our time apart when hunting season comes around.

[Karl Blanchard]

My wife keeps a countdown calendar to Sept 1 when she can finally be rid of me 

[pianoman9701]

My wife keeps a countdown calendar to Sept 1 when she can finally be rid of me 

Same, same.

[hunter399]

My wife keeps a countdown calendar to Sept 1 when she can finally be rid of me 

Same, same.

I'm sure my wife does the same.
I just have to reminder every once in a while I'm going hunting. She gets it for the most part.

[b0bbyg]

I don't think my wife keeps a calendar, but she has reminded me that I should go scouting/hunting/check cameras/ whatevering  because I am generally a happier person when I do, and less so when I don't.

Just a long walk in the woods can clear your head 

[ShaneTyTrey]

Having hunted in almost all Western States, both guided and unguided, I have to agree with Karl, there is no place quite like Alaska.  However, $20,000 for two people in the current environment really limits your options for a fully guided trip.  If you aren’t looking to go guided, or are just looking for a transporter, you have a lot of options.  That being said, many options may not be available this late in the game for fall of 2022 in most states.  I would be happy to share as much as you want to hear based on all my experiences, feel free to private message me.

Jeff