Turnbull archery cow tag

[huntinfool81]

Anyone hunt this in the past? I tossed my name in the hat and drew it. While looking at some old posts it doesn't look too promising. I drew the SW Unit with 8 other guys. Been doing a bit of homework, but it pretty hard to get excited for a unit you can't even scout. Any info at all would be much appreciated. Looks like the success rates for archers and muzzleloaders are less than desireable.

[Jburke]

I know this doesn't answer your question but I think that the way they are managing those hunts on the refuge are limiting their effectiveness.  I know there are elk there, but it's a lot more difficult to hunt it when you only get a few days to hunt and are not allowed to scout it.  I thought about applying last year but after reading their rules I decided it wasn't worth the hassle.  Good luck to you though.  I would contact the refuge and ask them for any help they might be able to give you.  Sure cant hurt to ask.   

[huntinfool81]

Thanks for the information. I've talked to the Game Warden for the area, Lenny Hahn, and he provided a bit of information. The refuge was of little help. It almost seems as though they really don't want to kill any elk. I'm going to give it a go just for the opportunity to see some good bulls. My non-hunting partner will be packing a camera. I live on the westside and am not looking forward to the long commute over, but we'll see how it goes. I normally hunt the Manashtash, and since access will be limited this year, it may be a blessing that I drew the tag. Thanks again Jburke.

[Elk77]

Hello I live not far from Turnbull and go out there allot. I've seen allot of elk, just south of the public access area. I see allot of moose, whitetial and mule deer also. Your permit must be on the west side of the main rode that splits the refuge. Just though I'd write and wish you good luck.

[quadrafire]

The refuge was of little help. It almost seems as though they really don't want to kill any elk.

I will guarantee that is the case with most of the volunteers out there. Was on a school field trip with my kid last year and brought up the subject, (then wished I hadn't)
There is a fed wildlife officer that works that area, Not sure if the one you mentioned is the one I am thiking of  (forgot his name).
I put my son in for the draw, and now glad he didn't get the tag. Sounds like it will be challenging.
Good luck if you make it over. There are alot of elk, but about 13,000 acres?? as well.and they roam onto private frequently.

[argali]

I drew that tag last yr. I never saw any employee of turnbull while I was hunting .I expected to be checked, since you have to park in designated area's.The only tb employee saw was at the bank in cheney. The scouting part was difficult w/only 1 day. I did hike down the fish lake trail trying to get a better lay of the land. You will see lots of elk,not hard to find, just hard to get close w/ a bow! I think a treestand may be a option? Good luck Justin

[dscubame]

Sweet Tag.  Good luck!  You get to go where few are allowed.  The walk in the refuge would be worth getting excited for in itself.