2011 muzzleloader around the corner!

[buckmaster303]

2 weeks out from early muzzle hunt I'll be hunting Gifford pinchoff anybody hunted out there before I'm new to the post and just looking for a little info I have seen a few herd but no huge bulls? Thanks

[HoofsandWings]

You should have three or four hundred of your closest friends there along side you.
Ask them.
Mushroom pickers out in force in the forest. They may be a good source.

BTW. Season opens the 24th

[bobcat]

Which unit in the Gifford Pinchot NF? I would assume  513?

[buckmaster303]

I was thinking 503 it's open for any elk as well.

[BoomWhop]

I will be solo hunting in 513 for the whole week.  (along with the other 300+)  Wahoo better than work.  

[bobcat]

I was thinking 503 it's open for any elk as well.

Not any elk but "3 pt minimum or antlerless". So basically anything but a spike. (I've never seen a 2 point elk)

GMU 503 is not in the National Forest. I've never hunted it so I can't help much there. You could also try 652 or 654. They are closer if you live in Graham.

[buckmaster303]

Yes I live in Graham. I've hunted Gifford Pinchot last year in a certain area and we ran through a couple herds just wondering if they might still be in the rut a little? What do you think?

[bobcat]

My guess is that most of the cows will have been bred already but you might have luck getting a bull interested if you blow on your cow call just right. 

[SkookumHntr]

Im getting pumped!!!

[buckmaster303]

I am getting super pumped can't wait to get out and push the timber! Going out now to try and call in a bull for my buddy who hunts archery wish me luck I'll take pics and hopefully of a bull he got!

[HoofsandWings]

So we are talking elk not deer. Bugling should still work. They were bugling befor the opener last year. They will be near water. North facing slopes will have better food.

[buckmaster303]

Ok thak you for the information I'm pretty sure last year I heard them still talking the first week of October. Will have to see though. 

[cjensen]

Lots of people say it is better the first week of October than during bow season.  Just depends on the area that you're in and how you hit it.   The bulls should still be with the cows...

[buckmaster303]

My own opinion is I think the rut is better the first week of October hopeing to be able to call in a nice bull anything 3pt or better is a trophy to me considering it will be my first elk.