Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 05:22:59 PM
If we got drawn our plan would be to hire an Outfitter for a drop camp. Given anyone’s experience, how far of a horseback ride would you want to get away from the roads? I’d say a 5-6 mile ride would be all he could handle given the issues with blood flow to his feet. Once at camp, assuming we get dropped in the heart of elk country, what’s the likelihood of being able to call a bull within .5-1 mile from camp? Do most drop camps setup a couple miles out of the good areas or could a guy get put right into elk given this scenario? Any recommendations on Outfitters, drop camps, do’s or don’t would be greatly appreciated. There’s plenty of post on Peaches Ridge but this scenario is a bit different.
Thank you in advance for your input, I appreciate it!
Post by: rtspring on May 06, 2018, 05:31:40 PM
Rtspring
Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 05:48:30 PM
Post by: teanawayslayer on May 06, 2018, 05:54:37 PM
Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 06:00:40 PM
Post by: rtspring on May 06, 2018, 06:08:44 PM
Wow, doesn’t get much better than that. Even given his mobility issues? We’d really like to get off the main trail and figured with the issue at-hand perhaps horseback would be the best bet?
Plenty of great spots he could access without major hiking issues or using a horse. Remember, for the muzzy guys the bulls are still screaming...
Post by: Stein on May 06, 2018, 06:28:06 PM
Second, if you are away from roads and trails, you are in tough country. Very steep and/or very thick woods.
Those tags are good in that it is easy to have areas to yourself. People are spread out with very few obvious areas with several groups. Very easy to day hunt close or moderate distances from roads and an easier camp at night.
Good luck, hard tags to draw.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 06:57:33 PM
Post by: Magnum_Willys on May 06, 2018, 07:04:09 PM
Post by: CarbonHunter on May 06, 2018, 07:06:57 PM
Post by: Naches Sportsman on May 06, 2018, 07:13:07 PM
Too early to tell what kind of restrictions may be put in place for trails in the burn scar until the forest circus can put boots on the ground. No doubt there is trail damage and trees down. Not very scenic when most of the wilderness is burnt.
Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 07:22:18 PM
All we ever hunt anymore is Idaho; actually have hunted N Idaho elk the past 25 years straight. I started putting in for WA when I was hunting both states pretty hard but to be I haven’t stepped foot in a WA unit in over a decade. I, like most, feel committed to the points game in hopes someday Lady Luck strikes.
Post by: CarbonHunter on May 06, 2018, 07:41:17 PM
All good info, thank you very much.
All we ever hunt anymore is Idaho; actually have hunted N Idaho elk the past 25 years straight. I started putting in for WA when I was hunting both states pretty hard but to be I haven’t stepped foot in a WA unit in over a decade. I, like most, feel committed to the points game in hopes someday Lady Luck strikes.
If you already hunt Idaho why not go for Sawtooth if your considering hiring a guide? Same cost way better hunt.
If you are lucky enough to draw a peaches tag just hunt from a base camp. No need for an outfitter. If you want a backcountry experience, get it in Idaho.
Post by: Karl Blanchard on May 06, 2018, 07:49:33 PM
Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 07:53:02 PM
Post by: acrocker on May 06, 2018, 07:57:24 PM
If I draw again, I would love to get on horseback and get away from the crowds, I think it would make a world of difference. One thing I did see, though, was wolf tracks - lots of them. Followed a pack of about 5 or 6 up the trail to Blowout Mtn, right on the PCT in the snow, clear as day... No wonder we didn't find any elk...
Post by: eliandsky on May 06, 2018, 08:02:18 PM
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Twispriver on May 06, 2018, 08:51:16 PM
Post by: deerlick on May 06, 2018, 08:57:01 PM
Post by: Hoythunter on May 06, 2018, 09:18:20 PM
Post by: Mr Mykiss on May 06, 2018, 10:02:22 PM
1. You don’t wanna know what the odds are to draw that tag
2. Hopefully you get those tags
3. The psychosis of the peaches elk crew runs deep and they’re good peeps to the core, they will put you and cuz on bulls.
4. End of story...AND there’s no way that an outfitter would be more fun to hunt with than those guys!!
Post by: Skyvalhunter on May 07, 2018, 05:25:54 AM
Post by: gasman on May 08, 2018, 07:03:14 AM
BUT, if a drop camp or guided hunt is what your after, here's my :twocents:
Chinook class outfitters can get a camp you want. Drop you off and pick you up any of units in the area.
White Pass outfitters is also another, but don't know if they drop camp in Peaches area, Rimrock and Bumping, yes. ... and only heard good things about them.
If your looking for guided,
Rugged Class Outfitters is where I would spend my money. Ty Brown knows that unit like no other and is a stand up guy :tup: Jerry and Robin are great guys and can call elk like no other......
Good luck on the draw :hello:
Post by: Hoythunter on May 08, 2018, 11:09:38 AM
Post by: Duckhunter14 on May 08, 2018, 12:11:48 PM
All Idaho is DIY, no need to hire a guide. WA is a totally different story. In summary due to his limitations scouting would be extremely difficult. In the event we got drawn we’d rely on help getting us into the country we need to be. Trust me, my cousin was born and raised in MT, dad was an Outfitter, and he’s use to busting his ass. This handicap has turned his world upside down when it comes to hunting style so we’re simply trying to maximize the opportunity given his disability.
If you hunt with any success on public ground in Idaho you wont have any issue finding elk during the heart of the rut in Peaches. Like was mentioned before. You don't need a guide. There are people on here that can help. If you're wanting just the pack in style experience then by all means go that route. But I would think you could be picky with that tag and be able to hunt within a mile of spots to park while still having a comfortable camp to rest at night for him. :twocents: Good luck in the draw. Glad to hear he kicked his cancer!
Post by: Hoythunter on June 26, 2018, 08:17:43 PM
Since my original post I’ve had the chance to correspond with some knowledgeable folks, can’t believe how many pm’s I recd even before the draw. In summary I
we’re leaning towards either hauling our camper over for base camp or curious if the Forest Service has any rentals...or anyone know of a close in cabin for rent? Due to my cousins post-chemo nerve issues, it would be best if we had access to fresh ice on a daily basis to soak his feet once, if not twice per day. The drop camp would’ve worked due to the close proximity of cold running creek water.
Anyways, a huge thank you goes out to the help I’ve already received and hopefully the pointers to come. We each had 13 pts so feel very blessed. Looking forward to a fantastic experience of being in the woods for 9 days,
Post by: bobcat on June 26, 2018, 08:47:15 PM
Post by: Wingin it on June 26, 2018, 09:00:32 PM
Post by: fishngamereaper on June 26, 2018, 09:05:05 PM
Post by: elkrack on June 26, 2018, 09:05:32 PM
Post by: bowhunterforever on June 26, 2018, 09:38:06 PM
Looks like you need to get in touch with RT! Congrats on the draw and good luck the hunt :tup::yeah: :tup:
Post by: Magnum_Willys on June 26, 2018, 09:42:55 PM
Squaw Rock Resort has cabins, and is close. I've stayed there quite a few times over the years.
Good grub, affordable and BronYrAur Brewpub not that far down the hwy with great pizza too. Whats not to like!
Post by: gasman on June 26, 2018, 10:05:45 PM
Can always restock at Whistling Jack, Gold Creek, or Squaw Rock.
Glad you got drawn, have fun on your hunt :tup:
Post by: Hoythunter on June 27, 2018, 09:22:25 AM
Hunting camp and having a big ice chest stocked with ice just for soaking his feet, not hard to do at all....
Can always restock at Whistling Jack, Gold Creek, or Squaw Rock.
Glad you got drawn, have fun on your hunt :tup:
That would be ideal, just making sure we explore any and all options. Thanks for the well wishes, looking forward to spending 9 days in God’s country!
Post by: huntnut26 on June 27, 2018, 04:20:41 PM
Post by: Gonehuntin01 on June 28, 2018, 07:20:36 AM
Post by: Hoythunter on June 28, 2018, 07:27:22 AM
What a great story and congrats to you guys. People on here are just amazing and what makes this site great. Good luck to you guys. I hope to be able to follow you guys on here for your hunt. I am sure you will make it a memorable one.
Thank you! Perhaps this tag was meant to be? Whatever be the case we’re both humbled and feel lucky. Now it’s time to put boots on the ground and learn as much as we can. We’re both very greatful for the PM’s and advice received this far.
Post by: WSU on June 28, 2018, 07:39:39 AM
Also, that is a killer tag! There should be lots of fires up bulls fairly close to the road!
Post by: BeerBugler on June 28, 2018, 08:11:54 AM
Post by: Stein on June 28, 2018, 08:59:21 AM
That unit is easy to access from many different places and tons of good habitat within 1-2 miles reasonable walk from roads. i would have a central camp that I could drive to a dozen spots within 45 minutes and be mobile unless you are really looking for a traditional backcountry experience.
Post by: kevinc on June 29, 2018, 09:29:31 PM
Post by: kevinc on June 29, 2018, 09:35:22 PM
Post by: scoutdog346 on July 01, 2018, 12:59:20 PM
My cousin had a long and lengthy battle with cancer a few years back and came out on top. He went through months and months of chemo and other treatments and with Gods helping hand and determination he’s currently cancer free. That said, one of the major side effects with all the treatment is mobility in his feet. He can’t hike long distances but can get up and down rugged terrain, slow and steady. He and I were visiting about the possibility of teaming up and applying as a 2 person group for muzzy elk in the Peaches Ridge area. He’s accumulated (like many others) a boat load of points and I’m sitting on 13. Let’s skip forward and assume we get drawn; I’m well aware of the odds game so lets keep this discussion to the question at hand.
If we got drawn our plan would be to hire an Outfitter for a drop camp. Given anyone’s experience, how far of a horseback ride would you want to get away from the roads? I’d say a 5-6 mile ride would be all he could handle given the issues with blood flow to his feet. Once at camp, assuming we get dropped in the heart of elk country, what’s the likelihood of being able to call a bull within .5-1 mile from camp? Do most drop camps setup a couple miles out of the good areas or could a guy get put right into elk given this scenario? Any recommendations on Outfitters, drop camps, do’s or don’t would be greatly appreciated. There’s plenty of post on Peaches Ridge but this scenario is a bit different.
Thank you in advance for your input, I appreciate it!
Post by: Hoythunter on July 01, 2018, 02:34:00 PM
Post by: Brena.Hunter on July 10, 2018, 09:29:13 PM
Post by: scoutdog346 on July 25, 2018, 08:30:16 PM
All good info, thank you very much.
All we ever hunt anymore is Idaho; actually have hunted N Idaho elk the past 25 years straight. I started putting in for WA when I was hunting both states pretty hard but to be I haven’t stepped foot in a WA unit in over a decade. I, like most, feel committed to the points game in hopes someday Lady Luck strikes.
If you already hunt Idaho why not go for Sawtooth if your considering hiring a guide? Same cost way better hunt.
If you are lucky enough to draw a peaches tag just hunt from a base camp. No need for an outfitter. If you want a backcountry experience, get it in Idaho.
Post by: Hoythunter on August 07, 2018, 03:22:48 PM
I feel like I have a great knowledge base. That said, I’m going stir crazy staring at google earth!! Hopefully the entire State will see some moisture soon, Woods are so dang dry it’s spooky.
Thanks to everyone who’s helped this far. I look forward to providing updates as I continue along the the Peaches journey, in addition to the two other epic tags I have this fall.
Post by: Stein on August 07, 2018, 03:26:23 PM
Good luck and have fun, wish I had the tag.
Post by: Hoythunter on August 12, 2018, 06:55:59 PM
I plan on calling the Ranger District tmrw for guidance on UTV laws as I’m having a difficult time interpreting the rules. As example, if we camped down low and i wanted to travel a mixed use road on my UTV (permitted use), if I have a licensed UTV can I travel the forest service road to gain access to the mixed use trail, or does the Forest Service expect me to trailer up? On a few of the mixed use roads it dang near takes a Jeep to gain access, the thought of trailering my UTV is out of the question.
As always thanks for following along, this is going to be an amazing experience from beginning to end!
Post by: scoutdog346 on August 26, 2018, 12:16:59 AM
I 2nd that. You could pretty allmost guarantee a rag horn just road hunting with that tag. There r places in that unit you could be in wilderness within 200 yards as a crow fliesAll good info, thank you very much.
All we ever hunt anymore is Idaho; actually have hunted N Idaho elk the past 25 years straight. I started putting in for WA when I was hunting both states pretty hard but to be I haven’t stepped foot in a WA unit in over a decade. I, like most, feel committed to the points game in hopes someday Lady Luck strikes.
If you already hunt Idaho why not go for Sawtooth if your considering hiring a guide? Same cost way better hunt.
If you are lucky enough to draw a peaches tag just hunt from a base camp. No need for an outfitter. If you want a backcountry experience, get it in Idaho.
Post by: MADMAX on August 26, 2018, 05:07:12 AM
Post by: hunterofelk on August 26, 2018, 08:57:01 AM
Post by: Hoythunter on September 25, 2018, 05:58:10 PM
and I head out tomorrow to setup camp and refresh our memories from roads traveled earlier this summer.
In all honestly I couldn’t have scripted a better experience thus far between the members I’ve met via PM’s and telephone calls, in addition to the excitement of getting familiar with a new area. I’ll thank people specifically when I return with a final post but I’m still shocked on how complete strangers reached out and helped me along the way for this hunt. I’m very greatful and look forward to returning the favor in the near future.
Stay tuned...
Post by: teanawayslayer on September 25, 2018, 06:01:56 PM
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on September 25, 2018, 06:05:08 PM
Post by: PlateauNDN on September 25, 2018, 06:15:30 PM
Trust me its never that easy
:chuckle: it is sometimes.
Post by: deerhunter_98520 on September 25, 2018, 06:35:49 PM
You can do this.👍
You forgot this guy :chuckle:
(https://s.yimg.com/lo/api/res/1.2/GWrWjG.vLXk84qCBRdj3aA--~B/YXBwaWQ9eWlzZWFyY2g7Zmk9Zml0O2dlPTAwNjYwMDtncz0wMEEzMDA7aD0yNjA7dz00NDY-/https://leadertank.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/waterboy-you-can-do-it.jpg.cf.jpg)
Goodluck on your hunt, can't wait to see pics :IBCOOL:
Post by: Hoythunter on September 25, 2018, 06:56:16 PM
Post by: CedarPants on September 25, 2018, 07:11:26 PM
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on September 25, 2018, 07:34:20 PM
Looking forward to sharing pics....if I can ever figure out how to upload via iPhone :bash: Hopefully that’s a problem I’ll have. Thanks for all the well wishes.
Screen shot then post.👍
Post by: slowhand on September 25, 2018, 10:57:08 PM
Post by: Hoythunter on October 04, 2018, 05:31:07 PM
Post by: cougforester on October 04, 2018, 06:04:29 PM
Post by: Hoythunter on October 07, 2018, 06:54:15 PM
A sincere “thank you” is owed to many members on this site. I got the opportunity to learn first-hand the quality character of a few members as they helped my cousin and I with this hunt. Specifically, thank you to Sabotloader for all your help in getting me lined out on this muzzleloader thing; you’re a wealth of information. I followed your recommendation on many specifics such as the gun, powder, peep, etc. The Knight UL is a shooting machine.
Also, thank you to both RTspring and fishngamereaper. Both of you not only took the time to correspond via multiple PM’s but also phone conversations. Fishngamereaper: I was pulling for you during your archery hunt and look forward to meeting you someday up in N. Idaho where it sounds we both hunt the same area, talk about a small world.
The hunt itself was a blast. Fantastic weather and lots of action with bugling bulls, what more can you ask for? Sharing this hunt with both my cousin and dad made it all the more special. Bulls were on fire the first 4 days before going radio silent after a big wind / cold front moved in mid-week. We went from having multiple opportunities on bulls the first few days to literally nothing. The bulls flat shut up for the second half of the hunt. My cousin passed on a few small bulls the first few days but unfortunately never connected after 8 hard days of hunting. Despite his mobility challenges he did awesome.
I connected with this bull opening morning at 10 yards. He came in on a string. My dad was there with me so I couldn’t have scripted a better outcome....other than his final resting place. He died directly on a yellow jackets nest! Hundreds upon hundreds of them pissed the flat off. Talk about a rodeo. Hence the reason why I don’t have field photos. The rest of the day was spent winching it outta the bottom of the canyon we chased him down into.
In summary, this was a fantastic hunt. The entire experience starting with learning a new area, meeting new people, and spending 8 glorious days in elk country far exceeded the thrill of the kill itself. Couldn’t have asked for a better “Quality Hunt” experience.
I head out for my Idaho elk hunt in 2 weeks, time to re-charge my batteries so I can maximizing the opportunity on that hunt as well.
Thanks for following along and all the advise / post contributions along the way.
Post by: trophyhunt on October 07, 2018, 07:00:54 PM
Post by: Mfowl on October 07, 2018, 07:06:45 PM
Post by: full choke on October 07, 2018, 07:13:36 PM
Glad it turned out to be a quality hunt for you!
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on October 07, 2018, 07:32:53 PM
Congrats everyone on your bulls. :tup:
Post by: Hoythunter on October 07, 2018, 07:36:40 PM
Bbbbeeeeeesss, OMG I’ve never thought of that happing. I’m somewhat allergic to them🤭. I wouldn’t have been able to retrieve it, I bet @rtspring would come get it for me though.🤣
Congrats everyone on your bulls. :tup:
Thank you. Yeah the bee thing was crazy. I love taking time and getting good field photos but we had a “situation” on our hands.
Post by: Wingin it on October 07, 2018, 07:40:49 PM
Post by: elkrack on October 07, 2018, 08:25:32 PM
Bees are the worst.
Post by: fishngamereaper on October 08, 2018, 06:02:12 AM
Post by: Odell on October 08, 2018, 08:22:03 AM
Bbbbeeeeeesss, OMG I’ve never thought of that happing. I’m somewhat allergic to them🤭. I wouldn’t have been able to retrieve it, I bet @rtspring would come get it for me though.🤣
Congrats everyone on your bulls. :tup:
Thank you. Yeah the bee thing was crazy. I love taking time and getting good field photos but we had a “situation” on our hands.
I bet! man I would not want to deal with that. Congrats on a great bull and trip!
Post by: Hoythunter on October 08, 2018, 11:54:06 AM
Bbbbeeeeeesss, OMG I’ve never thought of that happing. I’m somewhat allergic to them🤭. I wouldn’t have been able to retrieve it, I bet @rtspring would come get it for me though.🤣
Congrats everyone on your bulls. :tup:
Thank you. Yeah the bee thing was crazy. I love taking time and getting good field photos but we had a “situation” on our hands.
I bet! man I would not want to deal with that. Congrats on a great bull and trip!
Thanks, all! I’ll admit, it took quite the brainstorming session to figure out what exactly to do with the cloud of bees hovering all around. In hindsight I wish one of us video me as I worked to get the chainsaw winch chain around his head / horns. I wanted nothing to do with those bees and they weren’t too happy about their new house guest. What are the odds?!?! Glad that episode is behind us...
Post by: Birdguy on October 08, 2018, 08:24:33 PM
Post by: Brushbuster on October 08, 2018, 08:37:00 PM