Late Archery Partner or Help or Advise?

[UpperleftPNW]

Just confirmed I will be taking a new job so I will have the around Dec 3rd - the 11th off and want to make it out for some late season Archery Elk.

I have only been hunting for 2 seasons but I have made it out into the woods quite a few times in those 2 years, mostly for deer and turkey. I got my first deer this year with my bow.

I was planning on just doing a 1 day scout / walk around with my bow and hope I get lucky this year just to get my feet wet in the Elk hunting world. But now that I have a some time off I am thinking about getting a bit more serious about spending some time in the woods to find some elk.

I have purchased my Elk tag but I haven't declared East or West yet so either works for me. I have never been out Elk hunting so I am happy to just receive some advice on tactics or general areas to scout. I would also be open to hunting with a partner or small group if anyone cares to have me tag along. I am 30, live near Renton WA, I have a Chevy 2500 4x4 with some good tires, pop up truck camper with a heater, utility trailer, and plenty of firewood. I am an ethical hunter and would be happy to share meat if I harvest an animal while hunting with a group or individual.

[huntnut26]

Look at the open units both east and west for elk that gives you the best opportunity to take an elk and start there. I hunt the east side and all areas I hunt are spike only this year unless you drew a antlerless tag so your chance of harvest is slim not impossible but very slim. Once you decide on an area you might get some help for people that know the area. Hunting takes a few seasons to truly learn an area and how the animals use it. More pressured areas (most of Washington) spend time watching the animals and how they react/escape the hunting pressure and you will increase your odds of success by getting in those areas early and sticking it out. If I can be of more help I'd be glad to. Best of luck!