Elk Hunt

[nkybuck]

I'm doing research on a 2010 Montana elk hunt. My cousin who is 63 and not in good health is going also. So treestand hunting is our choice. He went to Fort Musselshell outfitters 3 yrs ago. I found another outfitter in the same area Cottonwood Outfitters does any one have any experience with these out fitters or know someone who does. I'm just trying to do my homework and make a good choice.

[bowman]

I would PM MTShooter she lives ou there and may have heard something on them

[royden]

Hmmmm...

I am assuming a hunt in the missouri breaks, but perhaps in the sweetgrass hills, the bear paws, or the snowies? the missouri breaks went to a draw only tag for archery 2-3 years ago, with each year getting fewer permits available. Upshot is harder to get a tag, but in a few years it should be better hunting. Rifle hunters have had a drawing there for years, so to be fair FWP made archery a draw tag also. IF that is where you are going I would suggest a reputable guide and ask them pointed questions about how the elk hunting as changed over the last 5 years in the breaks. The breaks are getting to be hard to hunt; a guide (or hunter) who really knows their elk is gonna pay off big time, cause the elk are there but hiding.

I personally only have experience with an outfitter out of the N-central part of the state - black creek, or black willow, or black something (I met him while working here and was really impressed ... $$$ perhaps, but quality). Other than that I am a died-in-the-wool, seat of the pants and two shank mares elk hunter.

Sounds like fun, let me know if I can help more....

rc

[nkybuck]

I'm sure as it draws closer I'll be bugging you about gear and other details.

[royden]

;D gear ... How much do you want to carry

[madoktor1]

I know when my boss goes to New Mexico, he packs light because his elk hunts involve a lot of hiking and climbing just to get to his stand.

[mtshooter]

There are several things you are going to need to do long before you head this way. You are going to have to deal with the altitude difference regardless of how you plan to hunt. The air is thin out here ;D

You will also want to pack for all weather conditions, it can snow at anytime of year, we just had a snow storm here a week ago

[royden]

packing light is not my style I am prepared for most any emergency shy of a broken back It just doesn't pay to be underprepared when you are in that kind of country. At the same time I pick gear that is multi functional so I don't have a lot of stuff.

[Deleted]

IMO I'd call the outfitter you're looking at and ask THEM for references most will give you some.Although they may be from the 'fitter, you'd be suprised the things you can learn.
Just my thoughts.
Ster

[nkybuck]

I've spoken to references and we're going with Cottonwood outfitters. I can't wait I'm already counting the days.