RichardB22

Greetings all. I found out last week I drew an early archery bull elk tag for 7e. This was my first year applying and I am lucky to get drawn. I am coming here for information on how to scout elk in their habitat and learn their patterns. I am a new western hunter and looking forward to scouting the unit I got drawn for. Any advice on how to scout would be great.

I went to wide world of maps in Phoenix and picked up a map. It’s decent for finding water and trails but the topography is terrible it doesn’t show elevation numbers. I just got back from a scouting trip today up on the west side of the unit. Most all access roads are still closed even though I saw civilian vehicles opening the gates and driving through then locking them back up after they went through. I was puzzled by this. My wife and I hiked a 10 mile loop up and around the herchdeffer hill area because access restricted all other areas. We saw a decent amount of old elk Scat on the sides of the slopes. Saw one rub that was from last year and that was it. I plan on taking a lot more trips before the season starts. I didn’t know they closed access roads up there I guess it would be a mess with people getting stuck. My next trip will be focusing near the bear jaw trail head. I want to do things differently and find overlooked hard to get to areas. I am excited for this hunt and I am not afraid to hike and scout.

Sweet deal that was really helpful info. I appreciate the help. Also does anyone have any insight on pre rut behavior for elk?

I just have to work on calling for sure. I hope the rut is active during the hunt I’m on.

I also prefer a physical map when I’m out in the field I will definitely be ordering from flatline. I have a trip planned for the beginning of April for scouting. I hope to find and locate habitat they use for summer range. My hunt is September 9-22.

Sweet deal thank you for the response. Do you have any suggestions for the map that I will have to get. I heard of a place in Phoenix that makes them waterproof and last for a while. I already have on x maps and base maps for e scouting.