Bugs in the highcountry

[RUTTIN]

Just made a scouting trip to my elk hunting area, and noticed the bugs were really bad this year. I figured at 10500 ft they wouldn't be that bad. The elk seem to still be in the area, but if I were an elk I would have to find some where else to live, they about drove me nuts! Going to have to remember my face mask next week to keep the bugs at bay when I set on the wallows. If anything the bugs have made the elk wallow more. I guess covering your self in mud is one way to keep them off. Have any of you noticed that the bugs are a lot worse this year?

[Bitterroot Bulls]

I was just thinking about how there seemed to be less bugs this year in Western MT. They must have all headed your way!

[sjsmallfield]

There are a ton out in the high country here in CA this year. The worst I've ever seen.

[In God We Trust]

I was scouting yesterday and they are worse than usual. i guess that comes with all of the moisture. That's funny you mentioned wallowing bulls. 6 out of 8 bull I saw yesterday were covered in mud.

[wolftalonID]

Therma-Cell Devices. Best thing since sliced bread.

[jenbickel]

Therma-Cell Devices. Best thing since sliced bread.

I've been thinking of getting a Therma-Cell but was very curious if they actually worked.. I have noticed the bugs here have been horrrrrrible!

[wolftalonID]

I wondered the same thing for a year. Finally bought one and LOVE the thing. I have used it now for three seasons both camping and hunting and backyard BBQ's. Its about wore out and I need a new one. I will not hesitate to use it. (just a word of warning...adhere to the warning not to inhale the fumes...lol) mmm mmm tasty lol. Mostly odor free, but it leaves a nasty ass taste in your mouth if you get a big ol puff of it in your face.

[jenbickel]

Lmao. That's funny! Thanks for the advice, I will try not to inhale the fumes.

[SDbowhunter]

bugs were bad where I scouted in MT but it is a grazing alotment and the bugs were mostly mosquitoes and horse Flys and I think the presence of cattle had something to do with that

[elkmtngear]

There are a ton out in the high country here in CA this year. The worst I've ever seen.

I'll second that! I find myself wearing my face mask all the time up there.

Best of Luck,
Jeff