3 RESIDENT Preference Points for elk in 2012

[Walleye]

I'm looking at any season in 57/58, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th in 20, MZ in 12/24/23, MZ in 33,23,24 and lastly unit 49 for 2nd, 3rd, or 4th seasons.

I haven't narrowed it down much, but I should be able to draw most of these tags. What I'm wondering is if anyone has any experience in these units or could give me a push in the right direction.

I'm 30 yo, in good shape as I do a half marathon each spring and multiple 14ers each summer. I'd prefer to car camp, DIY, and I'd just be looking for a decent bull(4x4 or better), although really any legal would do!

Thanks!
Brian

[Walleye]

anyone????

[nwwa huner]

I don't know anything about these units but I drew a muzzleloader tag last year and had a better experience because it was in the rut. I would say the weather in the ml season would be nice, you can actively backpack anywhere without snow and be in the rut. With 2-4th seasons you may get migration bc of snow or pressure to private and no rut. Good luck

[bowhuntress]

there are LOTS of elk in 12/24/23 just not very many of them are big. Should be a good hunt and you may have to get off the beaten path to find them. Weather will make a difference on how far down the mountain they are and where they are located but ML is a great time to be out hunting the rut! Good luck this fall.

[Walleye]

I'd like to hunt MZ in 12/24/23, but after hunting 1st season there last year with a cow tag I didn't see any 6x6 bulls out of the 15-20 bulls I saw in pickups and on horses. That being said I will likely hunt a limited unit during rifle 1st season or during a late season. While I'm not expecting a huge bull in these units it is fun knowing the possibility exists. And no antler point restriction increases the odds of success and bringing home meat.

[In God We Trust]

Unit 49 has some big bulls. If you can draw a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th rifle tag look at the lower portions of the Buffalo Peaks wilderness area. I would monitor snow levels as the hunt gets close and then call a wildlife biologist and pick his brain.

[Walleye]

49 was actually my 2nd choice of these units. I put in for a late season front range tag.
Wish I could hunt them both though!

[In God We Trust]

You won't be able to draw 49 as a second choice. Bull tags are 1st choice only.

[Walleye]

I realize that. I meant it was my second choice out of my 1st choice options. I put in last year for MZ in 12/24/23, but didn't draw. This year my 2nd choice will be cow elk 12/23/24 1st rifle. Hopefully ES 4th season leftover if it comes to that.