Elk

NEW MEXICO ELK W/LANDOWNER VOUCHER
95,000 ACRES 5 DAYS 1X1 $16,900
2022 – 14 HUNTERS 14 BULLS
2021 – 12 HUNTERS 12 BULLS

This premier outfit has 18 elk permits for the ranch and they typically run 6 hunters October 1 to 5, 4 from 7 to 11, 4 on the
November 11 to 15 and 4 on the December hunt. They have managed this ranch for over 20 years.

2022 first two October hunts and both November and December hunts were 100 percent success with the top bulls going 320 to 330 and an overall average of 300 inches.

2021 they were 100 percent successful and had a good horn growth year. 4 bulls were taken in the 340 to 360 class, plenty in the 300 to 320 category and the last hunt they killed a 330 and a 328 bull.

5 day 1×1 on the first and second hunt is $16,900, third and fourth hunts are $15,500 with guaranteed license, no draw. Accommodations are a very nice comfortable ranch house built strictly for the hunters.

The outfitter gives past clients first opportunity to rebook this ranch or one of their other ranches before opening it up to new hunters. If you are interested give us a call and we can check on openings or put you on the list for an opening the following fall. Hunters fly into Albuquerque and rent a car. Hunt EKWM90.

 

COLORADO RANCHING FOR WILDLIFE
ELK $5950 W/GUARANTEED TAG
FREE RANGE PRIVATE RANCHES
HUNT SEPTEMBER TO DECEMBER

This is one of the most popular elk hunts due to such a high past success rate and not too physically demanding. These private land ranches are in the RFW program with guaranteed licenses issued from the state so there are no drawings. They can rifle hunt on these properties from early September to December 15, so the 40 plus elk hunters are spread out over an exceptionally long season. This northwest Colorado region typically produces 4 and 5 point bulls with the occasional 6 point. The elk are migrating through these properties mainly starting in early November depending on weather conditions and continuing through December. New bulls can show up daily but remember this is not a trophy hunt.

2022 finished with 38 elk hunters harvesting 31 bulls, hit and lost 2 bulls, killed 3 cows and two hunters didn’t shoot. This includes the 9 September rut hunters that killed 9 bulls.

2021 season finished with 45 hunters tagging 38 bulls, crippling two and taking a couple cows. The top two bulls grossed 290 inches. These numbers include the 8 September rut hunters that tagged 7 bulls and the unsuccessful hunter was a bowhunter and passed on bulls.

The ranches receive plus or minus 40 elk tags yearly depending on what Fish and Game allocate each spring. Most bulls taken will be a 5 point averaging in the 220 to 250 class and top bulls have reached the 270 inch category. Typically, the elk hunting gets better as the season progresses. Starting about mid-November more elk move onto the property due to pressure on nearby public land and the normal winter migration out of the high country. This is more of an agricultural landscape, wide open type of hunt where you catch groups of elk crossing the ranch.

The outfitter also offers two LATE SEPTEMBER RUT HUNTS in the high country for $5,950 for 4 days. This is a much more physically demanding hunt, typically in more mountainous terrain at higher elevations for resident elk. At press time this rut hunt was booked until 2024.

The ranch is located at about 7500 foot elevation and has good road access making the regular elk hunt not an extremely physical hunt.

4 day hunt with bunkhouse accommodations, meals, guided 2×1 and airport pickup in Hayden is included for $5,950. Pronghorn can be added to the early elk hunts for only $2,500 and the ranch produces nice bucks averaging 70 inches. HCU’s Craig Green and Cliff Graham have hunted with this outfitter. Hunt EK226.  EK226 Hunt Photos.

 

NEW MEXICO ARCHERY ELK HUNT
2022 – 12 ARCHERS 10 KILLS 2 MISSED
RIFLE 100 PERCENT AGAIN
2021 – 16 ARCHERS KILLED 15 BULLS
RIFLE 12 HUNTERS 12 BULLS
31,000 ACRE RANCH W/L.O.VOUCHER
BORDERS MESCALERO APACHE RESERVATION

This outfitter has been running hunts on a 31,000 acre private ranch that borders the Mescalero Apache Reservation and on up to the wilderness area. The terrain is fairly moderate with rolling hills and cedars, providing an excellent archery hunt along with a high success rifle season.

2022 archery season ended with 10 of the 12 bowhunters tagging bulls and the 2 unsuccessful hunters missed bulls. Top bulls were in the 280 to 290’s range.

2022 rifle the first 2 hunts in October totaling 6 hunters killed 6 bulls. November 17 to 21 hunt went 2 for 2 and December 1 to 5 went 2 for 2. Top bulls went around 325.

2021 archery finished with 15 of the 16 bow hunters tagging a bull. The only unsuccessful hunter passed on bulls.

2021 rifle season was 100 percent, best bull grossed 320 with most of the bulls in the 270 to 300 class.

Archery hunts are 5 days 1×1 $11,500. They run 4 hunts with 4 hunters per hunt, September 2 to 6, 8 to 12, 15 to 19, and 20 to 24. Rifle hunts are only 3 hunters per hunt and priced according to dates. October 1 to 5 $16,500, 7 to 11 $16,500, November 16 to 20 $12,900 and December 10 to 14 $12,900. Remember these hunts come with a landowner voucher, which guarantees you a tag, no draw, but you still need to purchase the license.

Excellent crew with superb cabin accommodations, satellite TV and all the amenities. Hunters fly into Albuquerque and rent a vehicle for the 3 hour drive. Openings are determined by the amount of repeat clientele. Call us if you are interested.  Hunt EKNO90.

 

COLORADO HORSEBACK ELK
$6000 ON 13,000 PRIVATE ACRES
2022 – 38 HUNTERS 29 BULLS
2021 – 37 HUNTERS 30 BULLS
2020 – 33 HUNTERS 26 BULLS

This private ranch is owned by the outfitter’s family in northwestern Colorado just southeast of Craig. This has been a very high success elk hunt on 5 point and small 6 point bulls. They also run an extremely high opportunity spot and stalk archery elk season.

2022 archery had 37 bowhunters kill 14 bulls, crippled and lost 19 bulls, missed 3 bulls and average shot was 25 yards or less. They killed a few good 6 points including 2 that would gross 310 to 320.

2022 first rifle 8 hunters tagged 7 bulls, including a real big 320 bull and a few good 5×5’s. Second season first half 8 hunters killed 5 bulls, missed 4, and crippled a bull. Second half of second season had 8 hunters tag 5 bulls, miss 2 and crippled a bull. Third season had 8 hunters kill 6 bulls and miss 4. Fourth season finished 6 for 6 on bulls.

2021 archery finished up with 33 archers killing 13 bulls, wounding 11 and missed 6. All shots taken were under 30 yards.

2021 first rifle 8 hunters killed 7 bulls. The unsuccessful hunter missed and crippled a bull. Second season first half went 3 for 8 and one big bull was missed. Second season second half was 6 for 7 and the unsuccessful hunter had to leave early. Third season finished 8 bulls for 8 hunters and 2 hunters also had deer tags that they filled, and one was a 181 inch buck. Fourth season had 6 hunters tag 6 bulls. Overall, for the season 37 rifle elk hunters killed 30 bulls, missed 4 and hit and lost one bull.

First rifle season is a 5 day hunt priced at $7,000 guided 2×1. Second season is split into two 4 day hunts at $5,500. Third and fourth seasons will be 5 day hunts at $6,000. Typically guides and hunters leave the cabin and horseback a 45 minute ride up the mountain to the hunting areas. Most of the hunting is spot and stalk on foot and then ride back down at the end of the day.

Accommodations are a renovated pre-1900 ranch house with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, big kitchen, living room, mud room and enclosed porch. The first rifle hunt has been 100 percent in the draw with zero points. The second and third season elk permits are sold over the counter. Fourth season elk hunters need to apply, but draw has been near 100 percent.

Bow hunts and muzzleloader are both priced at $6,500. A cripple policy is enforced on all hunts as with most outfitters. Hunters can fly into Denver and rent a car or fly into Hayden where airport pickup is included. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz has been on this ranch. Limited openings for 2023 and 2024.  Hunt EK824.  EK824 Hunt Photos.

NEW MEXICO DRAW HUNTS
ARCHERY/MUZZLELOADER/RIFLE
$6950 2X1 OR $9950 1X1

Here is a hunt that is worth applying for. New Mexico does not use a point system so everyone has the same draw opportunity if you are applying with an outfitter, which increases your odds.

This outfitter hunts a couple primitive weapon units that produce bulls as big as the Gila units, with much much better draw odds. These hunts take place in the southwestern part of New Mexico close to the Gila and a few in southcentral and southeastern New Mexico, including some rifle units. With his draw formula by putting 3 choices in top trophy units according to dates it increases your
odds to about 20% draw. He does have landowner vouchers available for a guaranteed tag, but these vary in price from $7,000 to over $10,000 depending on the unit.

With a one-time $750 deposit he will put you in the draw each year until you draw and when you do the $750 will come off the price of your hunt, so it is just a deposit on your hunt. Hunters still pay the normal New Mexico application price of $865 to the state and if unsuccessful the state keeps $89 and refunds $776 to the hunter, but the outfitter will take care of your application at no charge.

His archery and muzzleloader hunts produce most of the super bulls. HE OFFERS HUNTERS THE USE OF HIS BEST OF THE WEST LONG RANGE CUSTOM MUZZLELOADERS WITH PEEP SIGHTS ACCURATE UP TO 300 YARDS FOR $500 (New Mexico outlawed scopes starting in 2023). They shoot and kill like a rifle and are legal in these primitive weapon units.

He also offers rifle hunts in the draw or private landowner vouchers with guaranteed tags, along with youth hunts.

ARCHERY HUNTS are 6 days running from September 1 to 14 or 5 day hunts September 15 to 24. Success on archery hunts with shots at bulls typically runs close to 40 percent.

MUZZLELOADER HUNTS are 5 days, October 17-21, 24-28 and late season November 21-25. Success on muzzleloader hunts has been running about 80 percent on kills.

RIFLE HUNTS are 5 days and vary from mid-October into early November with success running near 100 percent but are much more difficult to draw and landowner vouchers are expensive.

All elk hunts are priced at $6,950 2×1 or $9,950 1×1 plus 8% sales tax. Archery hunts can be extended at $750 per day. $1,000 cripple policy donation for a deserving youth hunter if you want to continue hunting.

Accommodations could vary from a lodge, bed/breakfast, to possibly wall tents with floors or a spike camp, depending on the tag drawn. In some areas accommodations can be upgraded for an additional cost.

Hunters fly into Albuquerque and rent a car for the 1 1/2 hour drive. Draw deadline is March 15. HCU’s Cliff Graham and Bob Wodzisz have visited this outfit.  Hunt EK820.

UTAH CWMU RIFLE ELK RUT HUNT
RIFLE $17,200 1X1 5 DAYS
2022 – 11 HUNTERS 11 BULLS
2021 – 11 HUNTERS 11 BULLS

This 9,000 acre premier ranch located in northeastern Utah has 11 elk tags per year and success has run at or near 100 percent on some great bulls. The outfitter only takes 3 or 4 hunters per week, September 7 to 12, 18 to 23 and October 5 to 10 giving the ranch a rest between hunts.

2022 was another good year for this ranch producing 11 bulls for all 11 rifle hunters. Averaging around 315 gross score and several bulls were taken in the 330 to 340 class.

2021 produced 11 bulls for 11 hunters, including a couple bulls in the 340 plus class and several were taken in the 320 to 330 category.

5 day hunts guided 1×1 are priced at $17,200 and includes landowner voucher with very nice ranch house accommodations right on the ranch.

The outfitter gives past clients first opportunity to rebook this ranch or one of their other ranches before opening it up to new hunters. Call us if you are interested. Hunters fly into SLC and rent a car.  Hunt EKG90.

WE CANNOT STRESS THE IMPORTANCE ENOUGH OF ACQUIRING WYOMING PREFERENCE POINTS FROM JULY 1 TO OCTOBER 31 BY GOING TO THE WYOMING WEBSITE https://wgfd.wyo.gov AND FOLLOW THE SIMPLE INSTRUCTIONS TO PURCHASE ELK $52, MULE DEER $41, PRONGHORN $31 PREFERENCE POINTS TO USE IN FUTURE YEARS. HCU WORKS WITH SEVERAL RANCHES THAT CURRENTLY REQUIRE ONLY 4 POINTS TO DRAW QUALITY ELK HUNTS AT A VERY REASONABLE PRICE. 

 

SE WYOMING RIFLE RUT ELK HUNT
BULLS BEND RANCH $8000
4 POINTS MINIMUM TO DRAW A TAG
2022 – 4 RIFLE HUNTERS 4 BULLS
2021 – 5 RIFLE HUNTERS 4 BULLS
2020 – 5 RIFLE HUNTERS 5 BULLS

This 9200 acre private ranch located in southeastern Wyoming Unit 3 is in a general draw area so we expect 4 points minimum to draw the special tag or 5 points for the general tag. This unit allows rifle bull hunts from mid-September into early October during the rut.

2022 he only took 4 rifle hunters, and they killed 4 bulls averaging a little over 300 inches, best bull went a whopping 337.

2021 he took 5 rifle hunters, and they killed 4 bulls averaging just shy of 300 inches. The unsuccessful hunter hit a monster 350 type bull three times, but he ended up getting away.

2020 he had 5 rifle hunters tag 5 bulls, 4 over 300 and best went 330, smallest bull was a 260 class.

5 day hunts starting September 15 and continuing into early October during the rut are $8,000 guided 1×1 plus a 5% lodging/meals tax and includes rustic cabin accommodations in a scenic spot on the ranch and meals.

The key here is to acquire preference points starting July 1 to October 31 so you can acquire the elk tag in a future January drawing. Go to the web and look up https://wgfd.wyo.gov and follow the simple instructions to purchase the elk preference point currently priced around $52. Buy it this coming July until October 31. This outfitter also has mule deer and pronghorn hunts and if you are interested you should purchase points for deer at $41 and pronghorn for $31. Be smart and accumulate points so you can draw a quality hunt at a reasonable price down the road. If you have problems call us and we can assist you.

Draw deadline is January 31. Hunters fly into Denver and rent a vehicle for the 3 hour drive. Book ahead now for 2024 or 2025. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz has been on this ranch. Hunt EK2643.

 

SE COLORADO BULLS $8000
RIFLE, BOW OR MUZZLELOADER

This hunt takes place on private property in southeast Colorado just north of Raton, New Mexico. The outfitter only takes up to about 6 rifle hunters per year.

2022 archery finished with 3 of the 6 bowhunters tagging bulls.

First season rifle all 4 elk hunters tagged bulls in the 275 to 300 class, but it had been a dry year and quite a few of the bulls were broken up. Second season he only had one elk hunter and he missed a big bull. Third season he had 2 combination elk/deer hunters, and the elk were on a kill fee, neither scored on elk but did kill deer.

2021 he took 2 muzzleloader hunters, and they killed one 6×6. He had 3 bowhunters and they killed a small 6×6 and hit and lost a bull.

First rifle season he had 3 hunters tag 3 bulls in the 260 to 290 class. Second season they went 3 for 4 on mule deer scoring in the 160’s. Third season he took one elk hunter and he passed.

Elk hunts are 5 days guided 2×1 is $8,000 or $9,000 1×1. Muzzleloader season is September 10 to 20 and hunters need 2 points to draw a tag. Colorado allows in-line muzzleloaders, but no scopes or sabots. Archery season is September 1 to 30 and tags are over the counter. First rifle hunt is a draw but has been 100 percent success; second and third season tags are over the counter. Mule deer also need applied for but should draw and he also has some deer vouchers. Deer hunts are $5,000 for 5 days 2×1 or $6,000 1×1.

Basic ranch house accommodations with meals and hunters fly into Colorado Springs or Denver and rent a car for the 2 or 3 hour drive. April 1 draw deadline. Reserve now for 2024 or 2025. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz has been on this hunt.  Hunt EK554.

 

UTAH SEPTEMBER RIFLE RUT HUNT
20,000 FREE RANGE PRIVATE ACRES
$19,500 CWMU GUARANTEED TAG

The outfitters family owns this 20,000 acre ranch located in southeastern Utah, which is in the coveted Controlled Wildlife Management Unit Program (CWMU) and are allocated 15 bull elk tags each year determined by the Fish and Wildlife Department. The program allows them to start rifle hunting September 1 until the end of October. They typically run all their elk hunters in September to the first week of October, so everyone gets to hunt during the rut. 5 day hunts guided 1×1 are $19,500 plus license and tax. Nice accommodations plus good home cooked meals and older hunters can physically do this hunt.

2022 the 15 hunters killed 11 bulls, crippled and lost 3 and a hunter passed. Best bull went 348 and overall average was 320 plus.

2021 had all 15 hunters tag a bull. Top bull went 362 down to 310 with an overall average at 330.

2020 finished with all 15 hunters killing a bull. Top bull grossed 360 and a couple more in the 350’s, averaging in the 325 to 330 class.

     This outfitter puts on a top shelf hunt for trophy animals in a beautiful setting. Hunters fly into Grand Junction, where they rent a car, and arrive at the ranch early afternoon and start hunting that evening. Next openings are in 2024 and 2025. HCU’s Craig Green has hunted this ranch.  Hunt EKGE72.

 

NEW MEXICO ELK HUNT $14,500
INCLUDES LANDOWNER VOUCHER
2022 – 6 HUNTERS 6 BULLS
2021 – 6 HUNTERS 6 BULLS

This 12,000 acre ranch located in northeastern N.M. only takes 2 hunters per hunt on a total of 3 hunts per year. The terrain is not all that physical and can be a fun place for a couple buddies or family members. The hunters stay in a nice little house on the ranch with the rancher’s wife providing the meals. Taking only 2 hunters on the ranch at a time makes this a special personal experience.

2022 the 6 hunters had taken 6 bulls and the top bull grossed in the 320’s.

2021 all 6 hunters tagged bulls averaging around the 300 class.

Rifle hunts are 5 days guided 1×1 with guaranteed tag, no draw. First hunt October 1 to 5 is priced at $16,100. Second hunt November 17 to 21 and last hunt December 1 to 5 are $14,500.

The outfitter gives past clients first opportunity to rebook this ranch or one of their other ranches before opening it up to new hunters. If you are interested give us a call. Hunters fly into Albuquerque and rent a car. Hunt EKM90.

 

#1 UTAH MUZZLELOADER HUNT
$8500 AVERAGE SCORE 300

This small personal outfitter normally does 4 to 6 muzzleloader bull elk hunters starting in early November when the bulls are typically lower on the ranch and in larger numbers than the rifle season. This 7,800 acre ranch is in northeastern Utah and the earlier rifle season normally runs at or near 100 percent success. Utah allows long range muzzleloaders with scopes.

2022 his 4 muzzleloader hunters killed 3 bulls and hit and lost one. All 3 bulls gross scored in the 280’s and 290’s.

2021 he had 6 muzzleloader hunters kill 3 bulls and hit and lost one. Best bull was a giant at 359 inches. He had several hunters come into camp with inexpensive muzzleloaders that hindered their success.

Accommodations are trailers in a park where they can take UTV’s right into the hunting area or motel accommodations at $80 per night. 4 day hunts including meals are $8,500 plus license and tax. Hunting is mostly done by using pickup trucks and Ranger UTV’s.

Airport pickup at SLC is included. HCU’s Cliff Graham and Bob Wodzisz have been on this ranch. Hunt EKMZ830.

 

UTAH CWMU RIFLE RUT HUNT
35,000 FREE RANGE ACRES
100 PERCENT SUCCESS PAST YEARS
AVERAGE 310 TO 320 INCHES
$17,500 TO $20,000 1X1
GUARANTEED TAG – NO DRAW

This is a premier hunt on a 35,000 private acre ranch in the CWMU program guaranteeing 34 bull tags and allowing them to run 5 rifle rut hunts from September 6 to October 9 plus a later October 25 to 30 hunt. They typically take 6 hunters per hunt and success has run at or near 100 percent the past several years. The only negative on this hunt is extremely limited availability due to past clients getting first opportunity.

     2022 finished with 34 hunters killing 34 bulls. Top bulls were in the 320 to 330 class with an overall average of 300.

2021 was again 34 for 34 on kills. 350 gross was top bull taken and average was 310 plus and only 2 bulls scored under 300 inches.

     The property has an amazing bull to cow ratio of 70:100 and hunters can expect to see 5 to 15 good bulls per day. Hunters get to experience the rut in full force with bugling bulls and crashing of antlers. This is not a physically demanding hunt and HCU has never had a hunter come home without a bull on this hunt.

5 day hunts are priced at $20,000 1×1 for the first 3 hunts and $17,500 for the last 3 hunts, including lodge/cabin accommodations with home cooked meals. Hunters fly into Salt Lake City airport and rent a car. HCU’s Cliff Graham and Bob Wodzisz have been on this ranch. Hunt EK2B90.

 

GOT 23 COLORADO ELK POINTS? 
COLORADO TROPHY UNIT
ELK REQUIRES 23 OR MORE POINTS
MULE DEER REQUIRES 11 SECOND SEASON HUNT 
OR 15 THIRD SEASON
$6000 5 DAYS ELK OR DEER
VOUCHERS SOMETIMES AVAILABLE

You will need at least 23 elk preference points to draw the second, third or fourth season elk tag, the special early rifle and archery seasons can require 23 to 26 points.

2022 bow season went 2 for 2, took a 300 and 320. Muzzleloader he had 5 hunters kill 4 bulls from 270 to 320 and the unsuccessful hunter crippled a bull and missed another. His only early rifle hunter tagged a great 360 inch 6 point bull. Rifle seasons ended with 25 hunters tagging 22 bulls, best went 373 and 360, but most were in the 280 to 310 range.

2021 bow season went 2 for 6 and everyone had shooting opportunities resulting in misses. Muzzleloader went 4 for 6 with 5 misses. Best bull scored a whopping 373 and rest were in the low 300’s. First 3 rifle seasons finished with 14 hunters harvesting 13 bulls. Top 2 bulls grossed 350 points. He had a late November hunt where 2 of the 6 hunters scored, best bull went 330 and all the hunters had opportunities on 300 class but passed wanting bigger.

On normal years the average bull taken gross scores around 300 inches and the top bulls sometimes tip the 350 mark. Mule deer success is near 100 percent and the average buck gross scores 170 to 180 inches.

 5 day hunts guided 2×1 are only $6,000 with wall tent accommodations on the early archery and muzzleloader hunts and cabin accommodations on the rifle hunts. Airport pickup in Grand Junction can be arranged for $150. Deer hunts require 11 points minimum to draw second season and 15 points for the third season and the hunt is $6,000. Early April draw deadline. Landowner vouchers are sometimes available. Hunters need to book ahead for a spot. HCU’s Cliff Graham has hunted elk and deer with this outfit. Hunt EK21.  EK21 Hunt Photos.

 

WYOMING TROPHY ELK UNIT 7
REQUIRES 13 OR 14 PREFERNCE
POINTS TO DRAW

This hunt takes place in Unit 7 near the Laramie Range in southeastern Wyoming. It normally takes at least 13 or 14 points to draw this unit. The high dollar special draw can increase your odds. JANUARY 31 DRAW DEADLINE and these hunts need booked in advance. Preference points can be obtained from July 1 to October 31 by going to the web https://wgfd.wyo.gov and follow the simple instructions. We highly recommend purchasing the elk preference point currently priced around $53 for future years.

This small family operation has 3 ranches totaling 32,000 private acres with rough, deep canyons and draws, along with some prime BLM property. This can be a physical hunt, but hunters are rewarded with some awesome bulls. They normally take 1 or 2 archery hunters and 5 or 6 rifle hunters per year and have been close to 100 percent success past several years. Best bulls taken have gross scored from 340 to 370, with the average in the 320 range.

     Rustic cabin accommodations with electric are priced at $8,500 plus a lodging/meals 5% tax for 5 hunting days guided 1×1 from October 15 to November 20. They also can do a couple archery elk hunters in September. Hunters fly into Denver and rent a car for the 3 hour drive to camp. Hunt EK264.

 

ARIZONA TOUGH DRAW ODDS
TROPHY BULLS AND BUCKS
HERE ARE 2 PREMIER OUTFITTERS
ARCHERY HAS BETTER DRAW ODDS

Arizona is an outstanding hunting state, but the drawing odds are exceptionally low, and you must buy a state license to apply. We suggest hunters to apply for the draw, but do not expect to pull any tags and DO NOT HOLD OFF BOOKING A HUNT ELSEWHERE WHILE WAITING ON AN ARIZONA TAG or you may not get much hunting in.

This outfitter consistently produces trophy quality bulls in the 320 to 390 range with success near 100 percent on the early gun or archery hunts. Late season rifle hunts are easier to draw and you still stand a good chance of taking bulls in the 300 to 340 class. He also conducts trophy mule deer hunts in the Kaibab and has guided hunters to many 200 inch deer over the years, but realistically you should be hoping for a 180 inch buck.

It is worthwhile for hunters to purchase the $160 license or only $22 for a youth license and accumulate bonus points. He charges $6,500 to hunt the full season (14 days for archery or 7 for gun) guided 1×1. January 31 deadline for elk and May 30 for deer. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz and Cliff Graham have hunted with this outfit.
Hunt EK91.  EK91 Hunt Photos.

Here is another top Arizona outfitter that typically hunts units 5A, 5B North, 5B South, 6, 1 and 27. Archery hunts are 7 days and rifle hunts are 6 days, both guided 1×1 for $7,500 with lodge accommodations. Extra days can be added if necessary. Success is typically remarkably high on bulls in the 320 to 390 class depending on the unit.

Arizona drawing odds can be hit or miss since they use the bonus point system, but normally you can draw in Unit 5 with about 10 to 12 points, whereas in Units 1 and 27 the average is more like 18 for archery and over 24 for rifle, although you can pull a tag with any number of points.

Season starts about September 9 and draw deadline is late January and the outfitter will assist you in the draw. Hunters are picked up in Tucson. Hunt EKB404.  EKB404 Hunt Photos.

 

100% GUARANTEED ELK HUNT
PRIVATE LAND
SOUTHERN IDAHO MOUNTAINS
STARTING AT $9900

This premier outfitter has 5,500 continuous acres under high fence located in the beautiful mountains of southeastern Idaho. Hunts take place at 6,500 foot elevation in elk country with diverse habitat consisting of pine and aspen forests making for challenging and exciting stalks. A premium brand-new private lodge provides a comfortable night’s stay after the days hunt. Enjoy home cooked meals during your entire hunt. Hunts are conducted using the side by side all-terrain vehicles.

4 day trip is priced at $9,900 and includes a bull gross scoring 300 to 340 inches, 3 days of hunting guided 1×1, lodging, meals, field dressing, trophy preparation, tag, license and tax. These are beautiful bulls that will make great mounts and can be upgraded for the following prices.

Bulls scoring 341 to 360 are $10,900, 361 to 380 are $11,900, 381 to 400 are $13,500, 401 to 420 are $15,500, larger bulls are available and priced separately. Cow elk are $2,000.

Bison is also available, and bulls are priced from $6,800 up to $9,800. ALL TRIPS INCLUDE A NON-HUNTER AT NO COST. Airport shuttle service is included from Salt Lake City. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz has visited this ranch.   Hunt EKP224.  EKP224 Hunt Photos.

ARCHERY ELK HUNTS

HCU works with several outfitters that offer archery elk hunts. Here are a few in Colorado, Wyoming, and New Mexico.

 This COLORADO horseback archery hunt is $6,500 and has been a very high opportunity for an archery bull. Their main method is calling with spot and stalk, super exciting, and his early hunt dates are quite productive. This private ranch has remarkably high elk numbers and archers typically have near 100 percent opportunity.

2022 finished with 37 archers killing 14 bulls, hitting and losing 19 with the average shot at 25 yards or less, and missing 3 bulls.

2021 he had 33 bowhunters kill 13 bulls, wound 11 and miss 6.

2020 his 33 archers over the course of a long season killed 15 bulls, crippled 8 and missed plenty.

Most bulls taken are 5×5’s in the 240 to 260 range. He runs four 4 day horseback hunts priced at $6,500 guided 2×1 during the month of September with cabin accommodations. 2023 openings are limited, book now for 2024.  Hunt EKB824.  EKB824 Hunt Photos.

 

Southcentral NEW MEXICO hunt produces trophy class bulls averaging 300 inches in primitive weapon only units for only $6,950 2×1 or $9,950 1×1 plus 8% state tax. 6 day hunts running from September 1 to 14 or 5 day hunts between September 15 to 24 and can be extended for $750 per day. Typically 50% of the archers shoot at bulls.

With his draw formula by putting 3 choices in top trophy units according to dates it increases your odds to about 15% draw. He does have landowner vouchers available for a guaranteed tag, but these are priced anywhere from $6500 to $10,000.

     Accommodations could vary from a lodge, bed/breakfast, to possibly wall tents with floors or a spike camp, depending on the tag drawn.  HuntEKB820.

 

Here is a UTAH archery hunt with very good elk numbers on the ranch. $8,500 guided 1×1 from mid-August to late September when the bulls are rutted up. Small personal outfitter on a private ranch in northeastern Utah. Travel trailer accommodations in a park near the hunting area with meals included.

2022 he had 5 archers kill a nice 290 inch 5×6, another bull was hit and lost and there were multiple misses. Only one bowhunter didn’t have an opportunity at a decent bull.

2021 his 7 bowhunters killed 5 bulls and 2 were missed. 2 bulls went 300 inches, 280, 270 and a 240 bull was taken.

2020 his 2 archers killed bulls in the 250 to 260 range, not as big as normal, probably due to the extreme heat and drought.

This ranch usually takes about 15 rifle hunters per year and runs close to 100 percent success on bulls averaging 290 to 300 inches, but with repeat bookings we normally do not have rifle openings.

Airport pickup in Salt Lake City included. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz and Cliff Graham have been on this ranch.  Hunt EKB830.

 

NEW MEXICO 31,000 acre ranch includes landowner voucher (guaranteed tag) and 5 hunting days at $11,500 guided 1×1. The ranch borders the Mescalero Apache Reservation in southcentral N.M. near Ruidoso.

2022 produced 10 bulls for 12 archers, both unsuccessful hunters missed bulls. Top bulls gross scored 280 into 290’s.

2021 produced 15 bulls for 16 archers and the unsuccessful bow hunter passed on bulls.

They run 4 hunts with 4 archers per hunt, September 2-6, 8-12, 15-19, and 20-24. 5 days 1×1 is $11,500.

Hunters fly into Albuquerque and rent a vehicle for a 3 hour drive. Openings are determined according to the amount of repeat clientele bookings. Call us if you are interested.   Hunt EKBNO90.

 

MONTANA Missouri Breaks 7 hunting days is priced at $5,250 guided 2×1.

2022 he had 5 hunters kill 4 bulls, including a 340, two more 6 points and a raghorn.

2021 his 7 bowhunters tagged 3 bulls, best grossing close to 350, hit and lost 2 plus a miss.

He runs exciting spot and stalk hunts throughout September, normally 2 hunters per hunt. Tent camp right off Fort Peck Lake. The Missouri Breaks archery tag normally requires 4 or 5 preference points with an April 1 draw deadline. Preference points can be acquired July 1 to September 30.

Hunters fly into Billings and rent a car for the 3 hour drive.   Hunt EKB219.

 

Southeastern COLORADO private land elk hunt priced at $8,000 near the New Mexico border.

2022 his 6 bowhunters tagged 3 bulls and the best one topped the 300 inch mark.

2021 his 3 archers killed a small 6 point and crippled a bull.

2020 his four bowhunters killed two 5×5 bulls, missed a bull and passed on a bull.

This is a very exciting spot and stalk hunt with decent elk numbers and quality bulls. Season is September 1 to 30 and we prefer the later dates. Price is $8,000 guided 2×1 or $9,000 1×1 with basic ranch house accommodations and meals. Archery tags are over the counter. Hunters fly into Denver or Colorado Springs and rent a car for the 3 or 2 hour drive.  Hunt EKB554.

 

Southwest COLORADO trophy elk archery hunt. Price is $6,000 guided 1×1 for 5 days with cabin accommodations. This is a draw unit requiring minimum 23 preference points or landowner vouchers are available for about $7,000. The average bull normally grosses around 300 inches. This is a terrific hunt with lots of action.

2022 both of his archers tagged bulls, a 320 inch bull and a 300.

2021 all 6 bowhunters had shooting resulting in only 2 tagged bulls.

2020 his 2 archers shot at six 6 point bulls, missed 4 and hit and lost 2.

April 4 draw deadline.  Hunt EKB21.

COW ELK HUNTS

WYOMING COW ELK HUNTS $2400

This family owns 20,000 private acres bordering the Medicine Bow National Forest. This is in Area 10 and drawing odds are near 100 percent. Hunters can also put in as a group so all or none will draw. Cabin accommodations with meals provided.

This is an exceedingly small personal operation, not the normal in and out cow meat hunt. 3 days of hunting guided 2×1 for $2,400 with lodging and meals included. Tags are $288 and you need to apply in January. He will conduct these hunts during the month of November. This is an elk hunt, not a shoot, and the experience is worth the price besides the opportunity to take home a truckload of meat. All HCU past hunters have tagged out on this hunt.   Hunt EKC558.

WYOMING COW HUNTS $2200 5 DAYS

This 9,200 acre property is located in Unit 3 in southeastern Wyoming. Tags have been available with 0 points and can sometimes be purchased as leftovers.

 5 day hunt is $2,200 guided 2×1 including cabin lodging on the property and meals. Cow elk season is mid-October to November 31 and can be combined with pronghorn on the early hunt for $4,500 or combination cow elk/whitetail hunt for $6,000 for 5 days and the deer have been averaging in the 140’s.

Draw deadline is January 31. Hunters fly into Denver and rent a vehicle for the 3 hour drive. HCU’s Bob Wodzisz has been on this property.   Hunt EKC2643.