Does anyone have any experience with Elk Drop camps with an Outfitter? If so, what are the pros and cons to doing these kinds of hunts? Looking for recommendations on outfitters that you have used and if you have them, success photos. This will be my first elk hunt unless I get drawn for Idaho today. Mainly looking for advice and recommendations on prior outfitters.
Here's my two cents worth.
One thing about drop camps, and sometimes even guided hunts is this. Let's say you're booking a hunt a bit later in the season. Be aware that an Outfitter may have had 3 other groups shuttled in and out of that camp prior to your turn there. How do you know what all has gone on there prior to your turn? Has that area been pounded by 12-20 other clients already? Have they taken some of the Elk to lower your odds now? Have they spooked all the game out that drainage, and they're hip to that camps location? They don't get big by being stupid.
Having said all this, I also know that a game-less area today, can have a herd moved in there tomorrow from maybe being spooked there from an adjoining area. However you're relying a lot on luck and timing to being able to find them with your time running out. Of course, that's a hunters situation most anytime.
Not all Outfitted situations are as I'm describing, but I've talked to Outfitted clients in my area that paid good money to be taken to a Drop Camp, and no one in camp has even seen an Elk, much less a nice Bull.
Before I booked a hunt, I'd want to be talking to past clients that hunted out of the same camp you're booking to see what their experience was. Both in the game seen, the description of the area, and the amenities and service from the Outfitter. You have nothing to lose doing your homework.
