I have never used an outfitter or guide. Never had anyone take me elk hunting. I am a flatlander from IN, and back in 2003 decided I wanted to archery elk hunt. I read everything about elk I could, watched videos, called wildlife agencies out West and taught myself everything I could about backpack hunting. Bought an over the counter archery tag go CO and went on my first elk hunt. I would like to say I harvested an elk my first time out but I didn't. I gained something more though, a love for western mtn. Hunting, confidence in going to unknown territory, and first hand knowledge of elk behavior. I have since been on numerous DIY western hunts some successful harvests some not, but always learn something new and become a better hunter each time. If you look at your trip as a learning adventure with packing out meat as just a bonus then you will have a great time, but if you focus on having to harvest an elk be prepared for disappointment.
