Post Rut Cow Elk in Colorado

[RedMonkey]

I have hunted OTC either-sex elk archery for some time now and have always relied on locating elk by bugling and cow calling. I drew a Colorado 2nd season rifle cow tag for this year. I've heard a lot of tips on hunting bulls post rut but nothing on cows. I've heard a lot about the big bulls seeking sanctuary post rut... Any suggestions on locating the cows?

 

[JohnCushman]

Welcome to the forum

 

[SFC B]

Welcome.....are you "anticipating" drawing a cow tag for this year? Draw results for CO won't be out for sometime as the applications don't even close until 03APR18. That being said, post rut, cows, calves and spikes will be grouped up. Depending on where you plan to hunt their location can be greatly dependent on weather. Have a look a look at the Hunting Atlas on the CPW website and give a hunt planner a call with your specifics as a good place to start.

 

[pabearhunter]

Welcome aboard.

 

[RedMonkey]

Good catch. Haha I should have said I'm going to draw this tag because I have 3 points and it's a 2 point tag. Its in unit 49.

 

[hank4elk]

Be at a feeding area or water at o'dark thirty & hope the wind holds.
If that doesn't work to catch them going to bedding areas in the trees.

 

[elkduds]

If you watch them bed, they can be still-hunted in the timber. Cow and especially calf calls can cover sounds of your approach and even bring them toward you, but the wind has to be right.