Where To Start

[Mussgrass]

I am 55YO and have never applied for any western tags. Where does one get started? I don't feel like applying for 10 years and still don't have any tags. Is it even worth it? Not to mention the money wasted just applying for years with no tags to show for it.

 

[Gellar]

I think by defining what you want to get out of a western hunting experience will help determine the next logical steps.

 

[SAJ-99]

Buy MT pref point and you can probably hunt 2027. WY random draws might have decent odds in some things. Cow elk hunts are usually pretty good odds. Good luck.

 

[TOGIE]

Where to start? Buy an OTC rifle tag in colorado and just go.

It's beautiful, there are legitimate chances of success, and you'll learn a lot and badly want to come back. Bring a fishing rod, visit some hot springs before leaving town, it's all worth the while.

Snag some points this year and you'll quickly start to learn how you might want to plan to use em.

 

[Elktrack]

I am 55YO and have never applied for any western tags. Where does one get started? I don't feel like applying for 10 years and still don't have any tags. Is it even worth it?

Depends. First, what do you want to hunt? Since you said “western hunts” I assume you don’t have mule deer or elk where you are. So if you want to hunt mule deer or elk for example, you have to put in somewhere. Getting a mule deer or elk tag in the west won’t take 10 years. It’s all about what you want to do. If it’s actually hunting as much as you can then get after it and apply for hunts with good odds. If you’re dreaming of a Kaibab muley, you probably won’t draw. Be realistic and decide what you want to do and do it.

Are you going to kick yourself 10 years from now for not trying? It’s different for everyone.

 

[ccc23454]

@TOGIE nailed it, just go otc to CO elk this year! It's overall cheap and can be as big or small of adventure as you want. Get gear together till you go, challenge yourself once there but realize it's not about the harvest. The hunt will be demanding on gear, your physical ability and mostly mentality. It's not for everyone but only one way to find out. Keep it enjoyable, good luck!