Just returned back from MT from my first archery elk hunt. This was my first time on a out of state hunt. First time hunting elk let alone an archery hunt. We hunted a few different locations. We hunted burns, glasses hillsides benches & draws, and put in miles on the boots, roughly 30mil the whole trip. We were in good elk country (aka grizzly country) with lots of sign. Wallows, rubs, fresh tracks and scat. We bugled and cow called almost every 200ft of travel and only had minimal responses. The smoke in the state was thick which I assume was the reason the activity was slow? We ran into moose, bucks, cows and bear romping through the forest. Last day we called in a bull to within 15-20ft but between all the blow down and foliage my buddy never had a clear shot. The vocal exchange was awesome to experience first hand. The stud vanished from our sight just as quick as he came in. Even though we did not tag out I did not leave empty handed. The experience i got exploring the wild country MT has to offer and also getting past my fear of hunting in bear country is irreplaceable and leaves me longing for the next adventure. This is an experience I won't forget anytime soon. I will return next year.
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