I am in the early stages of planning a guided elk hunt. Have not chosen the state, but might lean towards an area where both elk and muleys can be hunted at the same time. No time to scout so need to purchase experience. I have no interest in a "canned" hunt. Been deer hunting for 20 years and always wanted to go west and take a crack at a bull elk. I did pick up a suggestion from the other thread reagarding huntamerica.com and will pursue it. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Northwoods (of Minnesota)

You are wise to start the search now. Most western states have their applications and file dates in the first quarter of the year. Arizona is going to this system for the first time this coming year, also.

My suggestion would be to google the Game & Fish departments of the western US for hunting info and registered quiding services. Most states have lists of their licensed quides. As far as quality outfitters and hunts, best get a list of all clients for the past couple of years from those you select and check them out for recommendations. DON'T just take the ones the outfitter suggests - they will always be the successful ones.

Be prepared to pay anywhere from $4500 to $6000 for the hunt, excluding licenses fees, tips, transportation and meat/trophy handling by processor and taxidermist.

Here are some of the guides in Idaho in the area where I live. This is some pretty country and there are some pretty good elk around here.

www.russellpond.com/elk-hunt.html

web.camasnet.com/~ridgerun/

www.trailblazehunting.com/consultants/outfitters/Default.aspx?location=Idaho

www.fishandgame.com/paradise/

www.bbarcoutfitters.com/

www.bungalowoutfittersllc.com/elk.htm

www.clearwateroutfitters.net/prices.htm

These will give you an idea of prices and durations of an elk hunt.

Here are a few pix of this area.

For the past 2 years I have guided for Kohls outfitting in Idaho. They have a good web site that you can check out. The one advantage to hunt in at least our part of idaho is that there is not application deal. The tags are given to the outfitter to hand out. We have a early rifle season (rut hunt) in one of our zones and I highly recomend that. It is still a very physical hunt so you will have to be in good shape. It also helps if you take a couple of riding leasons before you come. we use horse and mules to pack in. Robin (my boss) runs a great camp and the cook is great! If you would like to ask any questions feel free to send me a PM. Or just call Robin. the number is on the web site. www.kohlsoutfitting.com
Tell him Jeff sent you!!!