2012 Elk

[BothellBikeGuy]

Okay, I decided to get ahead of the game and actually start planning for my 2012 elk season. I rediscovered my bow and have already started practicing. I'm lucky to be about a mile from Kenmore Gun range which has an excelent walk through course.

I've decided on a general location based on the fact that I drive through the area at least once a month; therefore, I should be able to plan to scout some specific spots and get myself into shape before the season begins next September.

I'm looking at GMU 336 & 346 since they are just off I-90 and like a I said, I pass though here often. I have a Forest serveice Map and Washington Atlas and Gazetter. Where can I find Topos and does anyone have any specific recommendations for zeroing in on a spot. I'm not afraid to hike or Mtn bike into an area and would prefer to find a spot with few roads.

Thanks,

Jeff

[Robbo]

If I had my choice I'd hunt 346 and get as far west as possible. The bulls in those units hang out way up high in the early archery season. It's been a long time since I've hunted there and I'm not sure what the road network is like there now. I'd call the Naches Ranger Station at (509) 653-1401 and see if they have any maps showing where the locked gates are and the roadless areas. That's where the highest concentration of elk is going to be. I drew a cow tag in 336 about 15 years ago and I was disappointed at how many roads and people there were there. I hunted 356 the first year it went to spike only and my gawd I saw some giant bull during the rifle season. That's my .02 for what it's worth

[BothellBikeGuy]

Thanks Robbo - your 2 cents is worth so much more than that! I think the PCT runs through GMU 346 - thats the furthest west I can get legally if I pick Eastern Wa.

I've been staring at the maps I have and its time to pick up the phone or get out and walk.

[Robbo]

PCT hits the western edge of that unit. I'd look at walk-in or roadless areas as far west as you can get. Steep and deep in that area and big old growth timber. The big bulls I found south of there were all in the old growth timber. Pretty exciting man...can't wait to hear how your scouting and hunts go in the next year

[BothellBikeGuy]

With your help, I've tenatively identifed a faily remote spot that I'll check out as soon as I can. From the map I have there apprears to be about 10-13 square miles without and roads. I'll be looking for steep and deep. I'm pretty stoked!