I just had the portside totally replaced due to a training accident while in Iraq. Interesting experience in titanium, "minimally invasive" surgery, and pain meds...

MAYBE this fall (I'm reasonably fit for my age), certainly by next fall, I want to make a backpack 5 day hunt somewhere in Washington State.

Where should I consider, and what should I consider in evaluating selecting a site?

Deer or elk, armed with a 308 rifle. I have a tipi tent with stove, etc. and all of the camping bling (including quality back, optics, sleeping pads).

Not trying to kill myself first time out after surgery, so would also consider a fly-in or boat-in location.

Suggestions/recommendations?

Thanks,

David

nuthin?

Yes,

Listen to the Docs. Guy I know started hunting on his before the Docs released him to do so and it didn't have time to attach solid and he had to have it redone. This fall may be too early this being July. Usually 6 months is recommended for return to previous activity level.

Some recover quicker, but carrying a pack adds additional considerations.

I'd go slow while coming back as well. The possibility of problems is a very real one. A friend of mine had a hip replacement done 5 years ago. Three surgeries later they're still in serious pain. That can affect your whole life; and not in a good way.

There are lots of hunts you can do this year that are much less strenuous than backpack hunting. I would look at next year for that if it were me.

Best of luck with the recovery.

Just realized I didn't answer your question about what and where.

Hope all goes well.

I agree with both of you. Next fall.

Now, where?

I'm not up to speed on Washington state's opportunities, but I would look for a deer tag (more animals to see and less weight to pack out) somewhere on the dry side of the Cascades where the weather would have a better chance of being pleasant during the trip.

You can try for elk or goats the following year.

High buck hunt.

Alpine lakes wilderness or Glacier Peaks.

http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations/summary_hunting_dates.html