Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Elk Hunting Elk 2018

Last year was my first trip to Montana. I hunted elk/deer. Saw lots of deer (does) and some elk. I missed a cow with my bow at 48 yards. Had a blast. I learned alot about the land and the pressure of other hunters. I'm now planning on what to do for 2018.

Do I go back solo with my bow or take one of my sons? Reason I say one is the other isn't interested in archery much. It was hard enough for me to get one elk to present a shot with a bow. I would gladly leave my bow in the truck to get my boy a shot. Taking a shooter and me being a caller does allow for different calling setups.

Go back to Montana in rifle season. This is much more youth friendly. I'm sure both boys would go then. My main concern is pressure. Getting away from other hunters enough to get us in animals.

I have been told the area I hunt gets pounded in gun season. Both boys will be 15 this fall. Thoughts/opinions?

I'd do what would get both your boys out hunting, if that means rifle then go that route, just get back off the roads further than others...could you pull off a bow hunt then follow up later with the boys using rifle?
I've been out west the last 7 years with my sons ( now 24 &20 ) we've had some success but often don't get all our tags punched, that time together in the outdoors together is what it's about. Get them hooked hunting as young as you can!

Take your kids! Took my son on his first western trip when he was 13 and we were living back east. One of my fondest memories.

I either try or do take my son out west every year to hunt.
We’ve been doing it since he was 10, he’s 14 going on 15 now and we only missed last year because neither of us drew anything.
This year though we’re back in the game.

Poor success will cause youngster to lose interest faster than anything.Go with a season that will assure him the greatest opportunity to punch his tag

Take both your boys. Easy decision.

Thanks guys. As much as I would like to go out twice (archery for me, rifle for the boys) that's not feasible.

Gage has the most experience. Been hunting with me since he was 8. 3 whitetail bucks and 6 does. Aidan came into my life a few years ago. He has scored 1 buck and 2 does but is easily frustrated. He just needs a little more patience.

The wife and I discussed options today, still working out possibilities/logistics.

How about some prairie dog action at some time along the way? That is as long as the timing is about right. I plan to get out West with the 14 y/o this spring or early Summer.

Good idea Sourdough, just some good ol fashioned rodent control with no pressure.