Update from the 2020 Second Rifle Elk Season

Good hunting continued for Dark Timber Outfitters during 2nd Rifle season.  We experienced a lot of what a classic elk hunt in the mountains can throw at you: biting cold, crazy winds, heavy snowfall, gorgeous bluebird days, and fortunately plenty of elk.  

Coming home to the lodge’s wood burning stove, delicious home-cooked meals and shared stories about the day in the field from our guides and hunters made for a fantastic hunt.

We had a great group of hunters once again. We feel very lucky to have shared these times with a a grandfather, his son and granddaughter. Having three generations present in camp to share the granddaughter’s first elk hunt was pretty cool. 

On that note, for all of our hunters except one, this was a “first elk hunt”. They did well not letting single digit temperatures, 10” of snow or windy days bog them down.  We also had a Dark Timber first as Richie proposed to April out front on bended knee in the snow…and she said yes. Further evidence that you just never know what’ll happen on an elk hunt.

We were able to kill three nice bulls all of which were shot at 300 yards coincidentally.  That shot distance sort of pushes the limits for our operation, especially with newer hunters.  However, all three hunters made fantastic shots with the elk barely taking more than a few steps before dropping.  That’s how it’s supposed to go: quick, clean and ethical.  At the end of the hunt, we had 60% success with 80% opportunity.  In an over-the-counter rifle season with a 15% success rate, we’ll take those numbers all day.

Our guides, Eli and Marshall, were outstanding.  Providing eagle eyes, wise set-ups, patience, and sharing knowledge about why and where elk will be…you simply can’t fake that stuff. 

Aunt Debie wasn’t able to make this hunt and was missed. But having Deanna and Matt in the kitchen from Black Canyon Anglers was awesome.  Having helped us out in the past, their positive energy and phenomenal meals are a treat and really bring everyone together.

We’ve got 3rd Rifle on deck and then we’ll be closing up the lodge for the winter.  In the meantime, I’ll give another huge thanks to all of our hunters and staff.  We’re looking forward to one more great hunt on the Plateau and hunting elk on our public lands legacy!