aion2come
WKR
Looking at possibly hunting colorado 161 this fall. Anyone know of a rancher who packs out elk?
Have you ever done this?You can always rent your own horse from Sombrero for your hunt.
Have you ever done this?
When I first started researching elk hunting, I thought I'd just find a packer like all the books suggest. I spent one summer trying to find one, with very little luck.
I am now of the opinion that, for the most part, those days are gone. The outfitters don't want to pack out your elk unless they just happen to be where you are, have nothing else to do and can make a quick buck. They're too busy with clients paying for full guided hunts. I'm not knocking outfitters for this, just stating my opinion of the state of "elk packing".
It almost sounded like he didn't want my money and was almost insulted that I was even asking. Maybe you'll have better luck.
If the system was 'changed up a bit' and allow the go-getters to get after it, you wouldnt pay what they asked.
Because it would be sky-high
The outfitters don't necessarily want additional folks hunting in the areas they take paying customers to either.
If the challenge of packing out your kill deters hunters from going into an area, it's to their benefit.
I'm no economist, but I don't follow your logic here.
the other thing about the outfitters is that they are busy and have their stock dedicated to certain camps and to leave and do something else can really screw up the schedule. just cause he has 30 head does not mean he can go grab one at the drop of a hat [elk]
the animals in camp cant leave camp and he may have to ride many miles and drive many more to get 3 more head that he planned on resting for 2 days. the logistics are not visible to most hikers.
I believe there is a packer in southern Colorado that will go anywhere, anytime to pack your meat. if she goes very far the price is steep.