While talking to a highly recommended outfitter about an archery moose hunt in British Columbia in 2017, he presented me with a very intriguing opportunity. His area borders the Yukon and much hasn't been hunted for many years. He has an area that he wants explored and scouted for mountain goats. I would be with my bow and a guide. We would be flown in for an 11 day hunt. We will only have our packs to hold all of our needs for the almost two weeks. The area is thick with a light trail to the top of the mountain that overlooks where they believe the goats are present and killed 15 years ago. Flights over show many game trails and my guide walked to the top last year and said it was littered with goat droppings. They did not walk down to the other side though which is opposite of where the goats should be, though they could be on the other side of the first mountain as well. That's where he is unsure of the ability to get down to the goats, but believes there is a way as the indian guide did it. Altitude is relatively low in the area; 3000-4500'. The climbs over the mountains in search of the goats, which is a whole another challenge. 10 years ago I would be all over this but now not being a spring chicken, a little worried about my bodies ability to get through it. I want to go badly as it would be a great adventure but a very, very demanding and tough one. I'm 52 yrs old and in good physical shape overall but not goat shape yet?? The guide has been very straight forward and set proper expectations for an adventure like this as it could be just an expensive camping trip. Outfitter is Jake Gunson. We have spoken numerous times and he has also sent me topo locations to get an idea.
The cost is relatively low with an additional harvest fee if successful. Plane ride in is $1500 and rest is just food and guide fees. There is also a moose harvest fee if I run into a good one. I do know that last time it was hunted 15 years ago by an indian guide and he took a goat every time he went with a rifle for 3 years. I am a bowhunter, so would use that.
I would need to get me a good pack. I have good clothing from Kuiu and Sitka that would work well. I am leaning towards going as this will most likely me my last opportunity for a trip like this. I do have bad knees from my previous basketball career, but could probably get through it.
The cost is relatively low with an additional harvest fee if successful. Plane ride in is $1500 and rest is just food and guide fees. There is also a moose harvest fee if I run into a good one. I do know that last time it was hunted 15 years ago by an indian guide and he took a goat every time he went with a rifle for 3 years. I am a bowhunter, so would use that.
I would need to get me a good pack. I have good clothing from Kuiu and Sitka that would work well. I am leaning towards going as this will most likely me my last opportunity for a trip like this. I do have bad knees from my previous basketball career, but could probably get through it.