I have been going down for opener for several years. Since it went to a Saturday opener the pressure is insane. Probably a much better experience later in the season like you say but those big woods get a lot of pressure from day 1.
Yeah this seems like it could certainly be the case in some units with extreme archery pressure, however there is nearly 2 weeks from the end of season before first rifle opens. And the success rates for first rifle compared to second or later speaks for itself. Certainly seems like a good time...
First season rifle in Colorado opens October 12 this year. Units with thick dark timber all the way up to tree line, what’s the strategy? Listening to pre-dawn bugles and trying to get into the timber and stick with them until one slips into range? Let’s hear some ideas.