Glassing more heavily timbered basins for September elk

[ttewes]

Does anyone have any tips for glassing more heavily-timbered high country basins for September elk? We camp up high with a large basin to the east and west, and both have pretty heavy cover with limited pockets where elk could be viewed with binos/SS. It is good country and holds elk, but glassing can be difficult with the limited visibility.What have you found to be helpful?

 

[Againstthewind]

Probably kindof general and simple, but from what I have read and been told, do it in a grid pattern and very systematically, close to far, and look for animal parts not a whole animal. Bulls are a little more yellow colored I think, so if you find a yellow spot between trees its worth a good look. Sometimes the movement of the brush gives them away, too. I will also be interested in responses because I miss a lot of animals I think.

The Eastman's site had a video on it a little while ago I think. Might pay to search for that, but I have to make supper I guess. Dang it.

 

[micropterus79]

^^^I think the grid pattern is the best you can do; try to pick reference points (rocks, trees, etc...) to systematically go over an area. Also, Against brings up a good point that I personally forget; I am not looking for an animal, I am supposed to be looking for an ear, or an antler, or a head, etc...)

Lets face it, even with great optics and all the time in the world, there are animals you just won't be able to see given certain circumstances but I will also be curious to see how others handle this type of situation.

 

[25contender]

Remember Elk have to feed ang like grassy meadows benches etc. I would spend more time glassing these areas at first light and watch where they go to bed for the day. Then check out the same areas in the afternoon to see if they return. You should be able to pattern them. They have to feed.