Hunting partner backed out :(

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stevevan

Active Member
Mar 22, 2014
305
0
Michigan's Upper Penninsula. South central in Delt
That's a big disappointment, however don't let it slow you down. I've gone solo in the past when that was the only option. The worse part of doing it alone, when there's a last minute cancellation such as you've experienced, is that pre departure anxiety. Once you hit the road that lessens a great deal and the anticipation of the hunt takes over. Gods speed and best of luck chasing the big one.
 
gonhunting247

gonhunting247

Veteran member
Jan 21, 2014
1,216
797
stevevan said:
That's a big disappointment, however don't let it slow you down. I've gone solo in the past when that was the only option. The worse part of doing it alone, when there's a last minute cancellation such as you've experienced, is that pre departure anxiety. Once you hit the road that lessens a great deal and the anticipation of the hunt takes over. Gods speed and best of luck chasing the big one.
Click to expand...
^^^^I agree
 
S

Smokin

New Member
Aug 8, 2015
4
0
I went solo elk hunting last year in northern AZ. I'd been a couple times with friends, but never taken an elk or even seen an elk taken. It was a bit intimidating, but absolutely worth it. I ended up bumping into some guys that were extremely helpful and even helped me cut up and pack out when I was successful (my first elk). Go, make friends with whoever you meet out there, and have a blast. If you're worried about gear, not sure what your budget is, but camp showers are cheap. I bought this one for last year and it worked awesome. Heated up in the sun to a nice temp for the afternoon lull.

http://smile.amazon.com/Advanced-Elements-Gallon-Summer-Shower/dp/B000J2Q0SU/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1445200644&sr=8-15&keywords=camp+shower

If you're planning on camping near your truck (best bet if you're not an experienced camper), just sleep in the bed. Bring a couple 2 foot 2x2s and a tarp. If the sky is clear, sleep under the stars. If it looks like rain, throw the 2x2s in the post holes in your truck bed and throw the tarp over. Bring plenty of blankets, it may be NM, but it'll still get pretty cold overnight.

I also bought the Inreach Explorer as I'm going solo this year as well for 4th season Colorado cow hunt. Haven't used it yet, but I think my wife will sleep easier at night knowing that we have two-way communication if something happens.

Finally, assuming you've never seen an elk cut up, download videos of the gutless method to your cell phone. That way, if you forget what to do next, you can pull out your phone and watch the video again even if you're out of reach.
 
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goinhuntn

Member
Aug 4, 2012
86
1
Good luck Alabama!! I feel your frustration I have a friend who always says he wants to go, but when it comes time to apply for hunts you don't here a word from him!! I started just going solo otherwise I would never get to hunt all the guys I know around where I live don't hunt. The biggest intimidation factor for me the first time solo was sitting in camp at night by yourself its awfully quiet!! The more I go the less it bothers me. I hunt alone, but at night its nice to have someone to talk to. Now I bring a radio & listen to music passes the evening time nicely. Go have fun you won't regret it!!
 
Finsandtines

Finsandtines

Very Active Member
Jun 16, 2015
586
177
Florida
Whichever day it is, I will be at work, so you should definitely go and enjoy yourself. I will be there with you in spirit! Think of the satisfaction when you tag out!
 
Zim

Zim

Very Active Member
Feb 28, 2011
738
67
LaPorte, IN
Would have been better to have several elk hunting trips behind your belt before drawing a Gila tag. But I bet you have little experience considering you haven't camped anywhere over 3 days and you are actually worried about hunting solo. I have been applying out west for 20 years and have been almost always solo since none of my friends here in the Midwest play the points game. You would have a much better chance if you had more experience. Either way, I would not worry about going solo. Look at the positives. Anyway, the last time I had a hunting partner bailed I stuck this bull in the high country of New Mexico anyway. If he'd been with me, many bad things could have happened to blow my stalk.
 

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