I would liek to see some type of elk management area where 

 archeyr only hunting is allowed on a drawing only basis, similar 

 ot the CM Russell management area for rifle hunting. 



I've noticed that elk in rut are in areas that usually bothered 

 by traffic noise and all terrain vehicles. Areas that I 

 previously hunted too have had new roads built in or near that 

 area have psuhed elk into areas further away or have caused them 

 to be more 'leary' of man. Many areas that once sued to be easy 

 to bugle in bulls and cows have since become treasured many many 

 more hunters. It now takes more time to scout and patients in 

 order to get a shot at game. 



In regards to the elk season alternatives now being discussed. I 

 would like to see archery season shortend toward the end so as to 

 allow the bulls better time to insure a full mating. I fear that 

 some cows are not being mated. I think that a longer time 

 between archery and rifle season might insure a better or more 

 complete mating season. Closing some areas will only divert 

 pressure to other areas. I see more scattered, small groups of 

 elk (cows) and not a sign of bulls or bull for great distances. 



In general I feel that Bull elk are less vocal (bugle) than 10 

 years ago. Sign indicates they are there, however, so many 

 bowhunters are now bugling that the elk have become more wary. 

 Too many hunters (not sportsmen) don't take the time to practice 

 but still go out during the archery season. I would favor an 

 either or season whereby one chooses his weapon. However, since I 

 also enjoy hunting whitetail during the Rut I would like to hunt 

 them in November with a bow as well. 



An archery competency testing program would be difficult to 

 administer, however, it would improve the quality of the 

 bowhunter in the woods by weeding out those who are not 

 reasonably serious. Recommendations for Elk hunting season (1988) 

 by FW & P personnel in Region 1 this January was a step in the 

 right direction. I may not agree with their recommendations or 

 the data used to make them, but at least it shows some real 

 activity & concern for managing our Elk. 



it is a shame to bother elk during breeding. Those who take 6 

 point or better should pay $100.00 trophy. Roads should be closed 

 to archers same a those closed to rifle hunters, (state should 

 not give away our hunting to out-of staters and rich through the 

 outfitters . ) 



Once again - Elk should be breeding - not being chased by hunters 

 when their breeding 



In the last 7 or 8 years I have seen more & more hunters on my 

 outings. The area's where the Bull's were responsive to bugling 



