Congrats! That's cool for sure. We actually have a very small elk population here in Virginia too, down in the very southwestern corner of the state. I think they issue a couple of tags every couple years or something. I'm not really sure. There's been talk about relocating some to the mountains where I live. I'm actually not sure why they haven't yet, because I feel like a small population could sustain itself and could do quite well around here.
Went to Elk County 6-7 years back to check the elks out. Went to the viewing area and saw absolutely nothing. Then on our way out we saw a bunch of cars stopped at a house. Two huge bulls were just hanging out in a backyard. Pretty cool experience and good luck!!!
Good luck, Ryan! Hope you are able to score...I'd love to go on an elk hunt one day. They just started the restoration process this year in SW VA. 11 elk were released in May and they plan on more releases to total 75 elk over the next few years. They want a population of 400 or so. No hunting will be allowed until 4 years after the latest stocking. I hope this thing takes off like Kentucky's restoration did. How cool would it be to hunt elk in Virginia?!?! Here's a video of the release. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N8cDrCy1TQ
I applied for a permit for several years. When I moved to NY from Maryland... I for some reason never applied again.
Well after 2 trips, I'm beginning to get a feel for things up there. The 1st trip left me a little overwhelmed and feeling a bit like I was searching for a needle in a haystack. The 2nd trip I started talking to the locals and they have been extremely helpful. I got into a few areas with good fresh sign, and I think I have a plan for my hunt. Although I seem to have found the areas the elk frequent and travel between, I'm still a bit hesitant to get too excited. Optimistic yes, but not confident.
Ryan, I'm very jealous!!! That's a great opportunity and would be awesome to be able to hunt those beautiful animals that close to home. I'm sure if you put one down, you'll be more than capable of getting her out. CONGRATS on a great draw, and I hope you truly enjoy that opportunity!!!
So it appears to me.... that within a few weeks we'll all be invited toRybos for some elk steaks. LOL I wish you the very best. You mentioned talking to the locals. I'd also talk to the DEC people who watch over these critters 12 months a year.
I leave in a few days. Glad this storm in barreling thru now and not next week. I've started my final preparations, packing gear, making lists for the weeklong trip (or hopefully less). I am excited yet a little overwhelmed since it's a 100% solo undertaking, including getting it out of the woods. I have a plan, and am in great shape so we'll see. I have to kill one first though.
Ryan, the biggest mistake I see a lot of guys make with elk is putting them on a pedestal. Elk hunting is as hard as you make it IMHO. Take it slow, think about your next move, and trust your gut. You will get it done! Sent from my ADR6350 using Tapatalk 2
Guys I know I am New on here but I was up there this past summer. Here are some pick of a 6x6. An yes that is a radio collar on the bull. An for drawing the tag for a pa guy it is stupid not to spend the $12.50
No. I'm going to be pretty much off the grid. There is no cell reception where I'm going. I'm hoping to find a payphone just to check in with family to let them know I'm alive.
The elk in KY have done very well since the initial release in the late 90's. KDFWR estimates we have 10,000. I think it's probably more than that. It's a cool experience when your on the stand and you hear a bull screaming or a heard moves through. I knew PA had some elk but didn't know they did a draw. May have to put in for it if out of staters are allowed.
