A Western Elk Hunt Breakdown | Gun Talk Hunt

Published on November 13, 2023
Duration: 29:49

This episode details Ryan Gresham's elk hunting trip in Idaho, focusing on the challenges of backcountry hunting, gear choices, and a critical shot opportunity. Gresham, an experienced hunter, shares insights into the terrain, weather, and the mental game of hunting. The discussion highlights the importance of preparedness, the effectiveness of specific gear like trekking poles and a Benelli Lupo rifle, and the lessons learned from a missed shot opportunity.

Quick Summary

Ryan Gresham's Idaho elk hunt in a remote wilderness area accessible only by plane or horse presented significant challenges due to steep, deadfall-ridden terrain. Key gear like trekking poles proved invaluable for stability, while the Benelli Lupo rifle offered reliable performance. A critical shot opportunity on a bull elk, though seemingly well-aimed, resulted in a miss, underscoring the importance of a stable rest and preparedness for tracking challenges.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Idaho Elk Hunt
  2. 01:02Sulfur Creek Ranch & Access
  3. 03:09Camp Elevation & Daily Climbs
  4. 03:49Hunting Weather Conditions
  5. 04:19Wildlife Sightings: Elk & Mule Deer
  6. 05:00Day Pack Essentials & Gear Choices
  7. 06:11Vortex Spotting Scope Review
  8. 07:03Spotting & Stalking vs. Glassing
  9. 08:11Using Spotting Scope from Camp
  10. 09:00Unsuccessful Hunt Spoiler
  11. 09:36Benelli Lupo Rifle Feature
  12. 10:53Range Ready Studios DPI Course
  13. 11:49The Hunt: Terrain & Effort
  14. 13:13Encountering Bulls
  15. 13:43Trekking Poles: A Game Changer
  16. 14:45Lunch Break & Ridge Exploration
  17. 15:29Bull Elk Sighting
  18. 15:39Benelli Lupo Dial System
  19. 16:35The Shot Setup
  20. 19:05Post-Shot Analysis & Uncertainty
  21. 20:06Blood Trail Search
  22. 20:36Rifle Accuracy Check
  23. 21:12Possible Reasons for Missed Shot
  24. 22:15Takeaways & Lessons Learned
  25. 23:00Reflecting on the Miss
  26. 23:36Hunt Difficulty & Endurance
  27. 24:09Gear to Leave Behind
  28. 24:43Trekking Poles Revisited
  29. 25:36Falls & Entertainment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary challenge of hunting at Sulfur Creek Ranch in Idaho?

The primary challenge is the remote location and limited access. Sulfur Creek Ranch is situated in a wilderness area accessible only by small aircraft landing on a gravel airstrip or by horse, with no roads leading in.

What are the key features of the Benelli Lupo rifle mentioned in the video?

The Benelli Lupo rifle is highlighted for its Progressive Comfort Control System, which reduces felt recoil, and its aesthetically pleasing Italian design, similar to a Lamborghini. It's available in various calibers, including the .270 used in the hunt.

Why were trekking poles considered essential for this elk hunt?

Trekking poles proved essential for navigating the extremely steep, side-hilling, and deadfall-covered terrain. They provided crucial stability, aided in climbing, and helped prevent falls, significantly improving the hunting experience.

What lessons were learned from the missed shot opportunity on the bull elk?

The missed shot highlighted the importance of a stable shooting rest, even at 80 yards. It also emphasized that factors like unseen branches, animal movement, or a high shot placement can lead to a lack of blood sign, requiring thorough tracking and analysis.

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