Long Range Pursuit | S5 E17 Wyoming High Country Elk with Mike Davidson

Published on March 30, 2020
Duration: 22:08

This video documents a challenging DIY public land elk hunt in Wyoming's high country. The hunters, including Mike Davidson, face difficult terrain and weather, encountering various elk bulls and wolves. The hunt culminates in a successful long-range shot on a mature bull elk at approximately 1100-1250 yards, highlighting the importance of accurate shooting, wind compensation, and perseverance in challenging hunting conditions.

Quick Summary

DIY public land elk hunts in Wyoming present challenges like difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and the need for self-sufficiency. Hunters must be prepared for extensive hiking, long-range shooting, and the physical labor of packing out harvested game, often in remote areas far from immediate support.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Opening Scene
  2. 00:20End of Filming Day 1
  3. 01:16Hike to Skyline
  4. 01:32Spotting Elk
  5. 02:52Morning Glassing
  6. 04:00Outfitter Camp Sighting
  7. 04:20Moving to New Drain
  8. 05:16Hiking and Spotting Elk
  9. 05:57Bachelor Herd Observation
  10. 07:07Midday Nap and Plan
  11. 08:34Elk Movement and Positioning
  12. 09:05Target Identification
  13. 10:01Bull Elk Sighting Near Camp
  14. 11:03Elk Moving Towards Clearing
  15. 11:41Range Estimation and First Shot
  16. 12:10Second Shot and Assessment
  17. 13:32Post-Shot Analysis
  18. 14:14Long Range Shot Attempt 2
  19. 14:45Successful Long Range Shot
  20. 15:31Ballistics Discussion
  21. 16:00Post-Hunt Excitement
  22. 16:44Beginning the Pack Out
  23. 17:27Elk Recovery and Field Dressing
  24. 18:46Meat Processing
  25. 19:20Gear Issues During Pack Out
  26. 19:55Caching Meat Near Camp
  27. 21:04Morning After and Pack Out
  28. 21:29Departure

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key challenges of a DIY public land elk hunt in Wyoming?

DIY public land elk hunts in Wyoming present challenges like difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and the need for self-sufficiency. Hunters must be prepared for extensive hiking, long-range shooting, and the physical labor of packing out harvested game, often in remote areas far from immediate support.

How important is wind compensation in long-range elk hunting?

Wind compensation is absolutely critical for successful long-range elk hunting. Even a slight breeze can significantly impact bullet trajectory at distances of 1000 yards or more. Hunters must use tools like wind meters and understand ballistic data to make accurate adjustments for wind drift.

What is the typical process for packing out an elk after a successful hunt?

Packing out an elk involves a physically demanding process of field dressing the animal, quartering it into manageable loads, and transporting the meat back to a vehicle or camp. This often requires multiple trips, especially in rugged terrain, and can take many hours or even days depending on the distance and conditions.

What role does technology play in modern long-range hunting?

Modern technology plays a significant role in long-range hunting. This includes advanced rangefinders with ballistic compensation, accurate rifles and ammunition, and reliable optics. These tools help hunters make precise shots at extended distances, increasing success rates and ethical harvesting.

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