The
Sacramento archery elk hunts are conducted throughout the first three weeks of
September and are the most physically demanding of all the hunts. Elite’s
guides are aggressive in locating and pursuing bugling bulls and you need to be
able to go where the bulls are if you are going to be successful. Previous
hunters will attest to the steepness and magnitude of our terrain, but can also
tell you about the quality of the elk that reside in these mountains. Come
prepared and you will experience the hunt of a lifetime.
The primary hunting tactics are calling, spot and stalk, and hunting over water. Covering ground on foot for multiple days in the rugged terrain is the norm for a high-country archery hunt.
Hunters who show up in shape can generally expect to get shot opportunities at P&Y caliber bulls. Although any bull is a trophy with a bow, the 260 to 360-class bulls are the object of this hunt. Hunting for a 300+ bull is a realistic goal. On the average, 4 out of every 5 prepared hunters will get that opportunity.
The Sacramento archery hunts will be conducted out of the lodge and pack-in camps. Neither camp offers a better chance at good bulls than the other. It is purely a matter of how you would rather hunt.
Anticipated draw success for the Sacramento archery elk hunt is 1 out of 4 applicants. These draw odds are phenomenal considering the quality of this hunt.
The
Best Time to Hunt
The most common question asked about archery elk hunting is, "Which time is the best?" The truth is there is no "best" time. The first week occurs during the pre-rut and the majority of the bulls are generally by themselves and mostly quiet. The bulls are mobile at this time locating cow herds and just waiting for the first cows to come into estrus. Overall, you will generally hear less bugling during this week and the bulls are less aggressive at coming to the calls. However, there are advantages also. The bulls are typically by themselves which makes it easier to spot and stalk without all the cows. Some bulls respond to calling very passively at this time and just slip in quietly to see what's going on. Most hunters who hunt the first week always seem to wish they had come later thinking the hunting would be easier if the bulls were bugling more. The proverbial "grass-is-greener wherever I'm not" theory. In reality, over the last five years, the most shot opportunities at big bulls have occurred during the early seasons. It seems you are working harder for the shot opportunity since you are not hearing as much bugling, but the opportunities seem to always come.
By
the last week of the season, the majority of the bulls are with cows as the rut
is in full swing. You now face an entirely different animal and hunting
conditions. The bulls are more vocal as they move and communicate with their
cows. The satellite bulls are also more vocal as they shadow the herds and
aggravate the herd bulls. Seems like the hunting should now be easy. Not
so fast my friends. The herd bulls are becoming increasingly vocal but yet they
are now extremely apprehensive at leaving their herd and coming to any type of
call. They will talk more than they did in the first week, but the chances of
getting a shot are not any better. The satellite bulls are easier to work at this
time since they are still by themselves, mobile and active. Don't think that
just because a bull is a satellite, they're little. Many satellites are 300+
bulls and Elite's guides have noticed a recent trend of big bulls staying by
themselves throughout the rut. It seems that these "rogue bulls" have decided it
is easier to let a lesser bull work and sweat over keeping the cow herds and
then when a cow comes into estrus, move in and take care of the business at hand
and then move off looking for another. So the last week doesn't mean there
are not chances at big bulls. Again there is no "best time", just a different
set of obstacles to overcome.
Archery Statistics
Out of 22 archery hunters in 2002:
* 16 (73%) had shot opportunities at 4-point or better bulls
* 10 (46%) had shot opportunities at 6-point or better bulls
* 7 (32%) harvested a 5-point or better bull
* 5 (23%) harvested a 6-point or better bullOut of 14 archery hunters in 2003:
* 12 (86%) had shot opportunities at 4-point or better bulls
* 7 (50%) had shot opportunities at 6-point or better bulls
* 5 (36%) had shot opportunities at 300+ bulls
* 3 (21%) harvested a 5-point or better bullOut of 15 archery hunters in 2004:
* 14 (93%) had shot opportunities at 5-point or better bulls
* 7 (47%) had shot opportunities at 6-point or better bulls
* 8 (53%) harvested a 5-point or better bull
* 3 (20%) harvested a 6-point or better bullOut of 21 archery hunters in 2005:
* 18 (86%) had shot opportunities at 4-point or better bulls
* 13 (62%) had shot opportunities at 6-point or better bulls
* 6 (29%) harvested a 5-point or better bull
* 5 (24%) harvested a 6-point or better bullOut of 12 archery hunters in 2006:
* 10 (83%) had shot opportunities at 4-point or better bulls
* 6 (50%) had shot opportunities at 6-point or better bulls
* 4 (33%) harvested a 5-point or better bull
* 2 (16%) harvested a 6-point or better bullOut of 15 archery hunters in 2007:
* 14 (94%) had shot opportunities at 6-point or better bulls
* 10 (67%) harvested a 5-point or better bull
* 9 (60%) harvested a 6-point or better bull**2007 was the first year with 1 on 1 guides exclusively for all archery hunts**
Archery
References
Matthew Debnam, OR 318-801-0503 "I would highly recommend Elite Outfitters to bowhunters of any experience level. This was my first time elk hunting and I harvested a once-in-a-lifetime bull. From daylight of the first morning, I was on big bulls. Kudos to Elite for an unforgettable memory and invaluable lesson in successful elk hunting!"
Brady Arview, IL, 662-275-3643 "Great place and great hunting!"
John Edwards, PA 610-760-0973 "Not a hunt for the faint of heart or body. If you can keep up with your guide, you'll have the hunt of a lifetime. I saw more elk and a lot bigger bulls here than a private ranch hunt I was on in Colorado. I'm hunting elk with Elite every year I can go."
Brian Kornblatt, GA 912-897-9131 "Be physically prepared. Keep everything on your bow as simple as possible. Listen and trust your guide! Be patient. Great area and guides. I learned more about elk hunting this week than all other previous hunts combined!"
Matthew Matuszak, MI 810-599-6024 "Be ready for the best elk hunt possible!!! Prepare mentally, physically and shooting."
Mike Bowie, VA 703-754-3385 "Get in shape. Be VERY familiar with your equipment. We were in bulls very morning and every evening. Get ready for a great hunt, these guys know elk."
Dan Rosenthal, WI 608-935-2784 "Get in shape! Practice shooting to 60 yards. Great hunt!"
Gary Hoover, LA 318-537-1870 "The hunt can't be any better. But you better be in shape and ready to work your tail off."
Brad Graham, IN 502-376-1909 "High quality hunt with a bunch of good people. You've got to experience it to believe it!"
Shawn Schmidtke, OR 503-631-8815 "I've hunted elk for several years, and this was the best elk hunt I have ever been on. Quality animals, quality guides, quality lodging and food. The terrain is rough, so showing up in shape is not just advised, but a must!"
Gary Johnson, CO 719-564-6275 "Even though we didn't harvest, these guys did their best to make our hunt a success. And they did!"
Rusty
Heitzman, TX 940-686-5410 "Top of the line outfit. Don't bother checking
with other outfitters, just call Elite. Quality game, great camp and super
people."
Eric Haeker, MO 816-369-2080 "I have been on guided hunts where elk were tough to find. With Johnny's skills as a guide, I was in elk every day. I am still high as a kite. I plan to apply again if they will have me."
Keith Butrilas, IL 309-337-8014 "Great hunt! Tons of big bulls. I will be back. Now I want a 6x6!"
Mark Clark, NY 845-361-3429 "The country is beautiful and the bugling bulls were breathtaking. I recommend this hunt and Elite to anyone in the market for a great elk adventure. I am hooked, as predicted. I really loved the whole experience."
D.T. Bosher, VA 804-784-2658 - "Lots of big bulls in a true wilderness hunt. Buy the best equipment, get in great physical shape. The hunt of a lifetime."
Rick Brown, AL 256-233-3486 - "This hunt is enjoyable if you are in shape. It's tough if you are not. I've done it each way. When you think you're in shape, start training. Elite will put you on elk. Top-notch outfitter and guides. Beautiful country and quality elk."
Jimmy Boone, KY 502-896-9513 - "Listen closely to what every reference says. You must show up in great shape or bring several books. I look forward every year to hunting with Elite because the elk hunting is as good as it gets anywhere."
Jon Kirby, AR 479-968-1405 - "This is a great hunt with great people. A DO NOT miss opportunity for the true elk hunter."
Joe Carpenter, TN 615-373-9333 - "The guides know what they are doing! The terrain is challenging, but adds to the hunting experience. Don't attempt the hunt if you're not in shape."
Ty
Osman, TN 615-661-7917 - "Great area, tough terrain,
good guides who work hard. Good quality game. Be in great shape and practice
shooting to 60 yards."
Bill Payne, MA 508-238-4124 - "Get in shape! Be prepared to hunt hard. You will see some trophy animals and beautiful country."
Todd Carpenter, TN 615-804-2527 - "Rough stuff. Believe what others say about being in shape. There are lots of elk in there, but you have to be able to get to them. Wonderful staff. A truly amazing experience."
Kelly Freeman, AR 479-858-7123 - "From the trail ride in, expect pure adventure. The scenery is gorgeous, the terrain is rugged, and the elk are there. Johnny and his crew are a first-class organization top to bottom. Get in shape."
Steve Franchini, CO 970-565-2461 - "The hunt of a lifetime. I will be back."
Joe Willingham Jr., TX 512-455-6671 "Get in the best shape you can. Come to town a couple days early, if possible, to adjust to the altitude and you will enjoy a "true wilderness" archery elk hunt. I saw nice bulls every day and had a 370-class monster at 40 yards but no shot... I've been on several guided hunts in 5 states and this was the best one of all. Period."
Les Robertson, IL 618-242-7430 - "Get in shape, don't give up. You will see plenty of elk and get an opportunity for a shot."
Allen Rusk, IL 618-392-2881 - "New Mexico is a great hunting opportunity. The area is rugged but very beautiful. Get in shape and you will have a great experience."
Gerry
Randall, TX 512-249-7769 - "Truly a solid hunt.
Great guides. Top physical condition and then some is a must. The bulls are
there if you can catch your breath long enough to get to them!"
Mike Ritter Jr., MI 574-220-6505 - "Plan on a lot of close calls and when it does come together, it will happen fast. changes constantly, watch it!"
Robert Maynard, OR 541-367-5815 - "The country is breathtaking - in more than one respect. Be prepared for long days and lots of bulls. The altitude was the hardest thing for me. I am 65 years old and in good physical shape, but living at 500 feet, I couldn't prepare myself for the altitude. The people in camp were excellent. Would love to do it again."
Mike Unruh, CO 970-668-8726 - "This hunt will punish you for sitting on the couch drinking beer and watching TV. Preparation and persistence will pay off on this hunt. Anything less and you're likely to be miserable. Concentrate and make your shot count when the bull of your dreams shows up!"
David Kirchhoff, TX 512-918-3921 - "This is a hunt in which you will see elk! Be prepared to hunt hard everyday. Be in top condition."
Bob Walker, IA 660-886-5396 - "Get in the best shape you've ever been and you'll have the best hunt of your life. The guides will get you there if you can keep up with them."
Fred Gruender, WI 608-725-5075 - "Get in good physical shape, have your boots broke in, and enjoy your hunt. It goes too fast. I want to thank all of you at Elite for making my hunt a great pleasure."
Billy Sparks, TX 281-337-6609 - "If you are a weekend hunter, stay at home. But if you really enjoy the outdoors and the thrill of a great hunt, this is the hunt for you. But be prepared by being in great shape."
Brent McDonald, WI 608-725-5229 - “Do not show up for the pack-in camp unless you’re in good to excellent condition! The hunt was everything they said it would be if you show up ready to hunt.”
Jamie Jones, IN 812-443-4112 - "Get in shape! Be prepared to hunt hard for 5 days. Have quality gear and be ready to go back, because it is very addicting."
Slick Kirschbaum,
WI 920-568-0164 - "The way hunting is supposed to be. A totally "fair chase"
experience all the way"
Vince Trometer, IA 712-274-1320 - "Get in shape because this is a very demanding hunt. If you show up in shape and the bulls are talking, you will experience the hunt of a lifetime."
John Rolison, IN 260-637-0647 - "Don't bother showing up unless you are in excellent shape. Be prepared to hunt hard and you will experience the hunt of your dreams. The quality and quantity of bulls in this area is something an elk hunter dreams of. Elite will get you on bulls...if you're ready."
Gary Wiest, WI 608-725-5057 - "Get in good shape, because you will see a lot of elk. If you can't get around, it will be a long week."
Mike Kruncos, WI 715-693-1983 - "Lots of elk, great guides and great food. Get in shape, prepare to hunt, and it will be a hunt to remember."
Randy Kee, MI 616-641-2225 - "First of all: Get in shape and know your equipment. Be prepared for five hard days of hunting. I had opportunities at bulls every day of the hunt and took my 5x6 bull in the last 15 minutes of the hunt. Johnny, Brian, the staff and guides give 100% of themselves to make your hunt successful. The rest is up to you. Don't disappoint them. Fantastic hunt."
Michael Tardella, NY 203-312-0321 - "Get in shape. If you're prepared, you will have a great hunt. I will definitely be back."
Brett Aurand, PA 610-268-8164 - "Be in better shape than the minimum that Elite recommends. There is more game than your dream hunt would ever have."
David Rauber, NY 607-962-0169 - "This hunt is every bit as physically demanding as they advertise, but you’ll be into good bulls everyday."
Mark Brown, MS 601-847-5251 - "Get in the best shape possible. If you don’t hold your guide back, he will put you on several quality bulls. Even though I never released an arrow, It was the hunt of a lifetime."
Tom Benninger,
KY 502-425-9700 - "It is a great hunt in a good camp with good people and
everyone works very hard."
Matt Dillon, MI 989-465-1839 - "The elk are there, so get in shape and be ready to hike. You will be on your feet all day, Hope for cool weather."
Todd Simonson,
WI 262-884-9954 - “Solid hunt. I had a shot opportunity on a quality 340-class
6x6. Guides were good and knowledgeable. I would come again to this hunt.”
John Swanson, IL 618-262-2526 - “ If you are
interested in hunting the Wilderness you will need to be in exceptional physical
condition. The quality of elk in this area is second to none. This was an
awesome hunt.”
Randy Smith, IL 618-445-2624 - “You need to be in
shape! Outfitter did exactly as promised. Good area, good time, good hunt, good
people! Thanks Johnny, for making a dream come true.”
Adam Hokens, MN 952-346-9789 - “Area has plenty of
elk and there are trophy bulls. There were no other hunters around except for
those with Elite. Area is physically demanding but manageable for someone who is
in shape.”
Greg Erickson, NE 402-238-2376 - “Get in shape!
Mike
Kruncos, WI 715-693-1983 - “Good numbers of 300-class bulls. Great camp, great
guides. Come in the best physical shape you can and hope for cool weather. I had
a great time.”
Ron Brown, OH 740-369-7228 - “When you’re in the
best shape of your life, start training. You’ll be in heaven but at times you’ll
feel like you’re in hell!”
Michael Gorman, WI 262-859-3100 - “Be in shape and
stick with your guide. Be ready to control your emotions on perhaps the best
trophy hunt you will ever experience! I can’t say enough about my experience. A
first-class hunt with no surprises.”
Dave Delong, MI 734-856-4416 - “This was the best
hunting trip I have ever been on! I may not have shot an elk, but I had an
excellent hunting experience. We saw lots of big bulls. My trip was everything I
had expected and more. Looking forward to hunting with Elite Outfitters in the
future!”
Todd Wiest, WI 608-725-5283 - “Listen to the advice
they give you on being in shape because you will see a lot of elk, but if you
can’t physically get to the elk it will be a long hunt."
Dann
Walling, MI 517-569-3410 - "If you think you're in
shape, you're not. If you're willing to bust your butt, you're going to have the
best hunt of your life!"
Ed Narramore, KY 606-832-4862 - "Don't come here
unless you're physically fit. If you show up in shape, you will be on the hunt
of a lifetime. The accommodations, meals and guides were second to none. This
was my second year hunting elk with Elite and I'm putting in for my third. Truly
a fabulous hunt."
2009 Archery Prices
6-Day Sacramento Archery Elk Hunt
$4900 (1 on 1)
Beginning in 2007, Elite went to 1 on 1 hunts exclusively for all archery hunts. The 1 on 1 hunts doubled overall success rates and tripled success rates on 6-point bulls compared to past seasons!
2009 Archery Seasons
Sep 1-6, 2009
Sep 9-14, 2009
Sep 17-22, 2009
2009 Draw License
$768
Elite has implemented a mandatory broadhead policy for 2008. Please see the "Policies Page" below.
Archery Hunt Equipment List
Contract and Booking Information
Click on the Links below for Specific Hunt Information
| Sacramento Archery Elk |
| Sacramento Muzzleloader Elk |
|
Sacramento Rifle Elk |
| Draw-System Hunting | Private-Land Hunting | |
| Valles Caldera Hunting | Unit-Wide Permit Hunting |