San Juan Mountain Elk Hunting
The San Juan Mountains, located in Southwestern Colorado, are reported to have some of the best elk hunting anywhere. It is estimated that Colorado’s elk population is just under 300,000, and it is also estimated that Colorado has two times more elk than any other state. This makes San Juan Mountain elk hunting popular for those elk hunters looking to bag that record bull. However, since some of the peaks of the San Juan Mountains rise to 14,000 feet and there are many slopes and ridges, it is important for elk hunters to be in good physical condition before heading into the San Juan Mountains. Covering about 12,000 square miles in Colorado, much of the San Juan Mountains are very remote with some areas, approximately 40 square miles, having no paved roads. Much of the area is accessible only by jeep or by foot. The San Juan Mountains are located in Game Management Units 70 through 78.
Rules and Regulations
As with any other type of hunting, rules and restrictions apply to San Juan Mountain elk hunting. Licenses are required for both in-state and out-of-state hunters. Licenses can be purchased prior to the hunting season at most sports equipment retailers as well as the Colorado Division of Wildlife offices. After the hunting season has begun, licenses can only be purchased through the Division of Wildlife. On-line licenses are also available. The 2008 license fee is $525, and according to the Division of Wildlife, licenses sold until April 2009 will continue to be sold at the 2008 license fee amounts. Hunting hours being thirty minutes before sunrise and conclude thirty minutes after sunset. Only those elk with four points or more are legitimate targets. Elk hunting season begins at the end of August and concludes in mid-November with specific dates set and seasons set for: archery, muzzle loading, and rifle hunting.
The Hunt
Before heading out into the mountains, there are few things that will be important to consider in creating an enjoyable and successful elk hunt. First, it is important to know where to find elk. Elk are usually found where there is food and cover. In dry weather, elk are more likely to be found in the higher elevations. During cold weather, elk are more likely to be found in the lower elevations. Secondly, because the weather conditions can change fairly quickly while elk hunting, it will be important to be well-prepared. Not only is it necessary to be in good physical condition, but having the right clothing and gear is essential. San Juan Mountain elk hunting can be challenging to even the most experienced elk hunter due to terrain and weather conditions. Thirdly, mapping out the area of the hunt will be important because when that record bull is snagged there is still the challenge of getting the bull back to camp.
Knowing the rules and regulations and preparing adequately ahead of time can lead to a successful and pleasurable elk hunt in the mountains of Colorado.