If you have everything set up for you/ your bow/ your shooting style...etc, and you have that thing dialed in...why change? IMHO, you look at 20 years ago, guys were killing elk with WAY less technology, speed, etc.
Shot placement is key to success. Keep practicing with your current setup...
Doing the right thing is not always easy, but it is admirable that you didn't give in to the temptation and try to hide it. Good on you! Besides, now you can tell your significant other that you have helped families in need, so you should get a free pass for next year's season too!
I see where you are from, and we have probably had the same experience, with the same 5x5, in the same forest!!! I had a 5x5 a few years back do the exact same thing to me. I had a 3 foot shooting lane that he put his head into and took a bite of grass....one more step and he would have felt...
I would suggest whatever boot you feel comfortable with. I personally like the lace up because I never know what terrain I am hiking in...or out of. Generally speaking, I can intend to hunt and follow game trails, and take the path of least resistance, but when it comes to cutting the distance...
I had that happen in WY a few years back. I had no idea these two guys from Many, Many, Many states away, were chasing the same bugle I was, until I saw them up on the mountain. The elk wandered off and we both visited about what we could have done different. They told me where they were...
As previously noted, using block ice can help. I typically get very possessive of the kids' used milk jugs starting in August. Clean them out good, fill with water and freeze. I have had some split, but for the most part, they will stay intact. right before you leave for your trip, take them...
I like to be dead on at 250 yards. However, I will shoot at 100, 200, 250, 300, 400 and 500 while practicing, to know exactly what my bullet will do. If I need to make 100 yard shot, I know where to hold. If I need a 400 yard shot, I know where to hold.
I usually will tape a "drop Chart" to...
As a NR hunter, with the price of tags, travel, etc....I have no problem taking the first legal elk. I know what I prefer, and if I have an option between a bull and a cow, I would take the bull. BUT, if a cow presents the first, best, or most ethical shot. No question.
I would rather go...
Just a quick question on this, so I can be clear. If I don't draw in the first round (on a preference point draw), I would not be guaranteed my second choice would I?
Isn't the second choice unit a draw too?
IMHO, elk hunting is all about the experience. I did a DIY hunt and ended up killing a nice bull. Granted it is not the caliber of bull you find on the cover of all the magazines, but for me, I got so much personal gratification out of the whole thing, that I could never justify spending that...