Anyone with experience?

[ninjasloth]

First of all I'd just like to say thanks for taking a minute to read my post, this is a great site and it has already offered me a great deal of information. Here is my problem: 2008 will be my first year hunting in Alberta and I don't know ANY bowhunters here! I have a little bit of experience hunting Ontario whitetails but am still relatively new to bowhunting in general. So far all of my success stories come from hours of practice at the lanes or on 3D shoots. Is there anyone out there who needs a hunting buddy? I spend far more time scouting prospects in the pre season than I ever do during legal times and I do enjoy the peace and solitude of it, however I am missing what I think would be best learned from hunting with experienced shooters. I have almost reached the point where I'm dreading taking a good sized animal because it'll mean that i've got to carry it out myself. Any response would be greatly appreciated, and thanks for your time.

Ross

[Grunter]

Welcome to Hunting in Alberta! I'm sure that there are people willing to share some time and experience with you... maybe share a little more about yourself to help get things in the motion for you:

- What areas do you want to hunt/prefer? Mountains, Foothills, Prairie, Private vs. Public land
- How far you willing to drive for a hunt?
- What animals are you interested in?
- What skill level do you feel you're at with hunting and with archery?
- How can you contribute (transportation, field accomodation, calling, etc.)?
- Do you prefer stand hunting? Spot and stalk with a lot of hiking?

[ninjasloth]

I am really willing to hunt anything and anywhere, however I would prefer mountainous, or foothills regions. I am a very active outdoors kind of person and spot and stalk hunting in these regions would suit me best. I've spent a few years chasing whitetailed deer, but in Alberta I'd be more interested in elk or mule deer. It is also my understanding that moose tags are more easily obtained here, than the areas in northern Ontario that I'm used to. I am willing to travel to any corner of this province, provided that I've had time to scout the area, or am hunting with someone familiar with the terrain and animals. I've been shooting 3d since the day I bought my bow, and although I am aware that this does not make a good hunter, my groups from 40 yards consistently lead to torn fletching or broken arrows. Unfortunately I haven't much to offer in the way of calling, as my experience level is still quite low, although I can provide transportation, and a great willingness to learn, which for me is best done through experience. Thanks again for your time.

Cheers,
Ross

[jimhenderson]

Hey Ross, one of the great things about bow hunting in Alberta is there still zones in the 300's that offer great draw free moose hunting opportunities,not to mention great elk hunting too! We'll have to keep in touch, when the time comes,I can usually get a plan together for what ever might come to call!You mentioned somthing about a trip to the Yukon. Is it a hunting trip?:)

[ninjasloth]

The trip to Yukon is for a backpacking trip, unfortunately no hunting there at least not this year. I'll also be checking out some property as I would love to move up there. Well Jim we'll definately stay in touch as I refuse to come home empty handed this year. I've already spent about 6 days here and there scouting for elk up in 429 (down in 429 for you I guess) and all signs point to lots and lots.

Cheers,
Ross