This is rough…

[WapitiTalk1]

This is the first year in many many years that I have not been out in the elk woods in September; its killing me. Wasn’t able to get an OOS archery elk tag and well, the WA early archery season isn’t that good so I’ll be hunting the early WA smokepole season in early October. It’s only a week long but god willing and the creeks don’t rise, I’ll bring a fat Roosey/RM Elk hybrid home for dinner. Seeing Saddlesore’s success has inspired me! I’ve never knocked an elk down with a muzzleloader. My hunting buddy of some 20 years can’t make it this year so it’ll be a solo adventure for old WapitiTalk1. As normal, I’ll get to the target area a few days early, set up camp and sniff around. Wish me luck

[Lefty]

Go get them.
It's hard missing out on something that has been a seasonal regular most of your life. Keep yourself busy doing other activities of interest.
Like maybe showing up on a forum

[saddlesore]

Last year was the first season I missed in over 40 years. It is indeed tough

[7mmfan]

Good luck RJ! Same for me. Baby is going to show up sometime in the next 3-4 weeks so I'm home this year. Maybe get some blacktail hunting in end of season.

[Billy Goat]

same. I burned too much PTO fishing in Alaska - a glorious 3 week trip with the wife - but it didnt leave me enough time for fall mountain hunting.

[Billy Goat]

same. I burned too much PTO fishing in Alaska - a glorious 3 week trip with the wife - but it didnt leave me enough time for fall mountain hunting.

[Lefty]

I had to run home yesterday. My father-in-law is not doing well which is really affected my wife.

The doctor made some interesting suggestions about my father-in-law's existing situation.

Just passed mid-September and the woods sure are quiet, regarding elk and hunters.