The 2010 Elk Season is Underway!

August 31, 2010

The archery opener kicked off the big game seasons this past Saturday, marking the beginning of the 2010 seasons in Colorado. Archery hunters from all over the United States have taken to the high country, in pursuit of elk and mule deer. 

Warm weather has marked the beginning of the season. The wet summer monsoons gave way just in time for the hunting season. The rain throughout the summer has provided healthy grazing and browsing for game and the herds are in excellent condition. It looks like warm weather will continue into the beginning of September.

When hunting in warm weather, particularly in the early seasons like archery and muzzleloader, make sure you're out there during the coolest parts of the day ? at daylight and dusk. This could mean hiking or riding several miles in the dark each morning and back to camp each evening. When the weather is hot it is critical to be in your prime hunting area in those cool hours while the animals are up and about. In September when the days are long, it can be difficult motivating yourself to get out there in the dark and stay until dark, but doing so will drastically improve your opportunities. 

Another important consideration for early season hunters is to be prepared for sudden changes in weather. When hunting in Colorado's high country, it's not uncommon to experience hot, sunny weather one day and wake up to several inches of snow the next. Particularly when in remote or wilderness areas, make sure you are prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Finally, have fun and take a ton of photos! September is one of the greatest months to experience Colorado. The days are warm, the nights are crisp and when the aspens begin their color change at the end of the month, you'll swear there's nothing like hunting for elk under that canopy of gold. 

As the hunting seasons unfold, check in here on the news page for updates. We will do our best to bring you news from camp, success stories and hopefully photos when available. Good luck to all the hunters this season!

Winterhawk to be Featured on the Outdoor Channel

August 10, 2010



Tune in or set your DVR as Winterhawk Outfitters appears on the Outdoor Channel. During the 2009 elk season, Archer's Choice hosted by Ralph and Vicki Cianciarulo filmed a hunt with us here at Winterhawk. That episode of Archer's Choice, titled "Winterhawk Wapiti," will appear on the Outdoor Channel on Monday August 23rd at 1:30pm, Friday August 27th at 8am and on Sunday August 29th at noon (all times Eastern). Two hunters on the trip were able to take their first bull elk. It was an exciting hunt you won't want to miss.

We would like to thank Ralph and Vicki of Archer's Choice Media for choosing Winterhawk Outfitters for their elk hunting adventure. If you would like more information on elk hunting with Winterhawk, please call us at 970-487-3011 or contact us online.

Physical Conditioning a Top Priority for Wilderness Elk Hunters

July 13, 2010

With hunting seasons quickly approaching, it's time to kick your workout routine into full gear!

The summer heat may have you in a lull, but don't wait any longer. Wilderness elk hunting is a sport that demands good physical training. Your effort over the next couple months will be critical in the success of your hunt. The better shape you can get yourself into, the more enjoyable this year's elk hunt will be. Keep up a steady routine throughout the summer, using both cardiovascular and weight training exercises. If possible, schedule exercises at least three times a week.

In your weight training, alternate each workout between upper body and lower body exercises. Make sure you're evenly working each muscle group and don't forget your core muscles - abdomen and back. Alternating cardio exercises is also recommended. Try running, swimming and bicycling. Not only does this keep your workouts from becoming monotonous, it helps work different muscle groups as well. 

As your hunting season approaches, begin training with a weighted backpack on steep hills. If you do not live near the mountains, use a local stadium or office building. This type of training will go a long way in preparing you for the rigors of elk country.

If you're not sure where to start, talk to a friend or follow a popular program like Body For Life. However you choose to get in shape, start as soon as possible and be as consistent as you can. When you find yourself in the backcountry chasing elk this year, you'll certainly be glad you did!

Winterhawk Outfitters Receives Archer's Choice Media Endorsement

July 8, 2010



Winterhawk Outfitters is proud to have received the endorsement of Archer's Choice Media (ACM). Here is what Ralph Cianciarulo of ACM had to say:

"Vicki and I have hunted with Larry & Laura Amos of Winterhawk outfitters in Colorado and it was amazing to say the least. They run a first class operation with all effort put forth to make your hunt a very memorable one. But don't take it from us, check out how long they have been in business and you will see why they are still going strong! They know what it takes and do everything in their power to make your dreams come true. If you want a great western hunt with a great outfit call Larry & Laura, but talk with Laura, she's a lot nicer....LOL"
           
                  -Ralph & Vicki Cianciarulo, hosts of ARCHER'S CHOICE & THE CHOICE TV Shows

Thank you to Ralph and Vicki for this wonderful endorsement! If you have any questions about hunting trips with Winterhawk, please contact us at any time through the website or by calling 970-487-3011

A Conversation With World Champion Elk Caller, Corey Jacobsen

June 28, 2010

We recently had a chance to speak with Elk101.com's founder, Corey Jacobsen. Corey is a six-time world champion elk caller and has placed in the top five at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation World Champion Elk Calling Contest 11 out of the last 12 years.

If you haven't already heard, Winterhawk has teamed up with Elk101 to give away a free archery elk hunt for the 2011 season! If you haven't entered to win, visit Elk101.com now for details. 

Corey Jacobsen has been hunting over-the-counter, public land archery units in Idaho for the past 20 years and just like Winterhawk Outfitters, Corey has a passion for wilderness elk hunting.

Q: Tell us about how learned to call and hunt elk. 

Corey: I grew up in northern Idaho where hunting is a way of life. My dad was an outfitter and a guide for several years so we were out hunting elk as soon as we could walk. We had elk in our back yard and we lived right there with them. It was a part of life so it came naturally.

My dad designed and invented the palate plate diaphragm call. He designed it and sold the patent to Primos, so they now manufacture that call. I've been involved in competition elk calling and elk hunting for as long as I can remember. 

Q: How did you come up with the concept for Elk101?

Corey: Elk101 started as a type of personal blog, putting down stories and photos of our hunts. It wasn't ever intended to explode like it did. In the first couple months all kinds of people find out about it and began sending us questions. We had done a few seminars on elk hunting in the past and thought, 'these are great questions and we need to do something with this.' 

So, we started the Extreme Elk Hunting Class where go into detail on everything that's involved in an elk hunt, including physical conditioning, gear, and scouting, all the way down to studying up on elk, how to call them in, using calls, how to quarter and pack them out, and so on.

Q: How long ago did you launch the Elk101.com website? 

Corey: Elk101.com started exactly a year ago. In August we changed the style so it was more of a public type of a website and started getting some article information like tips and tactics out there.

Then in January we started adding video content. We added an instructional video on the gutless field dressing method because that's one of the most common questions we get. It's free and people can go check it out and learn how to do it. 

Q:How is Elk101 different from all the other elk hunting websites and seminars out there?

Corey: The cool thing that sets us apart is that we aren't selling anything. We aren't promoting a product. We are giving information like we see it. There is a value there that's lost in other seminars and classes. Our philosophy is to give unbiased, information based upon experience. We're doing these classes just to teach people. We do have sponsors for the webisodes on the website. That essentially pays for the webisode to be free so everyone can enjoy it. But we aren't tied down to using certain gear. 

Q:Who are the other Pro Staff contributors at Elk101.com and how did you get to know them?

Corey: These hunters are very well known on the national scene as being successful elk hunters and we approached them and told them what we were doing. We wanted a good sampling of people that hunt the southwest, northwest and central Rockies. We wanted to have a wide range of experience so that if a someone is going on an elk hunt, whether it was a Roosevelt hunt in Oregon, a DIY hunt in Montana or a controlled hunt in Arizona, we would have somebody with first hand experience. By having a good sampling of expert elk hunters on the pro staff, we are truly able to answer the questions. 

However, our way is not the right way and we're trying to stress that. We aren't the only experts. There are other methods and other ways of doing things. But if we can add some value and some content to the knowledge base of other hunters, then we're all successful in that.

Q:What's new at Elk101.com and do you have any plans for the future? 

Corey: Less than a month ago we launched a monthly webisode, which is a fun hunting video we do, really just for entertainment. We also have a tips section and that's been incredibly popular.

We have a cool feature coming up later this year. We have several hunts we're going to be filming and some of them are semi-live hunts. As soon as we get back to camp each day we'll share what's going on. People will be able to follow along day-to-day and see pictures and video of what we're getting into, as well as what went wrong and what we learned from it. 

We will be using little HD video cameras that mount to the side of our hat. We'll be able to get great footage from the eye of the hunter. You'll be able to see the arrow coming back and the animal there. That will be a lot of fun.

Q:What does your ideal elk hunt look like? 

Corey: I prefer archery because my preferred style is calling elk in, so archery lends itself a little better to that. But I rifle hunt occasionally when a tag presents itself. Whether it's backpacking in or hunting from a base camp, to me a public land type of hunt is the most rewarding.

The free elk hunt we're giving away with Winterhawk is a phenomenal opportunity. To be put in the middle of elk and to have a camp set up for you to hunt from in the wilderness is great. For us to be able to give that away is incredibly cool. 

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to wilderness elk hunters, what would it be?

Corey: Get in shape, hands down. You can be the best caller, you can be the best archer, you can do all these things great but if you aren't in shape and you can't get to where the elk are, it's not going to do you any good. We stress that and we spend a good deal of time going over it. 

Practice your calls, yes, but you don't have to be the greatest caller to call in elk. Practice your shooting, definitely, but even if you're the best shot in the world, if you don't have an elk in front of you it's not going to do you any good. Get in shape because it's going to make it more enjoyable and you'll be more successful. You'll be able to see more elk and you'll have more opportunities.

We would like to thank Corey for sharing his time with us! And if you haven't registered, go enter to win the free elk hunt at Elk101.com. 

If you have questions about the exciting wilderness elk hunts with Winterhawk Outfitters, please visit our hunting page or feel free to contact us.

Didn't Draw a Limited License? There Are Still Plenty of Opportunities to Hunt Elk in Colorado!

June 24, 2010

With more elk than any other state or Canadian province, no other place offers as many elk hunting opportunities as Colorado! 

If you didn't receive an elk license in the limited drawing, you still have great options. Over-the-counter elk licenses are available for some archery units and some rifle units for the 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons. In addition, many units and seasons that were a part of the limited drawing were under-applied for and have leftovers!

Anyone who's hunted elk in Colorado before knows, you don't need a tag in a highly limited unit to have a chance at a big bull. Particularly in wilderness areas like here in the Flattops, big bulls are taken every year on public land in over-the-counter units. Just last year (2009) we had a client take a bull that scored in the low 350s! 

Archery, 2nd rifle and 3rd rifle seasons are all over-the-counter here in the Flattops Wilderness with Winterhawk Outfitters. For information on licenses available, please visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife website. To find out about hunts available with Winterhawk, call us at 970-487-3011 or contact us online.

First Look at the Wilderness in 2010

June 15, 2010 

The following photos were taken recently near our Indian Cliffs Base Camp. As you can see, things are just beginning to turn green as the snow quickly melts from the high peaks. The aspens have started to bud and will soon be fully leafed out. The peaks in these photos are all just over 12,000 feet and form a semi-circle around our Indian Cliffs Base Camp. The surrounding hills give you an idea of the rolling topography that dominates the Flat Tops Wilderness area.

 

We will continue to post photos as the season progresses. Be sure to check back for updates, particularly as big game seasons approach. If you have any questions about booking a trip with Winterhawk Outfitters, please contact us at any time.

Free Elk Hunting Trip and More!

June 8, 2010

If you haven't had a chance, be sure to check out the Elk101.com website! Corey Jacobsen and the rest of the pro staff have assembled a fantastic website full of information on elk hunting, scouting, physical conditioning and more. 

Winterhawk has teamed up with Elk101.com to give away a free elk hunt for two people during the 2011 hunting season! To sign up, visit Elk101.com.

Also, be sure to check out the new elk hunting webisodes recently posted at Elk101.com. These videos take you along on exciting elk hunts. Webisode 1 features Russ Meyer on a backcountry archery elk hunt in the Idaho wilderness. 

If you haven't booked a trip with Winterhawk for 2010, there is still time to do so! We have a few spots still available for hunting this fall. For information on hunts, visit the hunting page or contact us.

There is also time left to book your summer vacation with Winterhawk. Summer is off to a great start here in the Flat Tops and a horseback wilderness adventure is the perfect getaway. From fly fishing to photography, we can plan the perfect trip for you or your family. Contact us for details.

Letter From A Client 

June 1, 2010

We'd like to share with you a letter that a Winterhawk guest sent to the U.S. Forest Service. First, thank you Michael for sending this wonderful letter to the Forest Service!

To all of our guests, we strive to work hard for you even in situations that do not go as planned. While wilderness travel can be unpredictable, our goal is to show you the adventure of a lifetime and share with you our love for this beautiful, wild country. If you have any questions or would like to speak with references, please feel free to contact us. We hope you get a chance to visit us during the 2010 season!

"To Whom it may Concern:

First I want to thank the U.S. Forest Service for providing the opportunity to hunt in Colorado. I am 43 years old and one of my life's ambitions was to go hunting for Elk and Mule deer in the Rocky Mountains. I tried for the last three (3) years to obtain this goal, but somehow difficult times circumvented my attempts: both involved family members who at the last minute became critically ill. On top of this I have a 21-year-old severely handicapped son, so leaving my family for a hunting trip was a thought-through and prayed about event. I am in the military and earn a modest income, yet somehow I saved the extra money to book a trip with Winterhawk Outfitters in Eagle, Colorado. 

When a friend of mine asked me to go with him to Colorado, I had many questions and many difficult decisions to make. Upon reading the brochures from Winterhawk, I did some research on the success ratio and the credibility of this organization and found that they were well respected. My friend also did some research and he found the same. Thank you for allowing Winterhawk the opportunity to serve the public as they do; I am sure that they create a lot of business for Colorado. I know that I would never have been able to go if not for them. My written agreement with Winterhawk stated that I would pay $600.00 up front and the remaining upon arrival at camp. I am very pleased to pay the amount I paid considering the pleasure I received. Winterhawk guaranteed nothing other than accommodations and pack-service to and from our camp. I expected nothing else from our contract, yet I received much more.

Not only did they provide transportation to and from our appointed camp, they also, upon notice by radio, were able to get me out of the backcountry in time to save my life. The second night of the 2 nd season, I became deathly ill (at least I felt that way). I did not announce my real concerns other than the present symptoms I was having. They talked me through the situation, had me lie down and rest. When I first radioed it was around 1600 hrs. When my buddies came in around 1930-2000 hrs I felt relief, so I decided to wait out the symptoms until the next morning. When I awoke at around 0930 I felt much better, but I didn't go out of camp until around 1330 hrs. At approximately 1830 that evening my heart rate advanced to 102 beats and I had a black-out spell that scared me pretty good. Sir, I am in the military and I get paid for being in shape, however, I never felt anything like this. 

That night I considered my options of staying; on one hand I would lose the money I had invested in the hunt, and on the other hand I felt I would be jeopardizing my life if I stayed. I chose to leave my buddies on Monday morning. At the time I called Winterhawk personnel were very busy and because of this I felt ashamed to call and ask for help. However, I called anyway and they had one of the guides w/ hunters who were in the area check on me and found that because of my condition I should be taken out of the altitude for my safety. Upon entry into camp the guide immediately sized up the situation, found I didn't have a fire, built it for me, and stayed until confirmation of my departure was made. Neither the guide nor the hunters appeared apathetic of my needs. Sir, I was and am more than grateful for the concern they showed me.

On Tuesday, Mr. Larry Amos (owner of Winterhawk Outfitters) provided transportation to Grand Junction airport. In talking, he assured me that things like this happen, because at the time I was feeling somewhat inferior. He informed me that it really didn't matter what shape a man was in because high altitude sickness happened to the best. As we talked, I became aware of the sincerity of the man I was conversing with. I found him betraying deep personal thoughts about nature, ethical hunting, preserving the land and our heritage. On several occasions, Larry talked openly about his grandfather and his respect for wildlife, what it meant to be truly thankful that God had provided such an opportunity for him to be able to serve the people that crossed his path, and before he left me at the airport, I felt that I was saying goodbye to a good friend or family member... I hope he felt the same. Sir, I'm sure you're proud to have such a man serving people from other states as well as your own. His outfitting business surely made a difference for me. 

Sir, I left with nothing less than respect for this man, Larry Amos, Winterhawk and the personnel, and a sincere desire to return someday. Although I was not successful in staying the full 2 nd season, I received more pleasure than I can really explain. Some people have said they were sorry I paid the money I paid and then having to leave so early. Sir, I feel I got what I paid for and feel no regret whatsoever. In fact I have faced empty seasons on my own hunting grounds of Virginia and felt I lost more in a full season at home than the 5 days in Colorado.

My wife has stated several times since I returned that she was glad that Winterhawk was there to help! 

Sir, thank you again for providing the opportunity. I am very appreciative of the services your state provides. Please feel free, on my behalf, to give Winterhawk Outfitters an Ata-boy for a job well done.

Sincerely, 

Michael F. Mays"

Win a FREE Elk Hunt With Winterhawk!

May 27, 2010

Elk101.com has teamed up with Winterhawk Outfitters to give away a FREE elk hunt for 2 hunters during the 2011 archery elk season! There is no purchase necessary to enter. Purchasing Sitka Gear through Elk101.com, however, will earn extra chances in the draw. For more details and to enter to win, visit www.elk101.com.

Elk Drawing Results are Available

May 25, 2010

The Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) has posted the 2010 elk drawing results on their website. You can access the results using your CDOW customer ID number (CID) or with your last name, birth date and zip code. To view the results, please visit the results page on the CDOW website. Results for the mule deer drawing should be available next week.

If you drew an elk license for the unit and season you applied for, it's time to start preparing! Check here frequently throughout the summer for tips on pre-season conditioning, scouting and more!

If you weren't able to draw a limited license, remember that archery, 2nd rifle and 3rd rifle tags are sold over the counter for our area here in the Flat Tops. If you haven't booked a trip with Winterhawk Outfitters, we still have a few slots available for 2010. With the wet weather we've had so far this spring, it could be an epic season. Book your trip now!

How Wildlife Fared This Winter - Big Game Conditions in 2010

An Interview With the Colorado Division of Wildlife's Brian Wodrich

May 18, 2010

Winter in Colorado's high country can be harsh, even for the tough wildlife built to survive it. After a severe winter three years ago that put a strain on Colorado's deer herds, things are looking positive this spring for big game.

We had a chance to ask a few questions of wildlife expert, Brian Wodrich. Brian is a District Wildlife Manager (DWM) for the Colorado Division of Wildlife. He oversees the Eagle North District, which includes the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Brian has been working with the Division of Wildlife for eight years, and has been a DWM for the last four.

Brian shared his thoughts with us on this year's winter and how it might affect hunting in the fall. "Thankfully, this winter was relatively mild which provided the deer that were hit heavy by the winter kill of 2007 a chance to further recover," Brian told Winterhawk.

"Due to mild weather, the animal activity was typical with both elk and deer using historic migration routes, successfully reaching and remaining in their respective wintering ranges," Brian said. "Additionally, due to the wet spring so far, vegetation is in excellent condition, which is providing the deer tremendous foraging opportunities within the sage."

A good snowpack and healthy spring precipitation is great news for wildlife. Growth of grasses and shrubs provides important grazing and browsing for deer and elk. Wet spring weather and good forage directly relate to antler growth as well. The nutrients the animals consume throughout the spring and summer could lead to excellent antler growth this fall.

When asked for a tip for wilderness hunters, Brian had some excellent advice to offer. "Continue to have patience, respect the land that the elk rely on and be prepared for a vast difference in weather," he told us. "If it's warm during the early season hunts, continue up high into the dark timber and remaining snow pack." 

We'd like to thank Brian for giving us his insight. We have a great summer to look forward to and more great hunting this fall in the Flat Tops Wilderness. For information on our hunts, please see the hunting page. To book a trip, please contact us.

May News from Winterhawk

May 11, 2010

Our most recent newsletter was delivered last week and in case you missed it, we've posted it here. Be sure to check it out for great summer getaway specials, free gear, fishing tips and more! To receive the next newsletter right to your inbox, simply contact us with your current email address.

Sign Up To Receive The Flat Tops Newsletter

April 27, 2010

If you are not already on our email list, you can register to receive news from Winterhawk Outfitters right to your email inbox. Our newsletter will be delivered periodically, providing you with news from the Flat Tops, stories from our camps, promotions and wilderness hunting and fishing tips.

The next newsletter will be sent out later this week. If you would like to receive a copy, please contact us with your email address. You can always unsubscribe at any time. Here is a look at the previous newsletter:

Interview With Winterhawk Packer, Jacque Link

April 13, 2010

2009 Winterhawk Packing Crew

Danielle, Megan, Jessica & Jacque

 

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with one of Winterhawk's veteran packers, Jacque Link. Living in her home state of Idaho the rest of the year, Jacque comes to Colorado each year for the big game hunting seasons. Jacque has a wealth of knowledge surrounding horses and wilderness packing. Jacque is also a graduate of Winterhawk's industry-leading guide school.

Q: How long have you been working with Winterhawk Outfitters?

Jacque: I've been working with Winterhawk for seven years now. I went through their guide school in 2003.

Q: How did you become interested in this job and how did you find Winterhawk's guide school?

Jacque: When I was growing up, my mom and I would pack into the wilderness in Idaho and I always thought it would be a fun job to have. That's when I started looking at guide schools. When I got out of school, I happened to come across it on the Internet.

Q: So you grew up around horses?

Jacque: I grew up riding my whole life. I did 4H for a few years when I was younger and then riding in the backcountry here in Idaho.

Q: Do you ever have a chance to do any hunting yourself?

Jacque: I mainly hunt for small game because I work during the big game seasons. But during the off seasons I love snowshoeing, kayaking and fishing.

Q: How much time do you spend in Colorado each year?

Jacque: I come to Colorado for the rifle hunting seasons. It's kind of like a 6-week working vacation for me.

Q: What do you enjoy most about it?

Jacque: Being able to ride in the backcountry, it's so quiet and peaceful . I also love getting to meet new people from all walks of life and from all over the country that I would otherwise never meet. You work hard but you feel really good up there. Even though you're getting up early and working long hours, it doesn't seem to wear on you. I love the lifestyle of working up there. It must be addicting because I go back every year.

Q: How do you spend your summers?

Jacque: In the summer I keep very busy as a firefighter. I usually finish around the first of October, which gives me time to go to Colorado for the hunting seasons.

Q: What advice would you give to wilderness elk hunters?

Jacque: I would say to enjoy the whole experience. Being in the wilderness is wonderful. And if you are hunting with a guide, have an open mind and be willing to do what your guide asks.

We want to thank Jacque for sharing with us, and we would love for you to meet her and the rest of our outstanding staff here in 2010! If you have any questions about booking a trip with Winterhawk Outfitters, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Flat Tops Wilderness Area: A Profile

April 6, 2010

 

Comprising more than 235,000 acres of wilderness, the Flat Tops is the second largest wilderness area in Colorado. It is located in the Routt and White River National Forests, in the northwestern part of the state. The United States Congress designated the wilderness area in 1975. However, it was Arthur Carhart who first proposed wilderness preservation after his visit there in 1919.

The Flat Tops Wilderness contains more than 100 lakes and well over 100 miles of streams, making it a backcountry fishing paradise. Native cutthroat trout patrol forgotten lakes, many of them unnamed.   The fish so rarely see an artificial fly or lure that on a good day, it's a rare cast that doesn't receive a strike.

Reflecting onto the surface of these pristine waters are the wildflower laden hills, the ceiling of the white river plateau. The edge of the wilderness is guarded by steep breaks in the basalt lava flows, forming a barrier of formidable cliffs. Beyond these guardians however, the wilderness interior rolls along in perfect subalpine meadows, tundra and forests, dotted with lakes and cut by streams.

The area is home to a large variety of wildlife. Elk, mule deer, mountain lion, black bear, moose and bighorn sheep can all be found here. The elk hunting is some of the best in North America. Those willing to put in long rides on horseback and miles under foot will be rewarded. The sheer size of the Flat Tops Wilderness is intimidating but that's exactly what makes it special. 

"Get a good draft working in your nostrils, smell the hot sun on the pine needles, the tangy odor of the sage, the scent of the fire weed in full bloom...hear the call of the jay, the splash of the jumping trout, the roar of a water fall. Brush the dust of habit away from your eyes and see the lacery of the pine needles, the vivid coloring of the cliff or wild flower, the majesty of the peaks. In other words, take stock of the world in which you live..."

-Arthur H. Carhart

Winterhawk Outfitters offers summer horseback trips, wilderness fly-fishing and big game hunting adventures in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Come see what it's all about and experience Colorado's high country! Please contact us for information.

Winterhawk Trading Company Now Online!

March 29, 2010  

We are excited to announce that the Winterhawk Trading Company online store is now up and running! Please take a look at all the great gear we have available. We're working hard to make sure our products are American made.

Currently featured in the store we have clothing items such as jackets, fleece vests, sweatshirts, t-shirts and hats. You will also find a great selection of knives for field dressing game, the Superday backpack from Badlands and other hunting accessories. We even have a line of beautiful fine art prints to choose from. 

The gear featured in our store is the same gear you'll see us carrying in the field. These are items that we have tested and rely on. We know you'll be happy with them too!

The best news is, when you book a 2010 trip with Winterhawk Outfitters, you'll receive a free gift certificate to the Winterhawk Trading Company online store! Just ask when you book your trip and we'll send you the gift certificate. The only thing better than free gear is the trip of a lifetime in the Colorado wilderness!

Book your 2010 trip soon and please contact us if you have any questions.

Time to Submit Your Big Game Applications!

March 22, 2010

Attention all big game hunters, it's time to submit those applications for the 2010 season. Applications are due on April 6th! Even if you do not plan to hunt in 2010, you can apply for a preference point for each of the species you'd like to hunt in the future. This is a great idea for anyone interested in the first rifle or muzzleloading seasons that can sometimes take a point or two to draw.

Speaking of muzzleloading, there is a change this year that elk hunters should be aware of: there is no longer a statewide muzzleloading elk license in Colorado. Black powder hunters must now apply for a specific area. This is good news for hunters in the Flat Tops area. Whereas it used to take 3 or more points to draw a statewide muzzleloader tag, it may be much easier now.

We would also like to remind elk hunters that although the first rifle season is drawing only, there is a good chance to draw that license without any preference points. With one or more points, you will draw without a problem. Don't let the drawing scare you away from this great, early rifle season for elk!

Big game hunting applications are quick and easy to submit online. Simply go to the Colorado Division of Wildlife website and follow the instructions. Besides convenience, the advantage of completing your applications online is the assurance that everything is filled out correctly. Your submissions will be checked each step of the way and you will be able to verify the licenses you are applying for.

If you have any questions about available dates with Winterhawk, please feel free to contact us at any time. We'd be happy to make you a reservation for one of our great wilderness hunts here in the beautiful Flat Tops Wilderness Area!

Finally, please take a look at the new Winterhawk Trading Company! The online store is now available. Anyone who books a trip with us in 2010 can receive a free gift certificate to the store! Contact us for details.

The Latest News From Winterhawk

March 16, 2010

There are several exciting bits of news we'd like to share with you this week. First, on the bottom of the home page, you may have noticed the Winterhawk Trading Post Online Store is coming soon! The gear is in stock and we're putting the finishing touches on the website. Soon, you'll be able to purchase all of our top-of-the-line gear. From the knives to the optics, these are items we use ourselves in the backcountry and we're proud to be offering them in the store.

So, want to get free gear from our new online store? Good news! Anyone who books a hunt with us will automatically receive a gift certificate to the Winterhawk Trading Post. If you book a trip of $1800 to $3900, we will give you a $100 gift certificate. If you book a hunt of $4000 or more, you will receive a $200 gift certificate. This is good on anything in the store. Book your trip now!

Finally, we are giving away a free Browning X-Bolt rifle or a Mathews Z7 bow - your choice! No purchase is necessary to win. All you need to do is complete the registration form on our website.

Spring is nearly here and we're looking forward to setting up our backcountry camps for the upcoming season. If you need information about summer trips or fall hunting trips, don't hesitate to contact us!

Hard Work and Patience for Elk Hunting Success

March 8, 2010

When elk hunting in Colorado's high country wilderness, there are two things every hunter can do to increase their chances of success. Hunters who are willing to work hard and able to stay patient even after several grueling days of hunting, will ultimately enjoy a more rewarding experience.

This brings to mind one particular hunt from our 2009 archery season. One of our hunters, Darnell, had put in four hard days of September hunting, when the daylight hours are especially long. We were into elk every day that week, but had no shot opportunities.

As high country hunting goes, we were dealing with constantly shifting winds. A couple of times we got close to bulls but had to back out because of changes in wind direction. For four days we played cat and mouse games but never got within range. Long hikes and long horseback rides were standard each day.

Despite it all, Darnell kept his motivation and willingness to do what it took. On the morning of the fifth day we made another long ride and put in some difficult hiking. We got into the elk, but again were unable to get a shot opportunity. Near the end of the morning, we attempted one last bugle and were thrilled to hear a response from the dark timber about 300 yards away.

We closed the distance and moved into position. We bugled again and received an immediate response. We had a bull moving in, and were excited that our work might finally be paying off.

However, hard work is only half of this story. Just as we got set up, the bull went totally silent. After four days of working for a shot opportunity, this is where many hunters might lose patience and make a mistake. Our guide set up about 35 yards behind Darnell, gave a couple of soft cow calls and broke a few sticks. Still, there was no response. The guide put away the calls and the timber was still.

This went on for more than 15 minutes with no sound from the bull. Yet Darnell kept his cool and didn't move a muscle. His patience paid off. Like a ghost emerging from behind a tree, suddenly an antler was visible and then the elk stepped into the clearing.

Darnell was tempted to shoot but the bull was quartering toward him, not offering a shot. With the bull facing him, it would have been dangerous to draw without being seen. 

Eventually the elk became suspicious and turned to leave, quartering away from Darnell. When the elk's head was behind a tree, Darnell drew his bow. As soon as the elk stepped out on the other side, he let him have it. 

During those long, silent minutes, it was difficult to remain perfectly still. When the elk finally appeared, it took an incredible amount of patience to wait for a good shot opportunity to unfold. Darnell's patience was rewarded with a nice, five-point bull.

For many of us, getting up early on those first couple days and putting in the work it takes to pursue elk in rugged country is an enjoyable chore. Yet after the third and even fourth day, many hunters begin to wear down. It becomes hard to motivate yourself to make those long hikes or rides. Even worse, hunters often begin to lose patience, losing shot opportunities because of movement or hasty decisions at the wrong time.

Preparation begins with physical training. Hunters who are in good shape will be able to hunt harder all the way through the week. Next is shooting practice. The most frustrating thing is to be in the right situation and miss the shot. Before your hunt this year, get in shape and spend time practicing your shots. When the season arrives, you will certainly be glad you did.

For information on hunting with Winterhawk Outfitters, please visit our hunting page.

Gearing up for Warm Weather

March 1, 2010

It's the first day of March we're looking forward to spring! As you begin to dream of warm-weather activities, it's time to get your gear in order. 

Spring-cleaning is a particularly important task for fly fisherman. If you're any kind of procrastinator, you've probably found yourself looking through your gear just before the first trip of the year and realizing it hasn't been cleaned since you put it away last fall.

Far too many fishermen simply blow off a winter's worth of dust and take to the river or lake without a thought to the condition of their rod, line or reel. A little care in advance of the season will significantly improve the performance of your gear.

First, take a look at your rod. Start by running it through warm, soapy water, cleaning off any grime from last season. Be sure to use a mild hand soap rather than dish detergent. You can use an old toothbrush to clean off the guides, and around the reel seat. When you're finished, dry it well with a clean cloth. 

You can use a small amount of fine oil on the reel seat. You may also want to add a little paraffin wax to the male ends of the ferrules. This will keep them from sticking and cracking.

Next, get out your reel. Start by removing the line and the backing. Coil up the line and set it neatly aside. Take apart your reel and rinse it in warm water. Make sure there is no leftover grime or sand. These things can quickly damage your drag discs and inner housing. Once clean, dry the reel and set it aside.

Now, take a look at your line. Everything from water to rocks to sun will eventually wear on your line. A properly cared for line can last several years. If yours is showing cracking from age, it is time to replace it. If it simply looks dirty, let's get to work.

Start with a washcloth in hand, a bucket of warm, soapy water in front of you and the coiled line to one side. Run the line and backing through the water, gently rubbing it through the washcloth and coiling it again on the other side of the bucket. Fly line is porous, and this process will remove embedded dirt, allowing your line to float better and move more fluidly through the water.

Next, use a fly-line treatment to finish cleaning the line. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the best product for your particular line and specific cleaning instructions. 

You may notice that after a few months of rest, your fly line retains its tightly coiled position. Fly lines have "memory" and will stay this way if left on the reel too long. Before returning your line to the reel, simply stretch it out, using both hands a couple feet at a time. It's also a good idea to stretch your line before each time you fish. Then, if storing your line next winter, remove it from the reel, coil it in larger loops and secure it with a twist-tie.   

Finally, take a look at any flies you have leftover from last season. Inspect the hooks carefully. If there is any sign of rust or a broken tip, discard the fly. Last season, I was fishing with wooly buggers late into the fall and hooked up with a giant brown trout. The line suddenly went slack and the fish was gone. Upon inspecting the fly, I noticed the hook was broken above the bend. The tail of the wooly bugger had retained some moisture, causing the hook to rust, unnoticed. At the beginning of the year and throughout the season, don't forget to inspect your flies for damage.

With a little care at the beginning, during and at the end of each season, your equipment will last longer and perform better.   There is a long list of things beyond our control that can cause us to lose or miss fish. Don't let something as easily remedied as equipment care cost you the big one.

If you'd like more information about a wilderness fly-fishing adventure with Winterhawk Outfitters, please visit our fishing page. We'd love to have you join us this summer!

Attention Hunters!

February 11, 2010

The Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) has released its big game hunting brochures for 2010. If you hunted big game in 2009, you should receive a brochure in the mail. If you did not hunt in 2009, there are several ways to obtain the brochure. First, you can view or download the electronic version from the CDOW website. This will allow you to print the pages you need.

If you prefer a hard copy, residents are asked to pick one up at any local license agent or CDOW office. Nonresidents may request a brochure from the CDOW by completing this online form. If you experience any trouble downloading the brochure or using the online form, please call the CDOW at (303) 297-1192  

All big game applications are due on April 6, 2010. Whether applying for a license or simply preference points, you must submit your application by this day.

Please visit our hunting page for available 2010 dates at Winterhawk Outfitters

Interview with Winterhawk Guide, Bob Terwilliger 

February 8, 2010

 

This week on the Flat Tops News, we are excited to feature an interview with one of Winterhawk Outfitter's guides, Bob Terwilliger!

First, we'd like to remind you to visit our page on Facebook and follow us at http://twitter.com/winterhawkco. Become a fan to check out the latest photos and get updates on your mobile phone.

As we begin the interview, we would like to introduce you to Bob Terwilliger. Bob has been guiding for Winterhawk Outfitters for the past three seasons and hunting in the Flattops Wilderness for 15 years. His in-depth knowledge of the country and the game that inhabit it are just a part of what makes Bob a world-class guide. 

Q: How long have you been hunting, Bob?

Bob: I've been hunting big game my whole life, first, whitetails and wild turkey. Then, I seriously got into hunting elk when I moved to Colorado 16 years ago.

Q: When guiding, is it primarily for big game hunting? 

Bob: Yes, I started out doing big game hunting, but recently I've been able to do some summer horseback vacations and fly fishing trips as well.

Q: What do you like most about the early hunting seasons, archery and muzzleloader?

Bob: We experience nice weather and it's a very pretty time of year when the aspens are turning. But the really exciting part is calling in the elk. They tend to be more talkative and more responsive that time of year. It is so exciting to get those bulls in close and watch hunter's reactions. 

Q: What do you enjoy about the first and second rifle seasons?

Bob: In the first and second rifle seasons, many of the bulls are still bugling and still very antsy. The first season is great because the elk have not been hunted with a rifle yet. Hunters have been in there with muzzleloaders but the tags are so limited that they're not too pressured yet. The nice thing about second rifle season is that you get a little more weather pushing the elk down from their higher locations. The other thing is, those with a deer tag have the opportunity to take a very nice buck.

Q: And what do you enjoy most about the later seasons, third and fourth rifle?

Bob: In these seasons, you can really get into them if the weather is right. This happened to us last season when we really got into the elk. The harsher weather pushes the animals down where they are more accessible. They become very congregated, so it can be exciting from that standpoint. It's possible to see big numbers of elk and often there will be multiple bulls in with these herds. 

Q: How do you stay in good physical condition for these wilderness trips? 

Bob: I work out during the off-season and I'm an avid skier, usually skiing 40 to 45 days a year. If I'm not doing any other fun activity, I spend about six days a week at the gym. I work out and keep myself in tip-top shape so I can do this. And although I don't own horses of my own, I enjoy horses and I do quite a bit of riding.

Q: If you could offer a tip to wilderness elk hunters, what would it be?

Bob: First, come with a good attitude and in the best physical condition possible. Then, spend as much time as you can shooting your rifle or bow. Get comfortable shooting in different positions and at different distances. Last but certainly not least, trust and listen to your guide. That's one thing I've found to be a big margin of error. When you get a bull screaming and you see him coming, it's easy to forget what your guide told you and move at the wrong time. Listen to your guide about when to move and when to be ready for a shot. When a bull is looking for a cow or another bull, he's looking for movement. If you move at the wrong time, they're going to pick that up and they'll be gone.

Thanks to Bob for taking the time to share his expertise! Of course if you have any questions about hunting with Winterhawk Outfitters, don't hesitate to give us a call. 

Finally, we would like to announce that Winterhawk Outfitters will be giving away a free Browning rifle or a bow of your choice! There will be no purchase necessary to win. We will provide details in the coming weeks.

Winterhawk client and friend Jeff Canning was all smiles yesterday (November 1st).  He took a magnificent bull elk from one of our camps in the Flat Tops Wilderness.  While it is too early to say officially what the bull will score, unofficially it measures in the low 350".  You can watch a short video taken right after Jeff scored on this elk by going to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lzR2aYcDXc.   

Winterhawk Outfitters is pleased to announce the launch of our new website.  Here you will still find the same great information about our operation, preparing for your trip, and more.  What we have added is an updated look, improved navigation, and numerous other options.  We'll also be adding more features over the next few months such as video and a new photo gallery.  Stay tuned and check back often.