S O U T H W E S T
C O L O R A D O
HUNTING & FISHING G
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REGIONAL RESOURCE FOR YOUR HUNTING AND FISHING ADVENTURES
Table of Contents Letter from the editor
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2021-2022 hunting seasons
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Big game facts & harvest statistics
05
Preference points & license fees
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Full scope
08
History of the herd
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Six steps to a successful hunt
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Game meat benefits & recipes
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Fish stories
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Advice from anglers
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Fishing gear
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TRAVEL PLANNING Durango Service Center
resources
Pagosa FO Pagosa Springs
(970) 247-0855
(970) 264-2268
San Juan National Forest
Tres Rios FO Dolores
(970) 247-4874
(970) 882-7296
BLM Southwest Center
Gunnison FO Gunnison
(970) 240-5300
(970) 641-0471
Pagosa RD Pagosa Springs
*RD = Ranger District *FO = Field Office
(970) 264-1500
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Douglas Bennett
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Carrie Cass EDITORIAL
Hunter Harrell special sections editor
DESIGN
Tad Smith manager of creative services
A DV E RT I S I N G
Jamie Opalenik director of multimedia sales
Amy Baird Kelly Bulkley Alyssa McClellan Joe Nelson Shell Simonson PRODUCTION
Ryan Brown
production manager
Wes Rowell Ballantine Communications uses reasonable effort to include accurate and up-todate information for its special magazine publications. However, all information comes from a variety of sources and may change at any time for any reason. To verify specific information, refer to the organization or business noted. To view the online version of this guide, visit: www.durangoherald.com
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Letter FROM THE EDITOR Colorado is a gateway to the great outdoors. Access to open spaces, like public land and wilderness areas, nurtures a haven for both nature lovers and sport enthusiasts. From bird watchers to mountain bikers, the state attracts a variety of visitors looking to indulge in more active leisure activities. Fishing and hunting are two sports that might be intimidating to beginners, but often turn into lifelong hobbies for those that test the waters. Reeling in that first catch or feeling buck fever take hold transforms you. What starts as a simple desire for new experiences in nature can lead to incredible adventures and exhilarating encounters in beautiful, wild places. Best of all, you can fly solo or make it a family affair. Catching fish and harvesting game can take remarkable patience, planning and practice. Preparation begins long before the season starts. Anglers and hunters must acquire a license before pursuing these passions. For rookie hunters, an education course is necessary before applying for a license.
keeping the spaces we enjoy open to the public for an abundance of other activities. Aside from economic contributions, anglers and hunters help maintain healthy habitats and wildlife populations. Learn more about how to plan and prepare for fishing and hunting in the Southwest in this regional Fishing & Hunting Guide. It includes valuable information about open season dates for a variety of big and small game species and last season’s harvest statistics from the region’s game management units, as well as guidance for sighting a weapon and planning a successful hunt. Uncover the fascinating history of elk herds in Colorado, which explores the value of conservation efforts. And discover the benefits of consuming wild game, including creative ways to incorporate the meat into your favorite meals. Read on for advice from expert anglers and recommended tools of the trade.
By purchasing licenses, hunters and anglers contribute to funding important conservation projects to protect wildlife and their habitats. This money supports
ATTENTION ARCHERY HUNTERS OVER THE COUNTER ARCHERY ELK LICENSES ARE NOT VALID FOR UNITS 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 78, 711, 741, 751, 771 ALL ARCHERY LICENSES IN THESE UNITS ARE NOW LIMITED
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT CPW.STATE.CO.US A U GUST 2 0 21
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2021-2022 hunting seasons C O LO R A D O PA R K S A N D W I L D L I F E Big Game
S H E E P & G O AT S Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
DEER Archery
Sept. 2-30 *
Muzzleloader
Sept. 11-19 *
Second Rifle
Oct. 30 - Nov. 7
Third Rifle
Nov. 13-19
Fourth Rifle
Nov. 24-28
Plains Rifle
Oct. 30 - Nov. 9
ELK
Mountain Goat Desert Bighorn Sheep
Aug. 1 - Dec. 31* Sept. 8 - Oct. 31* Nov. 1-30
M O U N TA I N L I O N Fall season
Nov. 29 - March 31
Small Game (season dates continue into 2021) Abert’s Squirrel
Nov. 15 - Jan. 15
Beaver
Oct. 1 - April 30
Archery
Sept. 2-30
Bobcat
Dec. 1 - Feb. 28
Muzzleloader
Sept. 11-19
Common Snapping Turtle
April 1 - Oct. 31
First Rifle
Oct. 16-20
Cottontail Rabbit, Snowshoe Hare, Jackrabbit
Oct. 1 - Feb. 28
Second Rifle
Oct. 30 - Nov. 7
Third Rifle
Nov. 13-19
Coyote
Fourth Rifle
Nov. 24-28
Marmot
Aug. 10 - Oct. 15
Prairie Dog
June 15 - Feb. 28
Prairie Rattlesnake
June 15 - Aug. 15
PRONGHORN Archery
Aug. 15 - Sept. 20 *
Muzzleloader
Sept. 21-29
Rifle
Oct. 2-10 *
MOOSE Archery
Sept. 11-30
Muzzleloader
Sept. 11-19
Rifle
Fox and Pine Squirrel Wyoming Ground Squirrel Badger, Fox, Mink, Muskrat, Pine Marten, Opossum, Raccoon, Ring-Tailed Cat, Skunk, Weasel
Year-round
Oct. 1 - Feb. 28 Year-round Nov. 1 - Feb. 28
Migratory & Game Birds Band-Tailed Pigeon Sept. 1-14 Chukar Partridge Sept. 1 - Nov. 30 Crow Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 Dove: Mourning, White-Winged Sept. 1 - Nov. 29 Dove: Eurasian Collared Year-round European Starling, House Sparrow Year-round Greater Prairie Chicken Oct. 1 - Jan. 3 * Grouse: Dusky (Blue) Sept. 1 - Nov. 22 * Grouse: Greater Sage Sept. 12-18 * Grouse: Mountain Sharp-Tailed Sept. 1-20 * Pheasant Nov. 14 - Jan. 3 * Quail: Northern Bobwhite, Nov. 14 - Jan. 31 * Scaled, Gambel’s Rail: Sora, Virginia Sept. 1 - Nov. 9 Sandhill Crane Oct. 3 - Nov. 29 * White-Tailed Ptarmigan Sept. 12 - Oct. 14 * Wilson’s Snipe Sept. 1 - Dec. 16 * Duck, Coot and Teal Oct. 3-21, Nov. 7 - Jan. 31 * Dark Goose Oct. 3-21, Nov. 21 - Feb. 14 Light Goose Oct. 31 - Feb. 14 Turkey Fall Season Sept. 1 - Oct. 29 Late Hunting Season Dec. 15 - Jan. 15 * * Hunt seasons vary by license type and hunt location. Please see hunt tables and maps for more details online at www.cpw.state.co.us.
Oct. 1-14
BEAR Archery
Sept. 2-30
Muzzleloader
Sept. 11-19
Sept. Rifle (limited) First Rifle Second Rifle
Sept. 2-30 * Oct. 16-20 Oct. 30 - Nov. 7
Third Rifle
Nov. 13-19
Fourth Rifle
Nov. 24-28
Private Land Only Rifle
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Sept. 2 - Nov. 28 *
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AUG UST 20 21
Game facts and 2020 big game harvest statistics DEER
BEAR
Estimated population: 427,000 in Colorado Diet: grass, forbs, twigs, vegetation Average life span: 5-8 years Average size: 3-3.5 feet tall, 4.5-7 feet long (females usually smaller than males) Average weight: 100-300 pounds (females usually smaller than males) Run speed: 30 mph
Estimated population: 17,000-20,000 in Colorado Diet: berries, grass, herbs, vegetation, insects, fish, meat Average life span: 20-30 years Average size: 50-80 inches long (females usually smaller than males) Average weight: 100-500 pounds (females usually smaller than males) Run speed: 30 mph GMU
BOARS
SOWS
TOTAL HARVEST
70 71 711 72 73 74 741 75 751 76 77 771 78
44 13 40 1 7 10 5 9 9 5 17 7 9
27 20 28 0 7 11 3 3 6 4 10 5 6
71 33 68 1 14 21 8 12 15 9 27 12 16
GMU
BUCKS
DOES
TOTAL HARVEST
TOTAL HUNTERS
PERCENT SUCCESS
70 71 711 72 73 74 741 75 751 76 77 771 78
645 108 296 314 208 82 226 356 319 36 478 196 473
9 0 0 6 0 0 43 95 49 0 42 39 44
654 108 296 320 208 82 271 453 371 36 522 241 517
1347 429 667 625 408 408 537 1252 813 84 1349 517 1095
49% 25% 44% 51% 51% 20% 50% 36% 46% 43% 39% 47% 47% *includes harvested fawns
ELK
TURKEY
Estimated population: 280,000 in Colorado Diet: grass, forbs, tree bark, twigs, vegetation Average life span: Average size: 4-5 feet tall, 6-8 feet long (females usually smaller than males) Average weight: 500-700 pounds (females usually smaller than males) Run speed: 35 mph Listen to elk vocalizations at www.rmef.org/elk-facts. GMU
BULLS
COWS
TOTAL HARVEST
TOTAL HUNTERS
PERCENT SUCCESS
70 71 711 72 73 74 741 75 751 76 77 771 78
554 421 212 72 72 243 72 191 217 274 547 78 621
255 27 43 10 15 19 21 19 54 165 52 8 37
813 448 257 84 89 97 97 214 274 449 599 86 667
3127 2826 1735 482 752 1675 362 1632 1205 968 3546 563 2921
26% 16% 15% 17% 12% 16% 27% 13% 23% 46% 17% 15% 23%
Estimated population: 35,000 in Colorado Diet: seeds, fruits, insects, vegetation Average life span: 2.5 years Average size: 40 inches tall Average weight: 17 pounds Flight speed: over 55 mph Run speed: 25 mph Turkeys have over 5000 feathers. Listen to audio of talkative turkeys at www.nwtf.org/hunt/wild-turkey-basics/ turkey-sounds.
COUNTY
TOTAL HARVEST (Spring 2020)
Archuleta
228
Dolores
76
La Plata
19
Montezuma
76
Ouray
115
*includes harvested calves A U GUST 2 0 21
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Preference points Understanding the system C O LO R A D O PA R K S A N D W I L D L I F E
W
hen applying for a limited license, a preference point is awarded when an individual is unsuccessful in drawing their first-choice hunt code. Preference points provide an advantage in future drawings.
SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER n
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Preference points are awarded by species, not hunt code. A point can be used to apply for any type of license available for that species.
Resident
Non-Resident
Application processing fee (per species and draw)
$7
$9
Habitat Stamp (valid 3/1 - 3/31 of following year)
$10.40
$10.40
Use a preference point hunt code as your first choice if your goal is to accumulate points for use toward a future quality hunt. Points needed can change significantly from year to year.
Lifetime Habitat Stamp
$312.30
$312.30
License Fees Elk, Cow
$56.88
$516.63
Elk, Bull or either sex
$56.88
$688.26
Deer
$41.28
$412.61
Pronghorn, Buck or Doe
$41.28
$412.61
Youth Elk, Deer & Pronghorn
$16.30
$105.76
Bear
$39.75
$101.75
Youth Bear
$15.50
$51.50
Moose
$313.80
$2,300.51
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Desert Bighorn, Mountain Goat
$313.80
$2,300.51
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Desert Bighorn, Mountain Goat Preference Points
$50.00
$100.00
Nonresident allocations are determined by the average number of preference points a Colorado resident needs to draw a specific license during a 3-year period. For hunt codes that required six or more points for a Colorado resident to draw an elk or deer license, up to 20% may go to nonresidents. For hunt codes that required fewer than six points for a Colorado resident to draw an elk or deer license, up to 35% may go to nonresidents.
Mountain Lion
$51.68
$351.75
Turkey (spring)
$30.87
$157.77
Turkey (fall)
$25.67
$157.77
Youth Turkey
$16.31
$105.77
Small Game (one-day)
$14.23
$18.69
A Colorado Habitat Stamp is required to buy or apply for a license. The Habitat Stamp may be purchased online, by phone or at any Wildlife Service Center or license agent.
Annual Small Game
$30.87
$84.96
Youth Annual Small Game
$1.29
$1.29
Annual Small Game & Fishing Combo
$51.68
NA
Senior Annual Small Game & Fishing Combo (65+)
$38.50
NA
Annual Fishing
$36.08
$100.57
Youth Annual Fishing
$10.07
NA
Senior Annual Fishing
$10.07
NA
Fishing (five-day)
NA
$32.95
Fishing (one-day)
$14.23
$17.35
For bear, elk, deer and pronghorn, you will accumulate preference points until you are successful in drawing a first-choice license. If you draw your first choice, your preference points drop to zero. There is no “banking” of preference points. If you do not apply or hold a license for that species at least once within 10 consecutive years for a bear, elk, deer or pronghorn, your preference points for that species will be lost.
For bighorn sheep, moose and mountain goat, an applicant can accumulate a maximum of three points. Future applications are pooled with other three-point applicants. If you are unsuccessful in the pooled drawing, a “mathematically weighted” point is awarded to increase the probability of drawing a future license. You must apply at least once in a consecutive 10-year period to keep your points.
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Application Fee, Habitat Stamps
A preference point is awarded only for unsuccessful applications for a firstchoice hunt code.
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2022 Fishing & Hunting License Fees
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO DRAW A LICENSE? Statistics from previous years may be used to estimate the approximate time required to successfully draw a license. For example: If a unit allowed 20 licenses with 60 applicants, zero preference points required, 40 were unsuccessful. These 40 would be awarded a preference point. Assuming that the quota for this unit remained the same for 2017, and these 40 apply, 20 will draw a license using their preference point and 20 will be awarded a second point. An applicant with no points could expect to draw a license in three years. Preference-point requirements can be found at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Go to the Big Game hunting page at www.cpw.state.co.us.
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*All non-resident big game licenses are a big game and annual fishing combination license. License fees include a 25-cent charge for search and rescue, and a $1.50 Wildlife Council surcharge, if applicable.
AUG UST 20 21
10% DISCOUNT FOR:
Veterans, Seniors, Firefighters, Teachers
Celebrating 25 years
Located in Beautiful Downtown Dolores, Colorado
OPEN DAILY: 8am - Close (970) 533-7651 Mancos, CO
Large Selection with Local Flavor! 970-882-7353 Open 8-8 every day
AT THE INTERSECTION
Cox Conoco - Your One Stop Shop for Your Hunt or Fishing Excursion! • Tire Sales • Chainsaw Sales • Tire Rotation • Wheel Alignment • Oil Changes • Hunting & Fishing Licenses • Fishing Tackle • Firewood • Groceries • Ethanol Free Gas • Propane & Other Camping Supplies T WO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS
201 East Railroad Ave Mancos, CO • 8794 Highway 491 Lewis, CO
Family Owned for over 60 Years A U GUST 2 0 21
SO UT HWEST COLORADO H U NT I NG & F I S H I NG G UIDE
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Full scope Set your sights on success HUNTER HARRELL
M
ost hunting skills are acquired through experience and practice. That means preparation begins long before open season with honing marksmanship skills. Whether using a bow or firearm, becoming more familiar with the weapon is imperative to hitting the intended target. Increasing the odds of a successful hunt means testing the weapon before each adventure. After selecting a weapon for hunting, choose the type of ammunition for the type of game you plan to hunt. Due to different bullet weight, styles and powders, it is important to use the same ammunition to sight the weapon and hunt. Here are some simple steps to properly align your sights. Find a safe location. Colorado has both public and private shooting ranges open year-round. The public is also invited to participate in public sight-in days. Whether in a range or on public
U.S. Forest Service Contacts San Juan (970) 247-4874 Grand Mesa/Gunnison/ Uncompahgre (970) 874-7691
lands, be aware of your surroundings. Regulations for shooting on public land may differ based on agricultural, environmental and recreational interests. Contact the San Juan National Forest Service for more information about shooting on public land. Adjust the crosshairs. Be sure the gun is not loaded, then stabilize the weapon to look down the barrel. When the barrel is lined up with the target, look through the scope without moving the rifle and adjust the crosshairs. Some gunsmiths or ranges have a device that can perform this action in a fraction of the time, which is a great alternative for hunters in a time crunch. Take a test shot. Thanks to gravity, ammunition travels from a weapon in an arch rather than a straight line. After sighting a weapon without ammunition, it is time to take a test shot. If you’re working with a new firearm, consider starting with a closer target. If you’re simply fine-tuning a familiar weapon, go straight for the 100yard to 200-yard targets. Aside from ensuring accurate shots, sighting a rifle can be good target practice that helps hunters identify problems with their firing stance and technique. Sighting your weapon can also help you determine your accuracy at a specific range, building a marksman’s confidence in the field.
FIREARM SAFETY REMINDERS Firearm safety is a critical component of safe hunting. Hunters use rifles, shotguns and other firearms. Each gun is different, so hunters need to familiarize themselves with new firearms before using them. The following are some additional firearm safety tips from the Bureau of Land Management and Colorado Parks and Wildlife: n Always treat a firearm as if it is loaded. n Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. n Only point at what you plan to shoot. n Clearly identify your target and what is beyond it. n Never shoot from or over any road or highway. n Fire within the zone-of-fire, which is the 45-degree area directly in front of each hunter. n Firearm chambers should be emptied when guns are not in use. n Use appropriate ammunition. n Never modify or alter the gun. n Never cross a fence, jump a ditch or climb a tree with a loaded gun. n Never rely on a gun’s safety.
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AUG UST 20 21
Sight your scopes for free!
A service made possible by La Plata Electric Association
The Durango Gun Club’s outdoor range will be open to the public 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, conditions permitting: • October 14, 15, 28 & 29 • November 11 & 12
PRE OWNED CARS AND TRUCKS
SNOW, ICE, MUD, SCREE. DON’T GET STUCK!
www.lpea.coop
For more information: 970-749-3453
Before you go into the High Country on your HUNTING or FISHING adventure, come see JOHN and JUSTIN for
ALL OF YOUR 4X4 NEEDS. We offer non-guided full camps for hunting & fishing as well as gear drops, trail rides & game meat packing services.
( 970 ) 759-9135
packtrips@vallecitolakeoutfitters.com www.vallecitolakeoutfitters.com Vallecito Lake Outfitters is an equal opportunity service provider and operates under a special use permit from the USDA forest service, Columbine Ranger District. Insured and licensed Colorado Outfitter.
A U GUST 2 0 21
Nizhonigo sha ada a’holjilya’ 401 West Main Street, Cortez 564-4636 SO UT HWEST COLORADO H U NT I NG & F I S H I NG G UIDE
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History of the herd Fantastic elk and where to find them JOE NELSON
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’ve lived in the Rocky Mountains for 31 years, and I’ve hunted elk every year of that time. (Though I can’t say I was successful every year.) I’ve encountered elk unconcerned by my presence on backpacking trips into the Weminuche Wilderness and the La Plata mountains, and was once witness a type of National Geographic scene when I stumbled across a pack of coyotes attacking a large elk trapped in a tree well while backcountry telemarking the south face of Grizzly Peak above Purgatory Resort.
WHAT’S IN A NAME? The elk, aka wapiti, cervus canadensis, is one of the largest species in the deer family, for that matter one of the largest terrestrial mammals in North America. It is also found in Northeast Asia. The word “elk” in British English refers to the animal known as “moose” in North American English, so the Shawnee and Cree word “wapiti” (meaning white rump) is used to describe cervus canadensis in Europe, and often, to a lesser extent, here. Clear as mud? Before European settlement, an estimated ten million elk roamed the North American continent. The elk formerly had the largest range of any deer species in North America. For centuries, the elk was a picturesque icon of the American West and provided recreational opportunities for hunters, photographers, artists and other wildlife enthusiasts, according to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
TROUBLE IN PARADISE The American elk population was reduced to less than 100,000 individuals continent-wide by the early 1900s due to several factors, including unregulated hunting, grazing competition from domestic livestock and habitat destruction from unrestrained timber harvesting. Urbanization and westward expansion throughout the nineteenth and well into the twentieth century also contributed to the problem. Fortunately, the elk’s ability to use a variety of habitats, its opportunistic feeding habits and positive
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response to management efforts allowed the species to survive both natural and human-induced pressures over time. These factors, coupled with concentrated wildlife management efforts, have returned the North American elk to stable, and in some areas increasing, populations in the United States and Canada. By the early 1900s, after hunters and development nearly wiped out the species in the state, titans of Colorado industry (including F.O. Stanley of Stanley Steamer motorcar fame) imported more than a dozen elk from Yellowstone. Legend has it Stanley acclimatized the critters in a controlled environment near his namesake hotel in Estes Park (The Shining) before releasing them into the wild. Colorado is now home to some 287,000 elk, more than any other state. Other groups and organizations soon followed. A major contributor of reintroducing elk into the San Juan Mountains was the BPOE Lodge # 507 in Durango.
HABITS & HABITATS Elk are grazers, unlike mule or white tail deer, who are browsers. This contributes to the fact that elk is closer to beef than venison, thus more palatable to the average western imbiber. Elk is high in lean protein without being tough or gamy. According to the USDA, elk has only 7 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein in a 3-ounce serving. Higher in protein and lower in fat than most beef, studies show that elk is also high in iron and B vitamins. (If you are fortunate to harvest an elk, make sure you are prepared to pack it out. Elk are heavy animals and cannot be dragged to your hunting vehicle like a white tail deer.) In regions that experience high snowfall and severe winter conditions, elk typically migrate to higher elevations in summer once adverse winter conditions subside. Protection from human disturbance is a major factor luring elk to summer ranges. Deer can, and probably do, live in the alley behind your house, which is absolutely unacceptable for elk. A general lack of disturbance provided in the high
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country woodlands and pastures of national forests, wilderness areas and national parks make these lands common elk summer ranges. New grasses, forbs and woodland areas provide the necessary summer food and cover requirements for elk. In states where weather conditions do not prompt migration, elk summer and winter ranges may differ little from one another provided that necessary food and cover requirements are present. A key element of summer range is suitable areas for calving that are free of human disturbance, particularly during May and June when calves are most vulnerable. With the explosion of people using the backcountry/ high country year round, these areas are fast disappearing, contributing, in many people’s opinions, to the recent dipping of elk populations. In areas with moderate to severe snowfall, elk winter in lower-elevation wooded areas that provide hiding and security cover. Dense wooded lowlands and north/northeast-facing slopes provide valuable hiding cover. Drier, open south/southwest-facing slopes can provide available forage. Because of their large body size and thick coat insulating them from the cold, elk can be found bedding down on open slopes in winter as well. Located together with open woodlands that receive ample sunlight, these habitats create an ideal complex of cover and foraging opportunities that provide elk with suitable winter range. Unfortunately, the explosion of development on the Western Slope in recent years has created housing developments on prime winter elk habitat, forcing a disruption of traditional migratory patterns. Since human disturbance causes elk to expend more energy, just like their calving areas, a lack of disturbance is an imperative factor for good winter habitat, and ultimately, a thriving elk presence. It’s nothing short of a miracle that there are enough elk to have a sustainable population that can be hunted, and your participation in the season, including the purchasing elk licenses, goes a long way to making sure this is a possibility for future generations. So, go hunt that elk! n
AUG UST 20 21
ELK SUBSPECIES Here’s a brief breakdown of the four subspecies of elk that live in North America today. Tule elk, C. elaphus nannodes, the smallest of the subspecies, once freely roamed the valleys of central and northern California. They were declared to be extinct by 1870. Nothing short of miraculous, in 1874–1875 a single breeding pair was discovered by Buena Vista Lake in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Today, most of the approximately 3,000 tule elk that remain are managed by state and federal agencies on California public lands. Manitoba elk, C. elaphus manitobensis, once lived primarily north into Canada from Colorado along the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains and east into Minnesota and south into northern Texas. Today, the majority of the Manitoba elk population, (approximately 20,000 individuals) are found in the provincial and national parks of Manitoba and eastern Saskatchewan, Canada. Roosevelt elk , C. elaphus roosevelti, is the largest living elk subspecies in North America. The Roosevelt elk population, approximately 91,000 strong, ranges in temperate rain forests along the Pacific coast from northern California to Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Alaska. Almost exterminated, the desire to protect the Roosevelt elk was one of the primary forces behind the establishment of the Mount Olympus National Monument in 1909 by President Teddy Roosevelt. Rocky Mountain elk, C. elaphus nelsoni, is the most plentiful of the four elk species (800,000 to 900,000 individuals), and is found mainly throughout the Rocky Mountains. However, because of its adaptive nature and variable diet, sustainable populations of Rocky Mountain elk have been successfully introduced or repatriated into historical habitats in many states. Rocky Mountain elk now live in parts of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming. A U GUST 2 0 21
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Six steps to a planning a hunt HUNTER HARRELL COMPLETE A HUNTER’S EDUCATION COURSE. State law requires that hunters complete an approved education course before applying for a license. Both traditional, in-person classes and online courses with an in-person conclusion class are held year-round. Register for hunter education courses online. Remember to bring the certification with you on every hunt.
SELECT A SPECIES TO HUNT. There’s an abundance of wildlife in Colorado. Whether hunting for big game, small game or birds, each different species will offer diverse challenges for hunters. Think about the style of hunting you like to pursue. Do you like to scout and stalk or sit and wait? Depending on the level of activity and adventure you seek, choose a species to hunt. By selecting a species, hunters can plan their adventure for the correct time of the year.
APPLY FOR A LICENSE.
Learn more about qualifying licenses online at www. cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/ Pages/Qualifying-Licenses. aspx.
To complete the application process, gather secure identification, social security number and proof of Hunter Education certification. Coloradoans will need proof of residence, as costs vary for in-state and out-of-state hunters. A current habitat stamp for all hunters between 18 and 64-years-old is required. If applying for a big game license, be sure to have a qualifying license. Then enter the hunt code(s) and payment information. Applicants will only be charged the application processing fee per species. Over-the-counter licenses are available as well. n
CHOOSE WHERE TO HUNT. Colorado is a large state with plenty of public lands which makes access to hunting opportunities more abundant than other states. Determining where it is both safe and legal to hunt can be challenging for visiting hunters. Some folks like to return to the same terrain year after year, while others track harvest statistics scouting hot spots. Check out the interactive Game Management Unit (GMU) maps online at www.cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/Maps.aspx.
DETERMINE METHOD OF TAKE. Like many other states, Colorado offers distinct big game seasons for archery, muzzleloader and rifle hunting. Choosing a hunting method is a requirement before pursuing a license through an application. Remember to brush up on the regulations for transporting weapons as well. These first four steps will help those who wish to apply for a license select the appropriate hunt code.
FIND YOUR HUNT CODE. A hunt code is an eight-character code used to designate the species, sex, GMU, hunting season dates and method of take. Each species has its own Unit Table in the CPW brochure. Using the information you determined through previous steps, select the appropriate code for your application. Hunters may apply for up to four different hunt code choices.
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Need help with a license, state park pass, camping reservation or online account? Call the 24/7 customer service number: (800) 244-5613. AUG UST 20 21
Scoring game informs wildlife programs HUNTER HARRELL Scoring big game animals isn’t always about records. In fact, hunters that harvest animals can contribute to collecting important data about the ecosystem. The Boone and Crockett Club, a nonprofit founded by Theodore Roosevelt in 1887, created the first official big game scoring system in 1902. The collected data helps to objectively measure and evaluate the quality of health and habitats of big game populations in North America. Information from the land and wildlife conservation group is used to assess wildlife management programs. Over its 130-year history, the group has contributed to initiatives
harvesting. Today, several organizations keep records, including Pope and Young, Safari Club International and National Wild Turkey Federation.
that protect wildlife and provided funding for conservation efforts. The Boone and Crockett Club has worked with a number of groups including, but not limited to the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They also were instrumental in beginning the New York Zoological Society, National Audubon Society, Wildlife Management Institute, National Wildlife Federation, Ducks Unlimited and American Wildlife Conservation Partners.
While hunters may be able to unofficially score a big game animal with the right tools, to have wild game officially scored, hunters must contact a certified scoring expert from one of these organizations. For more information about scoring wild game, visit an organization’s website. User-friendly score charts and directions for scoring are also available at www.boone-crockett.org/download-bc-scorecharts. n
Data collection also supports ethical hunting, and prevents unnatural pressures on populations, such as damage to habitats, disease or over-
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Lean and green HUNTER HARRELL
H
unters must do a lot of planning and preparing for a trip, but the advantages of bagging wild game are usually worth the extra work. One reason hunters invest so much time and energy in the sport is to feed their families. That’s because game meat is a healthy, locally-sourced alternative to commercial meat with many environmental and health benefits.
HEALTH Wild game is harvested from natural landscapes, making it truly organic. And unlike farm animals, a natural, varied diet makes the meat more flavorful and nutritious. Game meat is rich in protein, iron and vitamin B. In fact, game birds have more protein than poultry, which makes it a good choice for building muscle strength. Game meat has higher levels of selenium, a mineral important for thyroid gland function and strengthening the immune system. As a source of omega-3 fatty acids, game meat can also decrease symptoms of arthritis. A wild animal’s on-the-go lifestyle makes the meat more lean and lower in fat – and less fat means less grease. Best of all, it is free of antibiotics and hormones.
ENVIRONMENT Not only is game meat more nutritious than farm-raised meat, it also has a lower carbon footprint. Wild game is more sustainable than farming, especially when hunting species that are more abundant such as some birds, squirrels and rabbits. Many environmental experts and wildlife biologists agree that eating these animals is better than allowing them to go to waste. In Colorado, it is illegal for hunters to waste edible wildlife. There are two laws to prevent hunters from wasting meat and trophy hunting. Violating these laws can lead to fines and license suspension points. All in all, wild game is a good choice for you and your local community.
RECIPES
Game meat is more versatile than people know. You don’t have to be an expert to cook game meat safely. Try these simple recipes at home.
OLD-FASHIONED GLAZED TURKEY Ingredients: 1 turkey breast 6 tablespoons of butter 1 cup turkey stock 3 tablespoons of honey 1 tablespoon grated orange rind 2 tablespoons orange juice 6 tablespoons of whiskey ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Salt and pepper to taste Directions: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Then in an oven-proof skillet or dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to the turkey breast and place the breast skin-side down into the butter. Let brown for five minutes, then turn it over and add the stock. Cover with foil or a lid and transfer the turkey to the oven. In a separate skillet, melt the four remaining tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the honey until well combined. Add whiskey of choice, orange juice, orange rind and cayenne pepper and whisk together. Turn off the heat and set aside. Once the turkey has cooked for 10 minutes, brush the turkey with half the glaze, then cover and return to the oven for 20 minutes. Brush the remaining glaze on and leave the foil off for the remaining cook time of 15-20 minutes. The internal temperature should read 140-150 degrees. Let sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
NUTRITION FACTS Deer is leaner than beef, lower in cholesterol, has fewer calories and more protein. A 3-ounce serving contains about 102 calories, 19.5 grams of protein and only 2 grams of fat. Pronghorn antelopes can weigh between 100-150 pounds. A 3-ounce serving includes just 96 calories, 18.9 grams of protein and only 1.7 grams of fat.
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Elk is high in lean protein without being tough. Elk contains 7 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein in a 3-ounce serving.
Bear meat taste is typically affected by the bear’s last meal. Bear contains 220 calories in a 3-ounce serving, 28 grams of protein and 11 grams of fat.
Moose is rich in flavor, but can be tough. A 3-ounce serving contains 114 calories, 25 grams of protein and less than a gram of fat.
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ELK FAJITAS Ingredients:
SWEET AND SOUR BEAR ROAST Ingredients: 3-4 pound round, rump or shoulder roast 2 large onions ¼ cup sugar ¼ cup honey ¼ cup lemon juice ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon salt ½ tablespoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 3 medium carrots, cut into two-inch pieces 1 pound of red potatoes, cut into two-inch pieces
2 pounds of elk back strap, sirloin or roast, sliced into thin, bite-sized pieces 3-4 red, green, orange or yellow peppers, sliced thin 2 pounds of mushrooms, sliced 1 large red onion, sliced 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon coriander ½ teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon olive oil Optional: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream Directions: Combine cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, coriander, and salt, then coat the elk meat in dry rub. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add bell peppers, onions and mushrooms. Saute for 7 minutes, until ingredients are softer. Move the onion, mushrooms and peppers to the side of the skillet to cook elk meat, then mix together before serving with tortillas and fresh toppings.
Directions: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat oil in a dutch oven and brown meat on all sides, turning frequently. Remove from the heat, drain and add the onions. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and clove. Pour the mixture over the roast and onions and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover tightly and roast for 1 hour, occasionally basting. Next, add the carrots and potatoes, submerging them in the pan juices. Continue roasting for 2-3 hours, until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, then serve.
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Fish stories Casting lines, making memories J E N N AY E D E R G E Hooking and reeling in big catches, setting records and winning competitions can put a sparkle in the eye of almost any angler, but even Cortez angler Kelly Jo Hall said it can sometimes be difficult to remember those numbers – sizes, weights, dates – they can all get a little jumbled, especially if you are anything like Hall, who often reels in record-breaking catches. The real memories are often more about the bigger picture rather than the sizes and numbers of the catch– though, those big numbers sure do help. Hall has become infamous in global fishing circles for competing in big catches and breaking records around the world. Earlier this year, Hall held nine world records in women’s freshwater fishing under the IGFA (International Game Fish Association). Her competition in New Zealand just recently broke two of her records, but Hall has no reason to be worried. She has four more world records pending and she gives no hint of stopping.
described as a “beautiful blonde bear, just sitting on the cliff, launching away at some plant life.” The bear, she said, seemed to have no clue she was there until she told the bear to go away and, luckily, it did. “That’s one of the moments that brings together what fishing really means to me, and a lot of other fly fishers; the peace and solitude on the river and interactions with nature,” Ellis said. She did end up getting a nice brook trout that day, but the experience with the bear is what tops off all her fishing experiences. “Fly fishing is so much more than just the fish,” Ellis said. “Sometimes it’s the solitude and the beauty of being on the water by yourself. Sometimes it’s sharing your experiences with other friends, learning from each other and having a good time whether there’s fish or not. Those are all the things that, together, make fly fishing so special.”
Her and her long-time boyfriend, Joe Crosby frequently fish together and are always attempting some sort of record– even if they are just enjoying an afternoon at Vallecito Lake. The couple has recently set a record at Vallecito for catching (and releasing) 116 trout in just a single 6-hour day “And that’s [Kelly] catching them. I sit there and tie the hooks and coach her,” Crosby said. 116 rainbow trout in one day is no easy feat and it quickly became a fun competition between the couple. “There were four poles, two people and he’s tying hooks and I’m reeling the fish in,” Hall said. Even record-setting anglers get out for the fun of it; just to see what they can make of a nice weekend out on the water. Four Corner local, Pauline Ellis’ favorite fishing memories also have less to do with a large competition or a trophy fish and more to do with a beautiful day spent out in nature. Ellis is the president of the Five Rivers chapter of Trout Unlimited and started fly fishing after retiring from the forest service. Even though she felt a little intimidated to begin, she quickly became “totally obsessed” with the sport, she said. After she gained her barings through guided trips, she started to feel comfortable going by herself and had a lot of luck finding local holes that fished well for her. One spot in particular, her secret spot in La Plata Canyon, has given her a bounty of fish and plenty of memories. “One day I was down there with my two little dogs in this one hole that I had been successful with and I looked over at my little yappy dogs who were staring across the creek and I had no idea what they were looking at,” Ellis recalled. She looked across the river and spotted what she
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Kelly Jo Hall
Photo courtesy Joe Crosby AUG UST 20 21
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Advice from anglers Experts encourage studying habitats J E N N AY E D E R G E Like many other anglers, I’ve been fishing most of my life. But it wasn’t until recently that I purchased something other than a MinnieMouse spinning rod. To pass the time during COVID-19 last year, I bought my first fly rod and took it to nearby creeks to mimic favorite scenes in the outdoor-based books and movies I always loved. I wanted to bask in nature, cast my line in a majestic arch, and mostly, eat a bunch of snacks by the water. I hardly got a bite and never caught an actual fish. I thought it was just me. Maybe I was giving out some pheromone that scared the fish away? But, as I recently learned, it was none of that. In actuality, it was my very romanticized idea about fishing that kept me hooking rocks and trees rather than fish, and it eventually led me to local retailer, Duranglers, to get the advice I needed. The thing to do first and foremost, said Duranglers shop manager Andy McKinley, is to take a minute or two to observe and read the water. “Study it for two to three minutes from a vantage point, preferably up the bank if you can,” McKinley said. “It gives you an idea of where fish might be hanging out, or you might see some bug life where you can see fish actively feeding. So, pinpoint where they are before you spook them.”
“It is really important to know the biology of that river...” – Ty Churchwell, San Juan Mountains Coordinator Trout Unlimited
Spooking fish doesn’t take much. Splashing in the water will surely scare off your next catch, along with sudden movements, noises and even strong smells. To avoid sending a fish back into its hiding spot, McKinley suggests approaching from downstream since fish generally face upstream to keep a low profile and be stealthy. But, as hard as it might be to remember that advice, it is for the beginners and as everything else in life, the secret to catching fish is much more nuanced. Ty Churchwell, with Trout Unlimited mimicked much of what McKinley advised, including paying attention to the water, the season, the temperature and the bugs that flying around just above the water called a “hatch.” “Match the hatch,” Churchwell said. “About 340 days of the year the aquatic insects are under the water, it’s only during two short periods of adulthood that they’re on the surface,” Churchwell said. Those two short periods are when aquatic bugs are either flying away to mate, or coming back to the water to lay their eggs; hovering above the water and making themselves available as a meal. Depending on the area, season and other various conditions determines what kind of bugs hatch and what kind of bug is hatching should determine an anglers fly. Thus, matching your fly to the bug that is hatching on the water. “It is really important to know the biology of that river; the more closely you are able to mimic what the trout are wanting to eat and what they see floating by them all the time, the more likely you are to be successful,” Churchwell said. And for the most part, success is what most of us want, and you earn it through education and understanding. “In theory, you’re going to be catching more fish which is going to improve everyone’s mood on the water,” McKinley said. “You’re enjoying nature because you’re disturbing it far less in the sense that you’re approaching everything lightly, not stomping in the water, not making your presence known.” The most important thing, though, McKinley said, “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Have fun and enjoy the process of learning how to fly fish.” n
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Fishing gear Essentials for your tackle box S TA F F R E P O RT They say even the worst day fishing is better than the best day at work. And more people than ever are enjoying the sport nationally. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported that there was an 8% increase in anglers between 2011 and 2017, while expenditures by anglers nationwide rose 2% during the same time, from $45 billion to $46.1 billion. If you’re eager to get into freshwater and fly fishing, you should know that the right gear is essential. For fishing enthusiasts, that gear starts with a rod and reel. Afterward, it is important to fill a tackle box with other essentials. n Extra fishing line: Lines get snagged, torn or snapped when reeling in a big catch, so extra fishing line is essential. n Extra hooks: The traditional J-hook can snag many types of fish, but some anglers like a French hook. No matter which hook you prefer, make sure you have a variety of sizes on hand so you can switch if need be. n A set of fishing pliers: Purchase pliers specifically made for fishing. Most come in aluminum so they will not corrode due to the elements. Also, if you’re using braided fishing line, be sure the pliers have a cutter made for cutting braid. n Bobbers in various sizes: Bobbers, also called floaters, help anglers know when a fish is biting. Round clip-on bobbers are popular and widely available. Slip bobbers will slide up and down the line, enabling anglers to get the hook into deeper water. n Sinkers: The yin to the bobber’s yang, sinkers are weights that help weigh down a worm or artificial lure to reach the right level to attract fish. n Fishing regulations/ruler: A variety of rules govern when and where you can fish. Also, you’ll need to know which size fish are keepers and which need to be released. Keep a regulation ruler in the tackle box to avoid fines. n Pocket knife: Keep a sharp knife for cutting lines and bait. Reserve a special filet knife for cleaning fish. n Selection of lures: Research which fish you’re angling for and then purchase a variety of appropriate lures. Some lures will attract a wide array of fish. n Stringer: A stringer is a device that is used to hold several caught fish through their gills. It anchors to land and the other end with the fish on it is placed in the water to keep the fish alive until you’re ready to pack up and go. It’s a good alternative to a cooler or bucket filled with water. n Fishing license: Many conservation or fish and wildlife departments require a license for fishing for anglers of a certain age. Be sure to have it on hand or you may be susceptible to fines or other penalties. A tackle box with the right gear can help novice fishing enthusiasts get off on the right foot. n A U GUST 2 0 21
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And when you’re on an OHV
Always Stay The Trail
Hunting with an OHV increases your responsibilities in the backcountry. Know the rules and regulations before you go off-highway and always Keep Your Wheels Where They Belong®. More information at
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