Ep. 119: Elk, Deer, and Antelope with Josh Boyd
Cutting The Distance
Deep Dive
What is the significance of Josh Boyd's hunting season in Montana?
Josh Boyd had a successful hunting season in Montana, focusing on elk, antelope, and mule deer. He hunted primarily in September, October, and November, taking advantage of the long seasons in Montana. He also shared a nostalgic story about hunting in the same area his great-grandfather did, which added a personal and historical layer to his experience.
Why does Josh Boyd prefer hunting antelope in October?
Josh prefers hunting antelope in October because the weather is more favorable compared to the brutal heat of August. Additionally, October falls between archery and general rifle seasons, making it an ideal time for a long weekend trip to the prairie.
What challenges do elk hunters face during the rut?
Elk hunters often face challenges with bugling patterns during the rut. Bulls may bugle intensely at night and early morning but become silent by midday. This behavior can make it difficult to locate and call in bulls during the day, requiring hunters to use creative calling strategies.
What is Josh Boyd's connection to his great-grandfather's hunting area?
Josh Boyd has a deep connection to his great-grandfather's hunting area in Wyoming, where he hunted as a child. His family has a long history of hunting in that region, dating back generations. This fall, he returned to the area as an adult to experience the landscape and hunting traditions firsthand.
What is Josh Boyd's opinion on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer?
Josh believes CWD may have been present in deer populations longer than currently recognized, with increased detection due to more widespread testing. He acknowledges the seriousness of the issue but questions whether current management strategies, such as culling deer, will effectively address the problem.
What was the story behind Josh Boyd's giant whitetail buck?
Josh Boyd spent months scouting and preparing for a giant whitetail buck he spotted after the previous hunting season. He passed up smaller bucks and eventually harvested the buck during rifle season using a bow, a decision inspired by his interest in Eastern whitetail hunting techniques. The buck scored an estimated 182 inches.
What is Josh Boyd's approach to antelope hunting?
Josh Boyd treats antelope hunting as a trophy hunt by scouting and glassing for big bucks before the season. He often hunts miles away from roads, using a backpack to pack out the animal. This approach allows him to make the hunt as challenging and rewarding as he wants.
What is Josh Boyd's experience with elk hunting in Wyoming?
Josh Boyd had a memorable elk hunting trip in Wyoming, where he encountered a massive bull elk and observed a bear feeding on it. The experience was heightened by the presence of a large black bear that resembled a grizzly, adding an element of excitement and danger to the hunt.
- Successful elk and antelope hunts in Montana and Wyoming.
- Strategies for hunting antelope, including scouting and packing.
- Preference for hunting larger animals, but not strictly a trophy hunter.
- Comparison of hunting experiences in different terrains and seasons.
Shownotes Transcript