Living on Tundra Time!
Contributors to this thread:Caribou
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I have been saving this story and photos until I had time to posted. well that has taken 5 months . So sit back grab a beer or six and enjoy some photos from living on tundra time. HUNT
From: IdyllwildArcher
29-Jan-16
Six it is!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
This hunt started in 2010. That's when I first met Bowsiters Nick Muche. He had moved to Idaho and we started hunting together every chance we got. In 2013 when he moved to Alaska I knew my dream of hunting Caribou was getting closer. After Nicks first trip on the tundra was over. We where making plans for 2015! Plans where made a team was picked and deposit sent I . I spent my summer getting ready. I had plenty of help around the house. Hunt
From: Bear Track
29-Jan-16
How 'bout a Crown and Coke?
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I was shooting everyday making arrows and working out every chance I got. The pre hunt anxiety was building fast. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
August 15 is opening day for antelope in Montana. I was to leave the 19th for Alaska. Well I talked Mama into a camping/hunting trip and we were off for 2 day warm up for Alaska. Had on great chance and came up short. but lots to look forward to for many years to come. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
August 18 I pack for the last time. This is one full bow case. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I kiss the family good bye and board a plane at 730pm. I meet up with my Dad in seattle and we are off to Fairbanks. We arrive in Fairbanks at around 2 am on August 20th. My buddy Matt from Montana is there to pick us up. Nick was tried from him and Matt adventure before we ever got there. We are pumped. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Thursday August 20 we pick up tags and some last minute stuff while Nick works. Soon Nick is off and we head out to do some fishing,Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
we are going Grayling fishing. I cant wait and dam near run off before the truck stops. But I did catch the first fish. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: kota-man
29-Jan-16
This will be a nice little "winter pick me up" story...Especially since I'm heading up this August!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
That night going over gear. Nicks Garage looked like a bomb went off. and yes that's nighttime photo for Alaska in the summer. HUNT
From: Nick Muche
29-Jan-16
This past August was seriously one of the best months I've ever had. It is a complete blur, filled with great friends, incredible fishing all over the state, crazy river rafting, hiking/hunting from the Chugach to the north slope and the memories made will be everlasting. I wish we could do that every single year! Thanks a lot for coming up guys, really looking forward to the next installment of our adventures.
Nice timing of this thread too, I needed a little "pick me up" as winter slowing winds down!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
When I was doing a last gear check I found this in my pocket along with a few inspiration notes from the wife. I smiled and remember just how blessed my life is, Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Friday August 21. We pack the trailer and do some last minutes shopping and food prep. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
The crew packed and ready. I am about to explode. The crew. Hunt 36, Nick 29, Calvin Aka Cbolt 62 and Matt 28. Road TRIP. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
One last stop for gas at Fred Meyers and we are northbound and Down. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
The first stop
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Just taking our time and enjoying the ride. Yukon river. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I was blown away at the size of this cabbage. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Next stop Artic circle.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
we did a little fishing along the way. My Dad with his first grayling. HUNT
From: Nick Muche
29-Jan-16
Trevor (TEmbry) met Matty and I at one of the most ridiculous places I've ever fished. I'd guess we caught several hundred fish in a few days. Matty was in heaven and we tortured Hunt with picture messages all week.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
It's not long and long August days catch up to Mr Muche. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Coldfoot was our next stop for gas and food. The buffet there is as good as it gets anywhere much less BFE Alaska.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
After dinner we hit the road again.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
After Dinner we stop bye Jonah Stewart Sheep camp. I was in awe of the giant rams they had killed and his 2 year old boy running around living the life.HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
After the pass we stop at Zac Bowhay camp and get the low down. Just like everyone else was saying 2015 was a tough caribou year on the north slope. Some outfitters even canceled trips. A few miles after Zacz camp I see some caribou about a mile away. Then with the binoculars up I see 2 white wolves and a black one chasing a bull. Yep it's real we are in Alaska. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We make camp for the night mile maker 301. I am up early the next morning and was blessed with a great sunrise. It August 22. Happy birthday Dad. What a way to spend it. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: Mad_Angler
29-Jan-16
HUNT... I normally wouldn't say anything but...
Your wife sure looks pretty rugged after just 2 days of antelope hunting in Montana...
:)
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We get up and head to Arrowhead Outfitters camp. We arrive a day early. But they said they cam get us out today if we want. Hell yes and please. We go to packing again. HUNT
From: Nick Muche
29-Jan-16
Having Matty along on my goat hunt was great. Never argued, nearly capsized a raft, hiked to a glacier, watched an avalanche, got "waterfalled" out with 95lb packs and had to catch rain water to drink.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We do are paperwork with Deb the camp host. After that she says two groups are ahead of us. So me and Matt head to fish the Sag . Nick and my Dad hang out. Its 1pm. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
3pm we head to the dock to load up. There is a group of 6 guys coming in. they only have 2 bulls. They said it tough going and not many caribou. that's hunting. The pilot say that all you got for gear? yep. and we were worried about being over weight at 70 pounds each.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Me and my Dad in one plane and Nick and Matt in the other. Its go time. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
coming in hot
From: Medicinemann
29-Jan-16
Hunt and Nick,
Thanks for what is becoming an outstanding Bowsite thread.
Nick,
I gotta ask....did you wake up with a stiff neck when you fell asleep on the long drive?
Interesting to see that the IBEP certification requirement has already made the highway signs!!
From: Medicinemann
29-Jan-16
Did you see any caribou (or other game) while you guys were flying?
I realize that this question may have different answers for both Nick and Hunt, but I was wondering what both of you are estimating for your maximum "first arrow" shot distances?...especially with cover being so scarce....
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: Nick Muche
29-Jan-16
Jake, I was only asleep for a few minutes, amazing he could snap a pic :)
We saw a few caribou on the flight in but not many.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Jake we saw maybe 10 bou and that's it. We land and start unloading gear and setting up camp. Camp is a 6 man teepee , cabelas outfitter tent and a MSR Hubba hubba. By 530 camp is set up and ready. Well almost we left my Dads air matress at the truck. He was upset until I gave him mine. I sleep on a bowcase and a crooked creek chair for ten days. Oh well we were in Alaska on my Dads birthday and life was grand. HUNT
From: TD
29-Jan-16
HUNT maybe.... Nick's likely still sleepin'.... =D
Great stuff, keep it comin'...
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
The Tundra is a beautiful but brutal place all in one. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
The Brooks were breath taking to me the whole time.
From: orionsbrother
29-Jan-16
Great thread!
I've slept on a Crazy Creek Camp Chair. Definitely not optimal.
Looking forward to the rest of the story.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Its 630 and we plan to go scout. Well Nick and Matts Bromance is in full rut after 3 weeks of adventure. so they run off holding hands to the east. My Dad wants to soak it all in. so I head north along the creek flowing out of the lake. takes me a mile and three tries to cross but I find a good spot and gps it. I have a rock I can see two ridges over. looks 20 minutes away. hour later I see my first caribou. I am still 30 minutes from the rock. I have learned 2 things in a couple hours on the ground. One. Alaska is BIG. Two. The Tundra is no joke. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I make it to the rock. And below me is what I have dreamed about for years. A huge 5 mile across ten mile long valley. I am 2.1 miles from camp. I start to glass up some caribou. a few here and there. I am pissed I left my spotting scope at home. Remember this is big country.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Bout 9pm I head back to camp. still 3 hours of daylight left.Wow I am going to have to pace myself. This is not a sprint, its a marathon hunt. I am blown away at the terrain. Its not bow hunter friendly, that's for sure. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Back at camp we talk about what we saw over a mountain house. Plan was made to hunt together tomorrow. We go to bed with the sun still up. 11pm. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Sunday August 23. I am up early again. It is super foggy and socked in.HUNT
From: Medicinemann
29-Jan-16
Did you guys pack a piece of foam that you could practice shooting at, while in camp?
Glad to hear that you guys are enjoying some great camp banter.......it's the best!!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
10 am still socked in and I am getting antsy. I Bark at Nick and Matt to get up. They do but I pay for it the rest of the day. LOL. We load up the packs and head out.Its slow going for my Dad. We each take turns hanging back with him. Water break. HUNT
From: Nick Muche
29-Jan-16
Jake,
We took a few shots into the tundra, it worked fine. Only two of us brought Bows, so if you are looking for strictly a bowhunting adventure, this won't be for you. Hunt took his bow everywhere, mine never left the Tipi. I was so focused on making sure my friends got what they came for, watching them enjoy every second and with the lack of caribou, shooting an animal didn't even cross my mind until day 4 I think and when we saw a Caribou I wanted, my bow was 3 miles away.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Jake we did not take a target. We learned a ton on this trip and will go over what I would do different on the next one. Grab another beer and sit back and enjoy. But Here is a WARNING. Gun kills are about to be posted. if you don't want to see them then don't look. If you want to see a great adventure in a great place. Then enjoy. HUNT
From: kota-man
29-Jan-16
Bring it on!!!!!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We get to the valley where I was yesterday . There are a few caribou here and there. We set up shop to glass. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
After 2 hours of glassing. Totals are 2 bull caribou 2 miles away 63 cows here and there and 5 Yes 5 HUNTERS. to say we are upset is a understatement . We make aplan for Matt and my Dad to stalk the best of the 2 bulls. There a mile out and bedded now. Hour later I watch my Dad kill his first Caribou. We head that way. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Here my impression of the caribou when he shot it. Good times. Thanks Dad for starting the fire many years ago. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We take photos and go to work. Sit back and watch Dad we got this. 2.6 miles from camp. We are working for it and loving it. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Tagged and bagged
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Never a dull moment with us. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Happy man back at the glassing spot. 530pm.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Good times. Wet feet. Its Muck boots from here on. Kenetreks are good but this is a WET place. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Never can turn up any more bulls. So around 830pm we head to camp. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Back at camp. Its time to try some caribou. We brought 15 pounds of matchlight and a small grill. Whiskey out of the bottle and meat with our hands. We are living good now. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
the next morning 8-24-15. I am up making breakfast over the fire . I look up and see some caribou sky lined 2 miles to the south. Nick wake up. Why ? I want to see the spotter. Out comes nick with the scope to take a look. 2 seconds later shit is flying and we are running out of camp. we eat breakfast on the go. literally. HUNT
From: jfish
29-Jan-16
What a BLAST! keep it coming, life long dream here!!!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
It was Matts day to be up first. Like Nick said early Matt is one of a kind and I have known him since he was 12. He is a hell of a hunter,father and business man. Proud to call him a close friend. Anyways we crawl in to 7 bulls. Matts up and they are feeding from 130 to 250 but the wind is going to give us up soon. Matt pulls the trigger and Click. WTF. He recovers and drops the best bull. I go into kill mode and kill the next best one. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
After a few photos we head to mine. Just what I wanted. velvet swinging horns bloody. so happy. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
HUNT
From: desert_rat
29-Jan-16
Awesome adventure. Thanks for taking us along. Always love your stories. Can't wait for the rest....
From: WoodMoose
29-Jan-16
congrats!! great story, thanks for sharing,,,,,love Alaska,,,,,,,,,,
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We work mine up and head back to Matts. Always something going on with these guys.
From: Dyjack
29-Jan-16
Great read, thank you for posting
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We put up my tarp on the poles and make some shade. it 55-60 out and no bugs. A rare Alaska day.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
By 3 pm we are ready to load up and head back. 1.4 miles to camp. HUNT
From: svrelk
29-Jan-16
Great read HUNT MAN!
From: John Haeberle
29-Jan-16
How did the tipis do on the tundra. I'm planning a similar 2017 hunt, and would take a six man tipi. No use bringing the stove, eh?
And can you comment a bit on hunter numbers?
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Back at camp around 530. Hey Nick can I use the Sat phone. Sure. It want turn on. what? let me see it. It want lock on. the antenna is broke. This sucks. Its Day 3 of 10 and the phone is down. Oh well they said they would check on us. Here is nick as we worked on the phone for hours. If it wasn't broke before it is now!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We prepare a tundra feast. Meat pockets with potato and onions. mountain house chicken and rice. All on a tortilla. So good. HUNT
From: Nick Muche
29-Jan-16
The Tipi worked great for gear, food and hanging out.
Fire you say? Oh yes, we had a fire every night! But, we found some old wood and carried it all back to camp.
Damn SAT phone. It actually made the trip kind of fun but at the same time thank goodness no one was injured and there were no emergencies.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
The tipi did great and a stove would have been great but VERY little wood and we worked hard for our fires.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Fat and happy we go to bed. the bow case never felt so good. HUNT
From: Willieboat
29-Jan-16
Looks like it was a great trip !! Thanks for taking the time for a write up
From: IdyllwildArcher
29-Jan-16
Looks like you guys had a great time. Grats!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
8-25-15. Starts the same . I spot 4 bulls south of the lake. long story short we ran past them as my Dad took a break with no weapon. Matt and Nick head east and me and Dad back to camp.
From: Medicinemann
29-Jan-16
Fantastic thread.....when you said five hunters....that's counting the four of you, and one other hunter that you could see in the distance?......or is that five distinct "groups" of hunters?
From: Rutnomore
29-Jan-16
Guys, Thank you for taking us along, I admire your sense of adventure and how well you all work together. At 69 yrs old, I'm sure this is not on my bucket list but your post gives me a feel and peek at it.
From: BOWUNTR
29-Jan-16
Outstanding.... congratulations. Ed F
From: orionsbrother
29-Jan-16
One of the things that I enjoy about your threads is that it's obvious that you're having a blast!
Thanks for sharing that with us.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
On the way back to camp I saw one of the bulls paralleling the lake heading north. Dad was done for the day. So after lunch I head out to the glassing rock. After the creek crossing I catch movement ahead of me. its the bulls from earlier. they are heading to the brush. I need to cut them off. I run a semi circle and get in the creek bottom. I am wading up the creek thigh deep. but my rain pants over the mucks with gaiters over that is keeping me dry. I pop up where I think they are. they beat me there and are 145 yards on the other side. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
No that was us four plus a group of 2 and a group of 3. Not what you are hoping for in the middle of Alaska
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
So I follow them using the creek to stay out of sight. The wind is good and I have plenty of time.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I was working hard to stay out of sight. Little did I know that Nick and Matt was watching the whole thing go down. If you look close you can see the bulls over my head. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
So the bulls are going into a bowl . I am on the downhill side of the bowl. I have to cross the creek again and its deep. I take a step back and go for it. on the other side I jog to get in front of the bull. Here is Matts photos of me moving in. you will have to look close to see me and the bulls. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
I move in to where I think they should be. I see the little one out in the bowl. I hear something behind me. I turn around to see Nick and Matt sitting on the hill. Nick is jumping up and down with his trekking poles on his head. I bino them and turn around to see horns coming at me. I drop my pack and crawl like a snake . 105. crawl 97 crawl wind is not going to be good soon.88 and closing. crawl. 79 walking left to right with the wind blowing to the left at 20. I stand up anchor and am following him as he feeds. the bow goes off and the arrow go right in front of his chest. Never been so sad hunting. here they are just after the miss. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
That's hunting. I blew it. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We group up and laugh/ cry about the hunt and head to camp in the rain. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
8-26-15. We wake up to rain and about 30 yards of visablity . It never breaks until Friday 8-28-15. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We play cards. some poker but a lot of spades. A lot. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
The Ante. HUNT
From: Stekewood
29-Jan-16
Love this thread. Everything that hunting is about. Great stuff.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Friday 8-28-15. The weather finally breaks. Dad wants to hang close to camp. So Me and nick and Matt head south. Things are different today. Caribou are on the move.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
From: Ron Niziolek
29-Jan-16
Awesome stuff guys!
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We find some bulls and move there way. After the rain. any creek that was a foot deep is now 3 feet deep and moving. Had to stop on the way and dry out. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We move in closer. Its Nicks day to shoot. Its not a bull he wants. so I grab my bow and matt follows me. 125 comes easy. They are feeding and we follow. at 90 the little one bust me and they run off. and Matt runs off after them. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
After we find Matt and call him off the bulls. We sit down for lunch. 7 seconds later Nick finds the bull he wants and we are off to the races. Man I was looking forward to some lunch. Before long we close in on the bull. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
We wait for him to stand as the wind blows 25 left to right. We are out of cover at 205. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
It happened fast and didn't all go as planned but Nick made it happen and had a great bou on the ground. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Hammertime.
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
As it starts to rain we get him broke down and loaded up. 2.4 miles to camp. Can I eat now? HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
On the way back to camp we hear a shot. Man I hope Dad got a big one. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
Well it was just him adding a Ptarmigan to his list. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
29-Jan-16
8-29-15 Last day to hunt. Nick and my Dad stay close to camp. hoping the plane would come by to check on us. No outside contact in 5 days. I said I would call every other day. Me And Matt head out on a Mission. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
We had to cross the creek in the same spot everytime. It was one pole in the creek and jump. only to land in a foot of water. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
We make it to the valley. Caribou in every direction but none close. Close is a mile in Alaska. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
We see lots of Caribou. It is hard to tell a good bull at 2-3 miles in 10 power binos. Nick had the scope in camp. I get a glimpse of white horn on the willows as a bull is walking. We make a plan.HUNT
From: Nick Muche
30-Jan-16
Man, I was there and I still want more. Waiting 5 months to post really allows one to appreciate just how much fun we had. Hopefully you all are enjoying this!
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
They are moving at Caribou pace. That's way faster than me on the tundra. 2 miles of following the herd they bed down. We crawl in up a creek. knee deep the whole way. We run out of cover at 125. 3 bulls .
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
I like what I see and make it count. Matt takes the other bull and we double up again. A long way from camp and 2 bulls down on the last day. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
If you look close at the photo. you can see my bull in the background. We are flying high now.HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
From: JW
30-Jan-16
Awesome recap guys! no doubt about it, you're having a blast!
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
This was going to be a test. One full Caribou each and our gear. 2.83 across a floating basketball.
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
I unload my pack and eat as much as I can. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Takes 3 hrs to get them broke down and ready for the pack. Here we go. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Matt loving every step. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
After 3 hours we are back in camp. Flying out tomorrow tags punched lets party Tundra style.
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Dinner time. HUNT
From: Nick Muche
30-Jan-16
Seeing you two come back with two bulls on your back was exactly what I expected. Calvin and I watched you guys through the spotter. Knew there would be more blood :)
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
8-30-15 Fly out day we think. No phone and no fly over. We made a sign on the beach. NO PHONE. But they will be here. 1pm rolls to 3 pm and no plane. Caribou all over. Nick and my Dad have a tag. We don't want to leave camp. We burn all of the wood and eat like kings. They have to be coming. Right?
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
More to come.
From: Ole Coyote
30-Jan-16
It is 4:59AM still can't use the bow but getting closer! Got coyotes talking on the hillside going to see if I ca get on with the rifle! Wish me good luck!
From: brianhood
30-Jan-16
What an adventure
From: Julius K
30-Jan-16
Wow, this is great. I've been waiting for this thread to pop up.
From: orionsbrother
30-Jan-16
Hunt - What's your guesstimate of your pack weight with the meat, skull and rack?
Digging your dad's Big Gulp Go Cup! What is that, a 42 ouncer?
From: Pyrannah
30-Jan-16
sounds really cool....thanks for sharing
From: drkauffman
30-Jan-16
Thank you so much for taking us along. What an adventure! Congratulations to all!
From: Nick Muche
30-Jan-16
No idea on exact pack weight for the caribou, but Matty and I weighed our goat packs once we made it out and they were 90 & 94 lbs. To me, the caribou pack outs were heavier!
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
I have packed a lot of animals on my back. Over 30 elk and lots of bears and deer. This pack was by far the heaviest . I would say with gear and head with a full boned out bull with neck and rib meat. 130-135. I had a bruise on my back for 3 weeks. cant wait to do it again. Lets get to the Rest of the story. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Everytime we hear a plane we all get excited. In 9 days we only saw our plane once. It had floats so easy to pick out. 3pm turns to 5pm. They said they don't fly after 6pm. There is lots of Caribou around. There is one bull with great tops. After watching him all day and trying to get my Dad to go. Nick breaks and him and Matt head that way. I can see the whole thing in the spotter. Before long I see the bull fall way before I hear the shot. Super cool. I go get water and head there way as it starts to snow. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
The snow is coming down hard as we get back to camp with bull number 7. We head to the tent. So they are not coming today. I fly out Tuesday and Nick has to work for the first time in a month Tuesday morning. My Dad is kinda freaked out. We eat our last days worth of food as it snows.
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
The water source is getting smaller.This spring was some of the best water I have every tasted. The lake water Not so much. clogged every filter we brought and used up all our drops. We were using about 10 liters a day. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
We all put in our last breakfast stuff. 3 packets of oatmeal and instant breakfast. split 4 ways. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
10am turns to 1pm and we all sing . Will Howard come today? Lunch time and my Dad is SAD over his portion . HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
By 5pm. we know he is not coming today. I fly out in 25 hours and Nick has to work in 14 hours. Nick says that the blue lights will go off when he does not show up for work. We have been in the tent for 30 hours now. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
We have 4 mountain house meals left and a few snacks. We split one Mac and Cheese with 2 tuna packets 4 ways. We look at the Gps 31 miles as a crow flies to the Hwy. with 2 river crossing. So if they don't come by Wednesday Matt was going to walk out. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
9-1-15 . Its September . About 10 am a plane buzzes the tent. Howard comes TODAY!!!. We all jump up and its the plane. He says he has another group ahead of us. But the US airforce and 4 Mad wives needed him to check in on us. By 12 he is back and takes my Dad and 5 bulls. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Nick is next out with the rest of the meat and half the gear. Me and Matt make a map with all gps coordinates of our spots. where we got wood and water. glassing spots and where to cross the creek. We put in a ziplock bag and duct taped it to a old fuel can in camp. Hope someone finds it. Here comes the plane and we load up. 3pm. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
At the truck we packed up and got ready for a 24 hour drive home. Best Budlight I have ever had.
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
The drive home looked a little different. All we can think about is the buffet in Coldfoot.
From: Nick Muche
30-Jan-16
"All we can think about is the buffet in Coldfoot."
And the maybe legal sheep I had no energy to chase! Still bummed about that.
From: ahawkeye
30-Jan-16
Wow! what an adventure!
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
We Saw a few of these but no problems.
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Yes the sheep. Forgot about him. Heading home
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
A great trip all around. Had alittle bit of everything for weather. Great friends and one Hell of a adventure.
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
I can't Thank Nick enough for making my dream hunt happen. Thanks Bud cant wait till the next one. Kodiak Island here we come. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
The next day I clean up my meat and get it ready to take home. Life is good. Besides the Yellowjackets. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Trailer looks a little different on the way home. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
30-Jan-16
Before long it's time fly home. I bought home 185 pounds of meat. Had to check 6 bags. Alaska airlines card helped with that. Hunt
From: LUNG$HOT
30-Jan-16
Awesome thread guys! Looks like so much fun. Thats a lot of meat between all of you. Happy eating.
From: Mark Watkins
30-Jan-16
Congrats on an incredible adventure boys!!!
Great pics, fun and storytelling!!!
Thanks!
Mark
From: Joe D
30-Jan-16
Excellent, thanks for sharing!w
From: otcWill
30-Jan-16
Loved it! Thanks for taking the time. Spectacular hunt, story, and pics!
From: CPAhunter
30-Jan-16
WOW the anticipation I had while reading this!
Questions:
1. Is there ever that feeling of getting lost? On a real hazy/snowy day it's pretty easy to not believe a GPS or it won't work altogether due to cloud cover. Obviously you carry a compass but that will get you back to camp only in the general direction provided you don't pass it by.
2. Why didn't the transporter/pilot check on you during the trip?
3. Why was the plane late?
Thanks again for sharing!
From: standswittaknife
30-Jan-16
loved the hunt...tons of work posting all of this and it was worth it.. thanks and congrats.
From: itshot
30-Jan-16
outstanding!
thanks
From: JRABQ
30-Jan-16
Thanks for taking me along on the adventure, hope mine is half as good as yours was.
From: Bowboy
30-Jan-16
Looks like you all had an awesome trip thanks for sharing! Also great pictures!
From: TD
30-Jan-16
Great story, you always show an tell a good one, that's for sure. Thanks much for takin' us along. "tons of work posting all of this" not to mention just taking some of those pics.... heheheheh...
Can't wait for the "what I would have done/taken differently" part too. Part Deux?
From: LKH
30-Jan-16
Great story. I've killed quite a few caribou hunting the Haul Road and you guys couldn't have been in tougher country. Almost no contour and flat.
I think you did great and the fact you used rifles is no surprise.
Next time try to get dropped near a river or big creek so you have contour.
Great job, super story.
From: Nick Muche
30-Jan-16
LKH, where I was dropped off last year was perfect for bow hunting and fishing as well. Was really hoping we'd get the same spot this year.
From: LongbowLes
30-Jan-16
Congrats guys! Thanks for sharing.
From: trkyslr
30-Jan-16
Looks like an awesome trip.. I'm sure it was as a matter of fact! Thanks for sharing gents.
From: IdyllwildArcher
30-Jan-16
Awesome!
Glad you guys had a great time. Thanks for taking the time to post it up.
From: Julius K
31-Jan-16
That was awesome, thanks for taking the time to share all of the pics.
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
What worked and What I will do different next time. Trekking poles are a must in the Tundra. They help EVERY step.
Sunglasses and chap stick. The wind always blows and with snow on the tundra the glare was blinding.
Muck boots. Even with the heavy loads. Paired with my rain pants and gaiters. I stayed dry the whole trip.
The grill and charcoal . Eating fresh meat with the fire was a treat every night.
Cards and a notebook. Great for down time and we had lots of that.
Most important. Good friends and people you HAVE HUNTED WITH BEFORE. . HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
What I Will do different next time.
Take my own spotting scope. The tundra is huge and glassing is the name of the game here. When the bulls lose there velvet its hard to see head gear in the binos at a mile plus.
Pair of camp shoes. I took 2 pair of boots, but I think crocs and mucks would do it.
Have your pilot fly you around your area before you land. They just dropped us off and left. a quick 5 minute flight would have been great.
If you are dead set on bow only. make sure they drop you somewhere with cover. a river or creek. maybe closer to the mountains. There was no terrain here at all. Tallest piece of cover maybe 18 inches. Also be ready to shoot at walking animals in the wind.
There are a lot better places to Bowhunt caribou in Alaska besides the north slope. Can it be done ? Yes and I will make it happen one day.
Add more than 2 days to the tail end of your hunt. This cost me 300 dollars to re book my ticket.
From: simek
31-Jan-16
Bad azz.
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
Cost of the trip.
plane ticket from Missoula MT to Fairbanks AK. 660. I used my Alaska airlines card. cost 0.
Tags and hunting license 325 a piece for caribou, 30 for wolf and 230 for season fishing and hunting. 910
Transporter 2500.
Rental car. Nick saved us there. Thanks bowsite
Misc Euro mount shipped home of my Caribou 425.
200 for supplies and food on the road.
200 for gas
Sat phone. Nick saved us again on that. Well Kinda. we did find out it has a external antenna.
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
A few more photos cause I took over 2000. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
A few more photos cause I took over 2000. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
A few more photos cause I took over 2000. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
A few more photos cause I took over 2000. HUNT
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
A few more photos cause I took over 2000. HUNT
From: Butternut40
31-Jan-16
Great story and photos. Thanks for sharing. On my list of things to do.
Is it unusual for the transporter not to check in on you or do a fly by every x number of days? Or were the delays weather related?
From: HUNT MAN
31-Jan-16
They said they would check on us every few days. We never saw them. They said they flew over but we had a huge sign on the beach NO PHONE. They were 3 days late picking us up but that's was from weather and to many people in the field. It was 10000 for the four of us to fly in. We flew for maybe 25 minutes one way. They are making good money. Nothing is cheap in Alaska.
Yes the fog and low visibility make it hard to get around much less glass. We spent those days close to camp.
There ended up being 2 camps within 2 miles of our camp. I was hoping for a little more solitude.
From: cbolt
31-Jan-16
Wow , what an adventure of a lifetime and I am so blessed to have been able to do this with my fine son and Nick and Matte. It would have been impossible for me to have pulled this off without them.it was a hell off a way to experience my birthday. Hunt , you did an incredible job of recapping this and I thank you for that! I will look back on this the rest of my days as the greatest adventure ever! Just remember this and teach to Ridge. TA YOW from Papaw!
From: midwest
31-Jan-16
Thanks for the recap and all the pics! Great adventure!
From: WV Mountaineer
31-Jan-16
You men are living the dream. I'm floored with envy. Great stuff as always from you guys. You are the real deal. God Bless men and congratulations.
From: AZBUGLER
31-Jan-16
Simply awesome! Thank you for posting. I'm still trying to find a way to make this hunt happen. Hoping for next 2-4 years!
From: Dwayne
31-Jan-16
From someone who always thought about caribou hunting on the haul road but now am simply too old to do it.....THANKS so much!
From: huntinelk
31-Jan-16
Excellent write up. I have this same trip booked with my son for 2018.
From: OFFHNTN
01-Feb-16
Thanks guys!!! CONGRATS on a fantastic trip! Not only with great animals, but the fun it looked like you all had was awesome! Had me laughing at my puter at times! Classic write up and excellent pictures!
From: GhostBird
01-Feb-16
Congratulations on a great adventure!!!
From: Mark Watkins
01-Feb-16
One thing is for sure.....you guys never have any fun on your trips!! Had me laughing out loud!
A Bowsite Classic for sure.....well done gents!
Mark
From: Surfbow
01-Feb-16
Man, epic trip!
From: Beav
02-Feb-16
Damn boys this is just what we needed! What a great hunt and write up Hunt. Nothing better than good friends and hunting in Alaska. Congrats on a great trip and thanks so much for sharing.
From: GotBowAz
02-Feb-16
LKH, where I was dropped off last year was perfect for bow hunting and fishing as well. Was really hoping we'd get the same spot this year.
Nick, if thats the case then why couldn't you request the same location?
From: Nick Muche
02-Feb-16
There was already a group there.
From: TD
02-Feb-16
Looked like two plane loads (two planes?) going in for 4 guys.
How many trips did it take to get your animals and gear out? Guessing they charge for that accordingly....
From: HUNT MAN
02-Feb-16
It was two trips in. And took 3 trips to get out. The price is the same no matter how many trips . They also said they will move you once. But you lose a day of hunting if you move. No hunting the same day you fly. Hunt
From: Nick Muche
02-Feb-16
Two planes took us in.
One plane picked us up with several trips.
Flat rate on cost no matter the trips.
From: Buffalo1
02-Feb-16
A really neat compilation of your Alaskan adventure. Very obvious you fellas had a great time and enjoyed each other's company. Real friendship there. Thanks for sharing with us.
From: TEmbry
03-Feb-16
Awesome hunt guys. Still pissed I didn't get a chance to make it up to Fairbanks while you were up this way. Guess I'll just catch you next time, when I can actually go hunting!
From: Bernie1
03-Feb-16
Great Thread, I enjoyed it!
Brought back some good memories, last time I hunted caribou was 2003.
From: willliamtell
03-Feb-16
Great writeup, GREAT Photos. Despite the previous crew getting so few it looks like you-all did really well. Rifle for sure on that pancake terrain. How could you set it up so that you got dropped off near a river or some elevation for sure? And how is the meat? I hear different things depending on proximity to the rut, etc.
From: Nick Muche
03-Feb-16
One rarely can hunt caribou in a predetermined location. You caribou hunt where caribou are, that changes yearly. On a hunt like this, you hunt where they take you, that's where the caribou are. You could ask to be put somewhere with better terrain, but wouldn't you rather be where there are animals?
The meat is great! All comes down to how well one takes care of it in the field. That said, I wouldn't be planning a rut hunt for caribou to get meat, but in August you don't have to worry about the rut.
From: brianhood
03-Feb-16
" Kodiak in 2017" I bet the brown bears will be swimming to russia when your crew hits the beach. Whats on the menu on that hunt?
From: Franzen
04-Feb-16
Congratulations on getting to share a great adventure with your father! ...and those other guys!
From: HUNT MAN
04-Feb-16
Brian , Deer will be are main focus on the Kodiak hunt. But I bet Nick and Trevor will have a Goat tag just in case we get penned down.
Thanks guys for all the kind words. I encourage all of You to take a trip of a lifetime every chance you get !
From: TEmbry
04-Feb-16
Kodiak 2017 will be one for the books. Maybe Nick or I will strike gold and snag a bear tag in the process.
Moose coming up after that Hunt?
From: Brotsky
04-Feb-16
Awesome write up gentlemen. Truly a dream trip for many of us on Bowsite. Excellent story and pics. Memories of this hunt will last a lifetime. Thank you for sharing!
From: Paul@thefort
29-Feb-16
Glad I just pick up on this hunt. Very very, nice.
my best, Paul
From: Shug
29-Feb-16
Congratulations on an amazing trip..
From: Florida Mike
29-Feb-16
Wow! Great adventure guys. Mike
From: DoubleGunDennis
01-Mar-16
What an awesome story and adventure!!!!
I felt like i went along with you!
From: HUNT MAN
11-Mar-16
Just had my last caribou back strap. Oh man was it good . Now I am ready to go back for Some more. Hunt
From: HUNT MAN
27-Aug-16
TTT . Hope this helps you find it Terry and best of Luck . Hunt
From: Guardian Hunter
27-Aug-16
You guys tell an excellent story. I really enjoyed it. It was so nice to hear a tale that didn't involve a line like "without a certain bow or certain Broadhead this couldn't have happened". God bless the true bowhunter.
From: decoy
27-Aug-16
Really enjoy this pic trip with you Hunt. You folks are the real deal. Thanks
From: Nick Muche
28-Aug-16
Man I love it up there. Been living on tundra time since mid July. See you fellas in a few weeks!
