BUCKET LIST BULL
Contributors to this thread:Elk
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
STAY TUNED
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
It seems that the term "bucket list" has not been around that long but for some, it can provide goals or objective or acts or accomplishments that one would like to do before one dies. The movie, The Bucket List, staring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, written my Justin Zackham in 2007 was of that nature.
Hunters surely can produce a list of acts, or accomplishment that they would like to do before the Grim Reaper, shows up. How about a Dall Sheep hunt in the NW Territories, an Alaska moose hunt, or a trip to far off Africa.
I had thought that a bow hunt for a Dall Sheep might top my list, right after winning the Power Ball Lottery and then taking Tricia a trip around the World. I might have done that back in the day when I was working and could afford the Dall Sheep hunt, but work got in the way and now retired, I have more free time but lack the finances.
I have been fortunate to have killed the Colorado Big Eight Species with the Compound bow although I killed my very first deer in 1962 with a recurve bow and then a few after that, In 2010 I killed my very first PY White Tailed deer with the stick and later a few turkeys, a couple of geese, more that a dozen yard rabbits, and one or two more White Tailed deer.
Since being in Colorado since 1991, I have killed 13 elk with the compound bow and last year I missed a bull with the Great Plains recurve bow as I had a nock malfunction on a bull at 20 yards. A week later I used my compound bow and killed a bull at 21 yards. Oh Well.
So before this elk season started, I looked into the bucket and saw that the goal of killing a bull elk was still on the list. I needed to do something positive about that. Started practicing in earnest, added a fast flight string to the 55# bow, purchase a dozen of Gold Tip Traditional arrow which I would add a 175 grain, vent less, VPA broadhead.
One Sept 1, I hiked up to elk camp in one of Colorado's wilderness area, for the hunt that would begin the next day. At the age of 81, I was just as excited to be bow hunting as I was on the day I killed my first deer in 1962 and like that hunt almost 60 years ago, I had a stick in my hand and my bucket list goal on my mind.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Paul with first deer 59 years ago
Paul with first deer 59 years ago
First Colorado bull elk in 1989. Moved from Ohio to Colorado in 1991.
First Colorado bull elk in 1989. Moved from Ohio to Colorado in 1991.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
The day before the season, I looked at my 40# back pack and wished I had an elevator to get me to camp 2 miles up hill, at 10,200 ft, and a gain of 1100 ft in elevation..
The day before the season, I looked at my 40# back pack and wished I had an elevator to get me to camp 2 miles up hill, at 10,200 ft, and a gain of 1100 ft in elevation..
2 hrs later, almost there
2 hrs later, almost there
and when you get to camp, make camp. Same spot I have been camping at during 4 other elk seasons.
and when you get to camp, make camp. Same spot I have been camping at during 4 other elk seasons.
No surprise, lack of snow pack, left many streams with out water. I found this seep 500 yards from camp draining into the dry creek bed.
No surprise, lack of snow pack, left many streams with out water. I found this seep 500 yards from camp draining into the dry creek bed.
From: BULELK1
17-Sep-21
Having fun for sure Paul--------->
Good luck, Robb
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
Best of luck Paul. I carried my longbow opening week. Didn’t kill an elk but had many close calls.
From: Treeline
17-Sep-21
Got a feeling we are gonna get a to see Paul check one off the list…
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
Man I hope so!
From: Supernaut
17-Sep-21
Always love your hunt recap threads Paul, looking forward to this one for sure!
From: Carbon Defiant 34
17-Sep-21
It is only September 17 though................(grin)
From: t-roy
17-Sep-21
Here we go again…….with another great adventure! Anxiously following, Paul!
From: Old School
17-Sep-21
Definitely one of the highlights of the year on Bowsite. Thanks for your contributions Paul - over the top good. Now get on with the rest of the story :-)
From: Buckeye
17-Sep-21
I was hoping it was Paul's thread when I opened it. This is your year Paul! cant wait for the rest of the story.
From: BigOk
17-Sep-21
Can't wait to read this one!!!
From: maxracx
17-Sep-21
Good luck Paul, I will catch up when I get back from my own adventure.
From: 12yards
17-Sep-21
Good luck! Hoping you scratch this one off the list this year!
From: Norseman
17-Sep-21
Go get em Paul! You are an inspiration and one tough dude!
From: Charlie Rehor
17-Sep-21
Ole guys rock. I don’t know but a few still going at your age but sure do fear being left on the porch in a rocker. Good luck.
From: Dale06
17-Sep-21
You are an inspiration, doing what you are doing at that age. I’m 10 years behind you and hope I can do that when I’m 80.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
thick stuff off of the meadows but the elk love it for food, water and shelter. One just has to figure out their patterns which I have done for the past 7 yrs. in this area
thick stuff off of the meadows but the elk love it for food, water and shelter. One just has to figure out their patterns which I have done for the past 7 yrs. in this area
So I planned on camping for at least two weeks in my high mt tent camp as I had hauled up enough food, etc.. A comfortable camp, in a shaded area, small meadow off the trail, protected by age old pine trees, from snow, wind and rain, trees that have never seen a saw. If one was going to hear a tree fall in the forest of old age, this was the place. (I have heard a few over the years).
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
With the lack of water in the nearby stream it did not surprise me that the small wet meadow/wallow where I had a tree stand set would be dry also. It was very dry but since I had kill a bull there two years ago, I would give it a chance as maybe a elk or two would wander through. I sat there for four day in the AM and PM with out seeing or hearing an elk and the trail camera confirmed no elk were passing by. They needed water!
From: Deercy
17-Sep-21
This is good stuff for sure.
From: Treeline
17-Sep-21
Certainly a dry year in the mountains! Betcha Paul has a backup ;-)
From: BOWNBIRDHNTR
17-Sep-21
Glad I opened this one, will definitely follow it to the end! Good Luck Paul!!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Yep, had a backup plan for sure. A half mile away was another seep back in the dark timber and more important , there was water! Pictured. I had killed my bull there last year on Sept 17 with the compound bow. This time I sat there 5 evenings and never saw or heard an elk sound although there was evidence that a few elk had been there, but at what time, morn, afternoon, but not evenings, at least when I was there? I set up a trail camera there on Sept 9th, and after not seeing many elk the first 9 days, I would drive home for a week as the high temperatures were to be 10 degrees cooler and the elk rut should be kicking in around the 17th of Sept and for the next two weeks or so. So after nine days in camp without seeing much action, I gathered up a few items, left the camp there, and headed home for a week to return on Sept 14th., and hoped for more action, sight and sound of rutting bulls.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
The following week went slowly but the apple trees in the yard were full of apples so I made a few gallons of skin on apple sauce. Did some yard chores etc. and then made plans to return for the final two weeks of the season. I would needed 10more days of meals, long underwear, a warmer jacket, and a different pair of boots--warmer and drier. All in all another 25 pounds to hike up to camp. I wanted a comfortable camp if I was going to spent the next two weeks there, and I was sure there would be a late September snow storm that I had to be prepared for.
So back up the mountain with a lighter pack, and for the next two weeks. I had the compound bow in the truck but it was not part of the plan this elk season unless I got desperate.
From: deerhunter72
17-Sep-21
Tuned in! Paul never disappoints.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
It took the normal three hours to hike up, but camp was waiting when I got there at noon, so now I had to wait until 5 pm to continue my elk adventure. I washed up, stored the items I had hauled up, shot my Great Plains bow, took a nap, had my evening meal at 4 pm,, dressed in hunting gear and headed out to set a big meadow and just watch and wait for the winds to drop and to allow the cool air to drain down hill to my advantage and then to advance to the back up wallow a few hundred yards away. I was excited to be back and with the stick in hand. It just felt good and normal. My thoughts raced back 60 years to the UP of Michigan and my first deer with a recurve bow. Hard to believe I was still doing this stuff but one only goes around once in life, so take advantage of all of your experiences, hopes, and items on your bucket list as this life you are now living is not a dress rehearsal for your next life.
From: longbeard
17-Sep-21
Good luck Paul. Living vicariously through your adventures. Can’t wait to see/read the outcome!!!
From: Treeline
17-Sep-21
Never! But I would continue to encourage you to get it done with the single string!
From: RonS
17-Sep-21
Great stuff Paul. I'm looking forward to the rest of the story.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Six PM and wind was slacking and I move across the big meadow and advanced up the trail to the wallow and my hide just 20 yards away from the water. On my way in, I continued to check the wind and the down hill cooler currents. I needed to get there when the down hill cooler current was in my favor. I arrived at the hide at 6:30 pm, allowing me one hour and 15 minutes to hunt before last legal shooting time. I check the trail camera and discovered that a bull and a cow with two calves, had visited the wallow the day after I set up up on Sept 9 but had not returned that I could tell. The time of their visit was mid afternoon. Well at least, there was a potential that I might see or at least hear an elk this evening but I only had less that an hour to make this happen. The sun was setting over the hill, a cool breeze was in my favor, I knelt behind a large pine tree trunk, my bow leaning against the tree ready to go. The time was now 7:15 PM
I SEE MOVMENT FROM MY RIGHT COMING FROM THE DARK SHADOWS 40 YARDS AWAY, AND ADVANDING TOWARDS THE WALLOW. A BEAUTIFUL 5X5 BULL STEPS OUT, HIS TAN COAT SHINING IN THE SETTING SUN, HIS ANTLERS HELD HIGH., NOSE SEARCHING FOR INTRUDERS. INSTEAD OF COMING RIGHT TO THE WALLOW HE DISAPPEARS BEHIND A THICKET OF DARK TIMBER AND IS MOVING AWAY AND AROUND. YES, JUST DISAPPEARED. WHERE DID HE GO? I AM SEARCHING, LOOKING HERE AND THERE. HOW HE GOT THERE 5 minutes later I DO NOT KNOW BUT, THERE HE IS, ONLY 20 YARDS AWAY AND STANDING AT THE WET WALLOW FACING ME. HE STRETCHES HIS NECK, RAISES HIS HEAD AND SENDS OUT A SHARP BUGLE, RIGHT IN MY FACE. THE HAIR ON THE BACK OF THE MY NECK STANDS UP. I GRIP BY BOW, (NOT TOO TIGHT), THE THREE FINGER TAB IS UNDER THE ARROW NOCK, AS I APPLIED SOME PRESSURE TO THE STRING. HE IS NOW FACING ME, HEAD DOWN AND DRINKING. I SHIFT OVER A FEW INCHES TO GET A BETTER ANGLE. HE TURNS TO LEAVE AND IS NOW SLIGHTLY QUARTING AWAY. THE GREAT PLAINS RECURVE BOW IS UP AS PRACTICED. PICK A SPOT. FULL DRAW. SMOOTH RELEASE. ARROW ON ITS WAY!
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
I don’t care if you missed. This is what all the work was for. That :10 of being completely oblivious to the rest of the world. This is already a successful hunt Paul.
From: t-roy
17-Sep-21
Nail biter!! C’mon Paul! Type faster!
From: Buckeye
17-Sep-21
ohh boy!
From: ND String Puller
17-Sep-21
It’s no time for a break Paul ! I’m wearing out my refresh button !
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
A second later, I see my arrow, up to the fletching, sticking out the side of the elk as he leaped forward and sprinting for the dark timber 30 yards away. It looks a little far back but the angle looked good traveling forward. I hear a breaking of branches and then a few seconds later a louder breaking of brush/sticks, tree limbs. Maybe this bull is just leaving the area quickly.
Because of the fading light, I move over to where he had entered the dark forest and found a few drops of blood. As I was standing there, I hear five loud moans that sound like a moo cow moaning. Wait, there are no domestics cows in the area. Maybe?????? I move forwards towards the sounds a 100 yards away, still gripping my recurve bow and at ready.
From: ND String Puller
17-Sep-21
YES!
From: Buckeye
17-Sep-21
Contact! thats what I'm talkin about!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
As I found him. Cold stone dead!
As I found him. Cold stone dead!
in one side and
in one side and
and out the other. 165 ft per second from a 55# recurve bow the arrow struck the bull in less than a second and surely did the job taking out a lung or two.
and out the other. 165 ft per second from a 55# recurve bow the arrow struck the bull in less than a second and surely did the job taking out a lung or two.
Bucket list item eliminated.
Bucket list item eliminated.
I searched ahead and see a tan shape and then antlers through the thick forest. Bull elk down and he only traveled 150 yards before succumbing to the sharp VPA 175 gr BH.
From: sitO
17-Sep-21
You are a great story teller Paul, congrats and now go write a book for all of us buddy!
From: JohnMC
17-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!
From: greg simon
17-Sep-21
Woo Hoo!!! Way to go Paul!!!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
ok, getting dark and time to get to WORK. I have every thing I need to process and bag this elk and I am a half mile back to camp.
ok, getting dark and time to get to WORK. I have every thing I need to process and bag this elk and I am a half mile back to camp.
decided to do a gutless method without exposing the guts.
decided to do a gutless method without exposing the guts.
What the field processed elk looked like the following morning. Retrieved the elk's head to later remove the antlers. I completed the job, hung the bagged meat in the trees and returned to camp by 1 am, yea, One AM, a very tired boy indeed.
What the field processed elk looked like the following morning. Retrieved the elk's head to later remove the antlers. I completed the job, hung the bagged meat in the trees and returned to camp by 1 am, yea, One AM, a very tired boy indeed.
From: Blue Buck
17-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!! You are an inspiration!
From: Treeline
17-Sep-21
Whoo Hoooo!
Pretty sure I heard that yell from Paul all the way over here!
Congratulations! You did it, and in STYLE! Great bull! Excellent recap!
From: Buckeye
17-Sep-21
I couldn't be more happy for a fellow hunter Paul! really glad you got to cross this off the list. I will be giving traditional tackle a go this year for the first time. My goal is any deer. When I grow up , I wanna be like you Paul!
From: Southern draw
17-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
outfitter getting ready
outfitter getting ready
back up the mt an hour later.
back up the mt an hour later.
loading up processed elk, and then to camp to pack those items down also.
loading up processed elk, and then to camp to pack those items down also.
and then 4 hours later, back down to the truck, a cold beer, ice. Should be home by midnight.
and then 4 hours later, back down to the truck, a cold beer, ice. Should be home by midnight.
The next morning at 8 am, the squirrels woke me up with their chattering. Time to get up, break camp, pack everything in the duffle bag and then the large back pack. Hike down the mountain with my day pack and bow to the truck and then to the outfitter to horse/pack animals , to retrieve the meat and then my camp and then back down to the truck. Should make an interesting day but a very happy day.
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
Wow! Congrats on a well executed plan. You worked hard and deserve your well earned traditional gear bull. What a pretty bull also.
From: huntinelk
17-Sep-21
Congratulations Paul, you are an inspiration for sure
From: Treeline
17-Sep-21
Have always had faith in you to get it done with the recurve!
Never a doubt in my mind, just had to get rid of those in yours;-)
So happy for you!
Well done all the way around!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Yea, all of the work that goes into elk hunting can be worthwhile if one keep all things into perspective. I love the physical challenge and the mental challenge of solo hunting. This bucket list bull was in great shape and yielded a lot of wild game meat and without extracting out the ribs. Tricia and I both like the ribs very much but I told her there was no room in the cooler. She said, you needed to get two coolers. I said, Then I needed to buy a bigger truck!
From: Drnaln
17-Sep-21
Always the best read on Bowsite....Congratulations!
From: Glunt@work
17-Sep-21
Awesome! Way to go!
From: Old School
17-Sep-21
Thanks for the full recap Paul. Excellent as usual. Congrats on a great hunt and crossing an item off the bucket list of hunts.
From: Carbon Defiant 34
17-Sep-21
Congratulations Paul! Like so many have mentioned you are an inspiration!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
So there you have it, a story of the old guy, with a stick in his hand, a sharp arrow, and a very nice dead bull elk on the ground. Let the processing begin here at home. I have a meat grinder, sharp knives, vac packer and two freezers and time on my hands now that elk season for me is over.
I knew you guys would like this story so thanks for the kind words and inspiration.
Until the next time, my best, Paul
From: Finnman
17-Sep-21
Perfect!
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
Paul you got great penetration. What was the arrow weight
From: BK
17-Sep-21
Outstanding!!!!!!!
From: Helgermite
17-Sep-21
Once again excellent story and trophy. Congratulations!
From: Scott in Camo
17-Sep-21
Thanks for the story. Congrats.
From: Supernaut
17-Sep-21
Paul, You ARE The Man!
Outstanding recap and photos. Congratulations on killing a great bull with your recurve and checking it off your bucket list.
All my best, Jim
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Jay, 575 grains total. The Gold Tip traditional 600 spine shafts are 9.9 grs per inch. THe 175 gr ventless VPA BHs are sharp and can be easy to re-sharpen and they fly well. The BH may have traveled between the rib bones but in any case , did the job. I was happy (and lucky) with the shot placement as the elk was turning and retreating.
From: ND String Puller
17-Sep-21
The “Bionic Bowhunter” strikes again! Your hunt recaps are the best ! Thanks for taking us along!
From: GhostBird
17-Sep-21
Congratulations Paul... well one.
From: Twinetickler
17-Sep-21
Awesome Paul! Such a fun read. Get's me pumped! My Dad and I are leaving Monday to go chase bugles. Congrats to you!
From: Bowfreak
17-Sep-21
Absolutely epic! Congrats Paul!!!
From: deerhunter72
17-Sep-21
Truly an inspiration! The best story teller on BS. Congratulations!
From: Djl
17-Sep-21
Awesome job and congrats to you.
From: brettpsu
17-Sep-21
Congrats Paul! Way to stick with it.
From: Bigfoot
17-Sep-21
"At the age of 81, I was just as excited to be bow hunting as I was on the day I killed my first deer in 1962"
I passed this along to my 79 year old Father, who has a Moose draw this fall. He is heading out in a little over a week. He's just as excited for the experience as he was when he started hunting. I have friends who no longer have the drive for hunting and the hard work and dedication it takes to get the best of the experience. I don't understand that. My passion is as great as ever, if not more, as is my Father's. Great to read of someone who shows the love of wild places and wild animals. Thanks Paul, it was really great to tag along on the adventure!
From: yooper89
17-Sep-21
Freaking amazing. Congratulations Paul! I want to be like you when I grow up
From: Brun
17-Sep-21
Congrats on a great adventure with a fantastic ending. Thanks for posting.
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
That arrow is right in the sweet spot 9.9 GPP Another fan question? What was the bow in the Michigan UP picture
From: JRABQ
17-Sep-21
Great story, congrats on deleting one more item on your bucket list!
From: MA-PAdeerslayer
17-Sep-21
Awesome Paul! Congratulations!!!!
From: JRABQ
17-Sep-21
Great story, congrats on deleting one more item on your bucket list!
From: RonS
17-Sep-21
Congrats on a great season Paul!
From: T Mac
17-Sep-21
Well done as always Paul! Congratulations!
From: Joey Ward
17-Sep-21
Awesome story and pictures, Paul.
Congrats.
Always a treat to read your posts.
From: sticksender
17-Sep-21
Out-freakin-standing! Great hunt....thanks Paul, for sharing.
From: T Mac
17-Sep-21
Well done as always Paul! Congratulations!
From: EmbryOklahoma
17-Sep-21
Great job, Paul! You’re definitely an inspiration!
From: GLP
17-Sep-21
Fantastic story and hunt as always Paul!!
From: WYOelker
17-Sep-21
Always awesome. I share your story with my family every year. They all love it, wife daughter and son.
From: Shrewski
17-Sep-21
Paul, your age may be old but your spirit is young and strong. Your persistence, determination, and attitude are an inspiration and have been to millions of bowhunters that have passed thru the Bowsite all these years. Good things happen to good people and you deserve it! Great bull!
From: SdDiamondArcher
17-Sep-21
81 and you did this!?! You’re the man. This gives me a lot of motivation going forward. I started with trad equipment 4 years ago. This is my 3rd elk season and I’ve been really questioning why I do it instead of just using my compound. This story is the exact reason I do it. I leave on Sunday for a week. When times get tough and I’m frustrated, I’ll for sure remember your story and keep pressing on!
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Darren, give your dad a strong hand shake and then a big hung for me. Tell him the best is yet to come. Good luck on the moose hunt.
Jay, the bow in the 1962 Michigan deer pic is a Ben Pearson, 45 #. Notice the "safe" way I carry the arrows attached to the bow. What did we know except from Fred Bear, back in that day?
From: Hancock West
17-Sep-21
Inspiring... God willing i'll be 80+ hunting like that.
From: cnelk
17-Sep-21
Awesome Paul! I’m sure we’ll hear this story a time or two more!! Lol
From: Firsty
17-Sep-21
That is awesome! I cant imagine doing that at 81!
From: Bowbender
17-Sep-21
Outstanding!! Thanks for taking us along, Paul!!
From: Altitude Sickness
17-Sep-21
I can barley do it at 61 :^))))>
From: stringgunner
17-Sep-21
Congrats. An incredible accomplishment.
From: Helgermite
17-Sep-21
" As I was standing there, I hear five loud moans that sound like a moo cow moaning. Wait, there are no domestics cows in the area. Maybe?????? I move forwards towards the sounds a 100 yards away, still gripping my recurve bow and at ready."
Paul, I'm curious if you were able to follow much blood on your way to the sound or if you traced the blood trail the next day. I'm always interested in learning as much as possible about blood trails, performance of the broadhead and effectiveness of the hit location.
From: Z Barebow
17-Sep-21
When I grow up, I want to be just like Paul.
Paul your are an inspiration and one of the most respected members of Bowsite. Congratulations and enjoy the fruits of your success.
From: JL
17-Sep-21
Congrats and well done sir!! 81 years young and got it done with a one-stringer....how cool is that!!!! I'm just curious how you're gonna top that feat??
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
John, good questions. I did not follow the blood trail after I heard the death moaning which lead me right to the bull. The blood I did see was dark and not spraying out and I did not see any bubbles in the blood at first glance thus it was starting to get dark. If the bull had died 400 yards away and did not give out any death moans, this story may have not happened but then their might have been a good blood trail later as the elk ran away causing the wound to be more pronounced. It might also have been a liver hit as the BH traveled through the elk. I hit was a little high and the blood might have been bleeding internally which happened last year causing a very hard blood trail to follow, a drop here a drop there. I liked the performance of the 3 bld BH and I also use the 125 gr VPA with my compound bow. Elk are tough animals and having a good blood trail is a blessing. So is having them go down within sight.
From: Blood
17-Sep-21
Congrats Paul! You are THE MAN!
From: Jordan
17-Sep-21
Absolutely beautiful and infinitely inspiring Paul! WTG! I will be sure to let Andy know you scored....again! :)
From: GLP
17-Sep-21
Fantastic story and hunt as always Paul!!
From: Dollar
17-Sep-21
Congratulations Great story again
From: t-roy
17-Sep-21
You da man, Paul!! A huge congrats on achieving your goal for this fall!
Any new goals on your bucket list in the near future?
From: BowHiker
17-Sep-21
Way to go!!! I can only dream to still be chasing these critters in the golden years....let alone being a solo killer with the struggle stick.... Congrats!
From: Tracker
17-Sep-21
Congrats on a nice bull. I love to come out west and do hunts but they always seem so rushed. You re fortunate to be able to just spend the time in the woods and be patient. What are you using for your pad by the way.
From: Paul@thefort
17-Sep-21
Troy, other than the bucket list of winning the Mega Lottery and numbers two is, taking Tricia on an Around the World trip, I still believe an archery hunt for a Dall Ram would be cool.
I have had a great year bow hunting, with a January Arizona Coues buck, three tom turkeys in Nebraska this spring, a nice Pronghorn buck here in Colorado on August 15th, and now this bull elk. The only other trip this year will be Nebraska for whitetail deer in November.
I will keep looking for that winning lottery ticket in the mail.
From: Heat
17-Sep-21
Simply the Best stuff on Bowsite, over and over. Well done, as always Paul!
From: badbull
17-Sep-21
Paul, as always, you are truly the inspiration that keeps me going. You are one tough customer that the youngsters can't really appreciate what you do at your age. Congratulations to one heck of a man! Bob
From: BigOk
17-Sep-21
Congrats!!! A bowsite legendary and quite the story teller.
From: Grey Ghost
17-Sep-21
I don't know what to say other than it would truly be an honor to share a campfire and a few elk steaks with you.
Congrats, and thanks for your inspiration.
Matt
From: CJE
17-Sep-21
Well done sir, heck of a story right there, congrats!!!
From: bigeasygator
17-Sep-21
Hard to believe I was still doing this stuff but one only goes around once in life, so take advantage of all of your experiences, hopes, and items on your bucket list as this life you are now living is not a dress rehearsal for your next life.
Amen.
Congrats, Paul! Another great story and another tremendous accomplishment.
From: Dyjack
17-Sep-21
Awesome, Paul! Truly inspiring.
From: fastflight
17-Sep-21
Congrats Paul. You continue to amaze and entertain me yearly. You are the man!!!!
From: Rickm
17-Sep-21
Atta a boy Paul. Inspiring for sure. Love those VPA's
Congrats.
From: Marty
17-Sep-21
Well done Paul, as usual!!
From: pav
18-Sep-21
Outstanding accomplishment Paul! Congrats!!!
You never cease to amaze! A true inspiration for all bowhunters...especially us aging solo bowhunters! Thanks again for sharing your adventures!
From: WV Mountaineer
18-Sep-21
I love it! Congrats brother.
From: Altitude Sickness
18-Sep-21
I am still trying to kill an elk with a stickbow.
Killed with compound, ML and Rifle. Still no stickbow kill. But I’m only 61. So following the role model Paul.
I’ve got 20 years left to get it done.
From: RickH
18-Sep-21
Congratulations Paul, great recap of your hunt.
From: Glunker
18-Sep-21
I am in awe. I am a fan.
From: Scrappy
18-Sep-21
Paul you truly are an inspiration, congrats Sir.
From: rooster
18-Sep-21
Heck yeah! Congratulations Paul on an awesome hunt. Thanks as always for sharing your story. What an inspiration you are to all of us "younger" guys (66).
From: Grunter
18-Sep-21
Pretty dang impressive Paul! Every year you put on a show and get it done. Congrats on a dandy bull! Guys like you are rare. Well done sir.
From: JRABQ
18-Sep-21
Great story, congrats on deleting one more item on your bucket list!
From: Ermine
18-Sep-21
Wow your the man!!
From: Aluminum Rain
19-Sep-21
Amazing! Congrats.
From: BigSkyHntr
19-Sep-21
Great story Paul! Thanks for sharing
From: hybridbowman
19-Sep-21
WoW ! I am so impressed ! Super Hero are not only in Marvel’s movies
From: Beav
20-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!!! Always a great story teller but I think this was my favorite!!
From: 12yards
20-Sep-21
Congrats Paul! What an awesome kill!
From: Chief 419
20-Sep-21
Congratulations Paul! You’re a machine. Great bull , pictures & story telling as usual.
From: Smtn10PT
20-Sep-21
awesome hunt and excellent recap, congrats to you
From: Brotsky
20-Sep-21
Way to go Paul! You are always an inspiration to this flatlander! If I could be hunting elk at 81 I will have lived an amazing life! Congratulations and thank you as always for the fantastic story telling!
From: fisherick
20-Sep-21
Congrats Paul, I always had faith in you to get the job done. I am so glad you hung in there with your recurve and not bail out to use the compound bow when the going gets slow. Us recurve guys must always trust our equipment and have patience. I always look forward to your stories and adventures. Thank you for a awesome story.
From: Ambush
20-Sep-21
Just when I think I can't be more amazed at your skill, dedication and passion for the hunt, you just take it up another notch!!
If I'm ever within a thousand miles of Colorado, I'll drive that thousand miles just to shake your hand. Truly a Legend.
From: Paul@thefort
21-Sep-21
Hey Richard, While I have always enjoyed all of my bow hunts with compound and recurve bow, the successful ones with the recurve bow stand out the most. Growing up with a recurve bow, long before the compound bow was developed, gives me a special attachment to the stick and I am glad I can still use one with success. As you know, there is something about having a Trad bow in your hand, that just seems natural. my best, Paul
From: Vonfoust
21-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!! Look forward to your elk thread every year. Don't know how it took me this long to find it this year.
From: bohuntr
21-Sep-21
That is absolutely awesome Paul! You are amazing. So glad to see you still out there punching tags consistently. Looking forward to following along on your annual Nebraska whitetail hunt.
From: Rut Nut
21-Sep-21
WOW! You out-did yourself again, Paul!(which is a very TALL ORDER ;-)
CONGRATS to a BOWSITE LEGEND! Well done sir!
From: Jaquomo
21-Sep-21
Excellent, Paul! Congratulations!
From: LUNG$HOT
21-Sep-21
I wanna be like Paul when I grow up! ;-)
Congrats Sir on a fine bull!
From: orionsbrother
21-Sep-21
Always enjoy your threads Paul. This is another fantastic one. I couldn’t be happier for you.
From: TJS
21-Sep-21
Thanks for sharing your adventure. Truly inspiring.
From: Aspen Ghost
21-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!
From: kodiak&crunchy
21-Sep-21
I've always appreciated your posts, but I especially enjoyed this story. Congratulations on taking that beautiful bull.
From: Grasshopper
21-Sep-21
Great bull, Great BOWHUNTER
From: Paul@thefort
22-Sep-21
bull at wallow prior to shot
bull at wallow prior to shot
my hide is 20 yards across the wallow behind those pine tree trunks to the left side of the picture.
my hide is 20 yards across the wallow behind those pine tree trunks to the left side of the picture.
From: INbowdude
22-Sep-21
Great story Paul. Thanks for taking us along and congratulations.
From: Grunt-N-Gobble
22-Sep-21
I always enjoy reading about your adventures Paul. Thanks again & congratulations!
From: Aspen Ghost
22-Sep-21
If those temps are accurate that sure makes for some sweaty elk hunting weather.
From: Jordan
22-Sep-21
Dammit Paul, you shot my birthday bull!!! ;)
From: Paul@thefort
22-Sep-21
Well Jordan, Happy Birthday and I wish you the best. Paul
From: StickFlicker
23-Sep-21
Great job Paul. Thanks for sharing.
From: SteveB
23-Sep-21
Nice Paul! Congratulations!!
From: Paul@thefort
23-Sep-21
Fun hunt and I appreciate the nice notes. Paul
From: Kurt
23-Sep-21
Congrats Paul! Nice bull and great photos and story! Kurt
From: nogutsnostory
23-Sep-21
Very nice congratulations!!
From: Paul@thefort
26-Sep-21
Hard to believe that the Colorado archery elk season is almost over. The 11 months in between the season just seem to drag on, but the 29 day season just flies by. Four more days to get it done. Actually I have killed two elk during the last few days of the season and I guess the good part of that is that I got to hunt the WHOLE season and just not a few days if successful early. So the question I have is, how many archery elk hunters have killed their elk during the last few days of the elk season?
From: Charlie Rehor
26-Sep-21
Second to last day in Arizona 2011. Everyone else had given up and there was no one around.
From: Timbrhuntr
26-Sep-21
Congrats ! Your hunt recaps almost make it seem not too bad to be sitting out another year out west ! Thanks !!
From: Paul@thefort
26-Sep-21
Charlie, there has been times during the archery elk season that I took a few days off here and there, and if unsuccessful at the end of that season, I would think back and wished I had continued to hunt and not taken days off., as one of those days-- I might have been successful. "never give up" just might be the answer to being more successful, as you experienced.
From: Jaquomo
26-Sep-21
Tom had always called me "Last Minute Louie" because I seem to have a knack for dragging every hunt out to the bitter end. Elk, caribou, muleys, whitetail, doesn't matter. My last bull came with two days left in the season after I'd basically given up and started hitting spots close to home. Still four days in this season. I must suck as a hunter.
From: APauls
26-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!!! You still get better every year! Imagine what you’ll be like when you hit your prime!
From: Paul@thefort
26-Sep-21
Thanks Adam. After hiking back up that morning, killing the bull, and back to camp at midnight, then hiking down to the packer the next am, riding up and retrieving the meat and camp, back down by late after noon, and then driving home, the 5 hours, my PRIME was just about spent. Can't wait until next season. my best, Paul
From: Thornton
26-Sep-21
Excellent work! Makes me want to dig out the recurve.
From: Altitude Sickness
27-Sep-21
Pail, So far I’ve tried One week last year and one this year using a long bow for elk. Last year was brutal. Very few elk in the area. This year was the opposite. I had multiple opportunities but no luck. I’ll keep trying Paul.
From: Kevin Dill
27-Sep-21
When I grow up.... ;-)
As usual I'm late to find and read this, but I have an excuse. Great hunt Paul. The bucket weighs a bit less now, eh? You're always an inspiration to me and many others here. The body ages but the spirit driving it remains strong. I really like that about you. The mountains will make you old and young at once. KD
From: Paul@thefort
27-Sep-21
Kevin, Can't wait to hear your excuse. Bring it on. Thank you for comments. Just trying to keep the fire burning in myself and others. Keep strong, keep healthy, and keep the passion. Paul
From: elkmtngear
27-Sep-21
Paul, just got back from OTC CO, saw your bull on the meatpole!
You are my hero !!
From: midwest
27-Sep-21
Finally got around to reading this. I was waiting for a morning when I could just sit down and read the whole thing.
I was NOT disappointed! You're such a great story teller, Paul. I really enjoyed it and a HUGE congratulations on killing a fantastic bull with the stick!
From: Paul@thefort
27-Sep-21
Jeffery, you have done well over the year and I hope Colorado did not disappoint.
Nick, you are right in the middle of some great WT hunting. Go get one.
Yep, fun hunt for sure.
From: lewis
27-Sep-21
Paul as I hope you know I have followed your posts for many moons. I’m a little late to the party on this one as we were traveling but for sure this journey did not disappoint.All I can say job well done and keep on keeping on,you are on my Mt Rushmore of bow hunting sincerely hope to meet you some day so if y’all get in the Volunteer state just come on we’ll leave the light on.Good luck Lewis
From: Paul@thefort
27-Sep-21
Lewis. Motel 6? I love it. You have a deal. Paul
From: lewis
27-Sep-21
Kinda but our backyard of 300 plus acres butting up to a 80,000 acre wma that is if you want to roam stay safe and good luck Lewis
From: Royboy
27-Sep-21
Congratulations Paul!
From: APauls
27-Sep-21
Congrats Paul!!! You still get better every year! Imagine what you’ll be like when you hit your prime!
From: Goelk
28-Sep-21
Congrats Paul I'll carry your pack next year
From: bowhunter24
28-Sep-21
Thanks Paul for making me smile at work...again, you are the MAN!
From: Bowboy
28-Sep-21
Congrats Paul on a great bull and fulfilling one of your bucket list. As always great pictures and story telling!
From: Paul@thefort
03-Oct-21
Rick, Yes but only up hill! :)
John, If one can smile at work, my pleasure that I was the reason.
Craig, Thanks, I am sure I will see you shorty at the next get together.
From: Jeff Holchin
03-Oct-21
Wow Paul, you are amazing in many different ways! Congratulations and best wishes for many more such bowhunting adventures.
From: otcWill
03-Oct-21
This one makes my day. Your hard work and dedication never cease to impress me, Paul. Hat's off to you buddy.
From: Jeff Holchin
03-Oct-21
Wow Paul, you are amazing in many different ways! Congratulations and best wishes for many more such bowhunting adventures.
From: Glidingindian
03-Oct-21
“We are not worthy!” is a quote that fits here. As a young guy (66) who shot his first two elk with a longbow but switched to training wheels after multiple shoulder surgeries I stand in reverence and awe. You lit a fire under me that sent me to my man room to dust off the Black Widow and add one last bucket list item to challenge me. Have two sons who want me to take them every year , thank you for taking away my excuses!
From: RD
03-Oct-21
Great story, maybe it's time to start thinking about Elk again, I've made 29 DIY trips before but at 73 and a flatlander I don't know. Antelope are a lot easier to get out. Congratulations!
From: bpctcb
04-Oct-21
Excellent work Paul!
BP
From: ELKMAN
08-Oct-21
Awesome Paul! Congrats! Perfect
From: Brknarrow1970
08-Oct-21
Congrats sir, your adventures are always a pleasure to read
From: sfiremedic
08-Oct-21
Fantastic story! You're an inspiration to the rest of us.
From: orionsbrother
09-Oct-21
Another one for the Bowsite “Library”
From: txhunter58
10-Oct-21
Good thread
From: Paul@thefort
10-Oct-21
Thanks Rick, I hope you wt season is going well. Paul
From: aaron
11-Oct-21
I'm a little late to the party on this one...great story, Paul! Thank you for sharing!
Lots of great hunting stories on Bowsite this year!
From: Paul@thefort
11-Oct-21
Aaron , yes, some good stories from guys we never knew existed. i am sure you have a deer hunt lined up shortly. Paul
From: DanaC
12-Oct-21
Congrats on a great hunt
From: Paul@thefort
23-Oct-21
Dana, elk are very special and if you have not, I hope you get a chance to hunt them. Paul
From: Aubs8
23-Oct-21
Congratulations Paul! Thank you for sharing!
From: Aubs8
23-Oct-21
Congratulations Paul! Thank you for sharing!
From: tthomas
23-Oct-21
Well some guys are good hunters and great individuals. Clearly Paul is one of those. A great man, wonderful ambassador for hunting. So happy for him. What a great adventure and thanks for bringing us along. Few people could spend a night out on the mountain by themselves, let alone accomplish what Paul has done. Looking forward to hearing about more of his adventures. Way to go Paul. Proud and so very happy for you.
From: standswittaknife
23-Oct-21
Always enjoy a Paul read.. on to Whitetails!!
From: Gene
24-Oct-21
Always look forward to Paul's hunt. He is an inspiration to those of us getting up in the years.
From: Inshart
27-Oct-21
Like others, I'm late to this party as well.
Very nice Paul.
I came home from CO empty handed but took someone who never hunted elk before. He had a couple "close" (as in 10 yards close) encounters and watching his eyes light up and listened to the excitement in his voice as he was telling how he was caught off guard with his bow across his lap, he could hear the elk chewing as it stood and stared him down --- it just doesn't get much better.
From: Paul@thefort
31-Oct-21
Bob, elk just know when you have the bow, "across the lap", as that is when they show up. Better luck next time. Thanks, Paul
From: orionsbrother
25-Jan-22
TTT - enjoying revisiting recaps
From: 'Ike' (Phone)
27-Jan-22
Amazing...
From: Royboy
30-Jan-22
Great story and bull
From: orionsbrother
30-Nov-22
Pulling another good one up.
From: Treeline
30-Nov-22
For sure another Classic! Congratulations again Paul! Well done!
