2007 Archery Report

Again we will let our archers tell you how it was, in their own words what happened on their hunt….

SEPTEMBER 1st-8th

Dan Trimmer Hanover, PA 717-637-8514 guided by Rich Frahm

The week started slow with few bulls bugling. The first day we were close to some cows and heard some distant bulls. Next day only distant bugling again, but late in the day we walked up on a bull. Rich set up and tried to bring him in with some breaking of branches and cow calls, but he lost interest and left with no shot opportunity. Third and fourth days were long hikes, beautiful scenery and no bugles. Rich and I were both frustrated. The fifth day things heated up. First thing in the morning we had a bull respond and ran to beat him to the bottom of the drainage. He got there first and we lost shot opportunity. We continued to hike and bugle and later we heard a bull coming to Rich’s bugle. We set up and as he approached he was completely silent except for a few chuckles. Rich bugled and brought him into the open at 14 yards. I hit him a bit high but was still accurate enough for him to drop after about 50 yards. My first elk, a 6x4. I have hoped to hunt elk for many years and I can’t be happier that I chose Wayne Hill ‘s outfit. Wayne runs a great operation and his attention to detail is impressive. Annette feeds you like a king, and the guides work their tails off to get a bull for their clients. If you are willing to get in shape and accept the physical challenge of hunting the rugged terrain, there is no better outfitter than Wayne Hill. I plan to come back soon.

Tony Maffei N Haledon, NJ 973-427-3779 guided by Taylor Bishop

First day called and walked a few hours up to the top of the mountain. Heard a bull raking a tree, down the mountain. We ran half way down, heard a cow, but no bull. Second day we went three quarters up another mountain, heard a bull bugle and ran the rest of the way to get to him. He shut up and another bull bugled across the mountains, but he shut up quickly. As we made our way back across another bull bugled 100 yards below us. We ran down and got set up. Had to wait about 5 minutes with this small 5x4 chuckling at 8 yards for a shot. He finally presented a good shot and he went down after going 100 yards. If you want to hunt elk with a bow, this is the place to be. You will need to be in great shape or you will not enjoy this hunt. If you are in shape you will have the opportunity to experience hunting elk in the mountains. The lodge is comfortable and clean. You will never go hungry, as the food is great. Wayne and Annette and their staff will make your hunt a memorable one. I will be back in ’09.

Jeff Null, New Oxford, PA 717-476-3158 guided by Chase Willis

Hunting with Wayne Hill Outfitting is a true wilderness experience, with all the comforts of home. Hiking, hunting in the mountains is not for the faint of heart. Success is measured in many ways; however, you owe it to yourself and your guide to be in the best possible shape. It could allow more opportunities to punch a tag. Now to the hunt. The first few days Chase and I traversed very beautiful and rugged country. The bulls would answer, but weren’t real interested in coming in to the call or seriously challenging. On the fifth day it really heated up. In the early morning we had a bugle right out of the vehicle and he headed up the mountain. We chased him to the top and he shut up and wouldn’t talk to us anymore. We came down from the mountain and went to another area. We jumped a bull with some cows and Chase chirped to calm the bull down. After about an hour and a half of multiple set-ups the bull circled around the side of the mountain and went back to gather his cows. Later we came to a wallow and Chase cow called and got an immediate response from a bull coming down the mountain. We scurried up hill to get into position. Chase saw him and said watch this. He ran about 20 yards to the left and cow called. The bull bugled back and headed straight to the call. I was positioned perfectly and as the bull made his final bugle I knocked out his heart and lungs at 13 yards. The bull almost ran over my guide at about 2 yards and only went about 60 yards before crashing down about a 70˚ embankment in some of the thickest, tangled mess you would ever want to recover a 900 lb animal from. The kill was anticlimactic to the friendships and comradery formed with guides and other hunters in camp, and camp staff. See you in ’09.

Leon Dunbar, Castorland NY 315-346-6503 guided by Josh Ahlin

First day had a bull at 25 yards, but he wouldn’t clear the brush for a shot. Second day took a long walk on a hot day; we had a few bulls talking, but no shot opportunities. The third day started off with a very steep climb. Had a couple of bulls bugling in the distance. A little later Josh and I heard a bull chuckle one time. We kept moving around and calling and finally we heard limbs breaking. So we quickly set up and the bull came to within about 8 yards standing broadside. Josh was working his magic and really had the bull worked up! I finally found a small window in the brush to shoot through and put the arrow into both lungs. The bull only went about 80 yards and piled up. The excitement of having a bull elk that close and ripping the bark off a tree is indescribable. Josh is an awesome guide. His abilities are second to none. Thanks again Josh. This was my third time here and as usual everything from the food, lodge, guides, and especially Wayne and Annette were first class!! Wayne, Annette, and guides I have a lot of respect for everything you do and for the professional way in which you do it. I hope to return in ’09.

Sean Pritchard, Mishicot, WI 920-776-1396 guided by James Harvey

This was my first time with Wayne Hill Outfitting and my first ever elk hunt. Being new to all of this I was pretty excited, with high hopes and I was not disappointed. I was teamed up with James who being straight our of Wayne’s guide school, this was to be his first elk hunt as well. Being the first week of the archery season and the rut just starting, the bugling was sporadic the first few days, but we did have bugling everyday. One day while trying to go after a distant bugle, we snuck up on a cow; unfortunately the bull stopped bugling prior to us locating him. The second day we also heard a couple distant bugles, but again they would only bugle once or twice then turn off. The third day we thought we were going to close the deal when we got on a bull early, that was close and very vocal. James threw his full repertoire at him, but the bull would not come out of the thick stuff. We were hesitant to go in after him, which left us at a stalemate that the bull ended by wandering off without us even seeing him. The fourth day was our day. After a fast hike up to the tope of the ridge, James’s first couple of bugles were answered by a bull that sounded close. We were determined to close on him and with me leading, we would call, then move, and repeat. The bull was not very responsive and after about a half hour we thought we lost him. We were going to head back to our original course, but prior to leaving, James gave one more try. To our surprise the bull answered, so off we went again. About 200 yards later James’s bugle brought a reply that seemed really close. We crossed a creek and set up. James’s bugle brought no response and we were about to move again when we heard a branch snap. James was the first to see the bull making his way down the hill silently. The 6x6 was calmly making his way in our direction, a lot like a packhorse walking down a trail. We were set up in relatively open terrain for this country and as he came into an opening at roughly 30 yards I let an arrow fly. Since he was walking I hit him too far back, just behind the ribs. The bull ran forward about 10 yards, stopping for James’s cow call. I got ready with another arrow and as the bull stepped out from behind a clump of trees, I was able to sink an arrow right into his chest. The bull turned and ran uphill for about 20 yards before stopping and collapsing. Some serious celebrating quickly followed this. James put his all into getting me this bull and I was lucky to be teamed up with him. Wayne and Annette run a very tight ship. They have quality guides that work hard to get you a bull and take great enjoyment out of seeing you succeed. You truly owe it to yourself to be in the best possible shape to do this hunt. The guides want you to cover some serious miles in a morning, trying to locate bulls that are willing to play. I lost 30 lbs to go on this hunt and I am very glad I did. The last thing I wanted to do was to keep the guide from getting me on a bull. This is thick steep terrain and you are moving all the time at a speed just short of a jog. Work out and good luck!

Todd Perrine, Snow Shoe PA 814-353-4306 guided by Wayne Hill

\This is my ninth hunt with Wayne and Annette. Things started a little slow the first days heard a few bugles and did not get close. We did see some picnickers. Day three heard a bull bugle at a distance. Wayne wanted to go look at him. It took 2 hours to get to the bull. Wayne called him in to within 15 yards He was a nice 5x5, but I passed. Days 4 and 5 we had bulls bugle but did not get close. The 6th day Wayne called in a 4x6 with pretty good beams, but I passed on him at 20 yards. Seventh day we played with another bull but could not get him to play. Day 8 we chased a bull around the mountain and was set up many times. It was in the thick stuff and never did get to see his head. Even though I never released an arrow, this was an excellent hunt as usual. Annette (CEO of Wayne Hill Outfitting) did an awesome job feeding us with her excellent home cooked meals. If you want a fair chase archery hunt on public land with a first class operation, this is the only place to go. If you are in shape, you will have a chance for a shot at an elk. Thanks Wayne and Annette.

Kevin Brown, Flushing MI 810-487-1623 k.d.j.brown@sbcglobal.net guided by Chuck Hall

Second hunt with Wayne and it was incredible! Over the course of eight days I saw eight different bulls, six of them legal. We set up numerous times and I came to full draw on four separate occasions. On day seven we saw four different bulls, set up four times and I shot a nice 5x5. Unfortunately the arrow went a little high and missed the vitals. Despite an incredible tracking job by Chuck, we did not recover the bull. As always the accommodations were first rate. Annette is a fabulous cook! It’s hard to imagine a better archery elk hunt! Be in shape, the mountains are steep and brushy. The terrain is unforgiving.

Scott Denofa, Bradenton FL, 941-232-5904 guided by Jesse Gagner

Great start the first day. We hiked up into an area with a great deal of sign. Within a short period of time we had an encounter with a cow walking within 8 yards of us, then not long after we spotted a spike, which also came to within 12 yards. This was my first encounter with elk and I was impressed. At the end of the first day I understand why they tell you to be in good shape when you come. The second and third day were quiet, my guide Jesse was working hard to find an animal for us. We did push some animals out, but could not get any to answer back. The fourth day Jesse and I went with Dan and guide Rich to work the two sides of this valley. We finally were hearing some bulls. We walked about eight or nine miles and came out to find that Dan had killed a nice bull. Next day we decided to hunt the same area, but climb the mountain in the dark. We reached an area where we heard some noise close to us up the trail. Since it was still dark we held our spot till I could see better. Jesse let out one cow call and it turned out to be a bull we heard about 50 yards from us. Jesse dropped back and called to pull the bull down. Thirty minutes later after tearing up trees and stomping, the bull finally came down broad side at 14 yards. I let an arrow fly hitting the bull a little high. He ran off, we could hear him stop and cough so we thought he was going down. The arrow did not pass through so we had no blood trail. Eight hours of looking and no bull. The final days we spent on the same hill with good response from other bulls, but no connections. I can’t say enough about the whole outfit at Wayne’s place. Awesome hunt, great guides, wonderful food. We booked again before the week was even over.

Tom Arnowitz Canton, PA 570-673-3809 guided by Eric Santos

If you are looking for a great fair chase elk hunt, come hunt with Wayne, This was my fifth hunt with Wayne Hill’s outfit. I’m 60 years old and managed to survive the mountains and love every minute of it. We got into elk all but 2 of the eight days. Came real close to taking a shot twice. It seems impossible, climbing, crawling and falling in the mountains 8 hours a day and I managed to gain at least 5 lbs from Annette’s great meals. Shared the beautiful lodge with12 guys, most new to elk hunting. All but two are looking forward to returning. Elk are the hardest animal in the mountains to harvest. Of the 12 guys, not all in the best of shape, we killed 5, passed on 2, and unfortunately wounded 2. That means we could have taken home nine animals. Where else could that happen? Good guides, good elk population, and Wayne making sure everything goes well. Wayne is an honest person that sincerely wants you to have a great hunt.

SEPTEMBER 10th-17th

Paul Fedor, Fleetville, PA 570-945-7677 guided by Wayne Hill

Fourth hunt with Wayne. Bulls were quiet for most of the week. On the sixth day we got a bull fired up above us, I set up twice, but he kept going away from us. We were moving again and got busted by second bull coming in silent at 50 yards. He was a 5x5. The seventh day we got a bull to answer us, this one was ready. He came a long way fast. I got set up and I could hear him walking and I could smell him. At the last minute the wind swirled and the next time he bugled he was going away from us. Wayne and his people are very good at what they do. If you are looking for a good hunt chasing bulls with the bow, this is it.

Frank Fedor, East Stroudsburg, PA 570-223-7831 guided by Jesse Gagner

This was my second hunt with Wayne, first time archery. The first day of the hunt we had a bull 40 yards, could not see him, then the wind swirled and he was gone. Next two days were quiet. The fourth day saw nice 6x6 at 60 yards. Fifth day saw big 6x6 at 50 yards running. The seventh day had a 5x5 come quiet at 50 yards, did not have a good shot. If you are looking for a 100% fair chase hunt, this is it. Will be back. Wayne Hill Outfitting is 1st class!

Dave Verdetto Old Forge, PA 570-457-0258 guided by Wayne Hill and Eric Santos

Second hunt with Wayne Hill Outfitting. For the first 5 days the bulls were very quiet. On the sixth day we jumped a bull and got within 20 yards, but no shot. The seventh day heard 5 different bulls and go one close, but the wind changed and we got busted. Great food, great people and I hope to be back soon.

John Plank, Orbisonia PA 814-447-5471 guided by Eric Santos

This was my third hunt with Wayne and Annette. First day not much going on where we were didn’t hear a bull anywhere. Second day we heard 2 bulls, but neither one wanted to play. The third day we heard five bulls. First one we set up on within 75 yards he had cows with him and better things on his mind than us. The second bull we set up on at 8:20 am and he was hot by 8:30, he gave me a 7-yard shot and the party ended except being with a great group of guys at camp. Again great food and good time. This bull was a good 6x6 and meant a lot to me having killed it with a good friend’s bow given to me by his wife and son after a long bout with cancer. Thanks to Kay and Tim for Ed’s bow, this elk is for him. Thanks Wayne and Annette for the great time and great food and great dedicated guides. (Outfitter note: Edgar Dixon hunted with us for many many years, and he is greatly missed by all who knew him)

Bob Nichols, Waynesboro PA 717-762-7291 guided by Chase Willis

My second hunt with Wayne Hill. First day lots of walking straight up. Got onto a 5x5 bull with a small group of cows at 45 yards. No shot. But we did have a cow from the same group that stopped within 15-25 yards for about 10 minutes. Later that morning we got onto a spike and there happened to be a small rag horn 6x6 with him. I got a moving shot at 20-25 yards, but I hit the back edge of the shoulder blade and never got that elk. Chase did his part, I didn’t do mine. The third day got into a herd of cows and a spike for about an hour, saw a decent bull among the herd possible could have got a shot, but 2 whitetail deer had us pinned down. Fourth and fifth days we were into elk, but got winded or they didn’t want to come in to the bugle. The sixth day we got onto a herd of cows at 7:30 am and played cat and mouse with the herd bull for about 2 hours. During this time we could hear two other bulls bugling on two different ridges. By 9:30 all was quiet. At 10:30 we got onto the bull again, but we were busted by a cow. Had a fun day with no shot opportunity. On the seventh day a bull was bugling as we got out of the truck. So we made our move. We got to where he was bugling on the next finger ridge. We got to that spot and he was on the next ridge. We ran and caught up to that bull. He came in hot looking for action. He came in straight above and ended up 8 yards away. I was below him and all I could see was his head and a wide tail-heavy rack (300 inch bull). He finally saw me turned and circled. I could see him at about 45 yards, but no shot. Great day! (Get in shape)

Tim Morgus Butler PA guided by Josh Ahlin

Second hunt with Wayne Hill. First day we heard four or five different bulls and saw a nice 5x5 but no shot. The second day we hunted for about an hour and had a bull respond. The bull came straight in and offered no shot. When he was less than 2 yards I had to move my bow so his rack would not hit it. He spooked and I got a quick shot off and hit him high. We looked all day and found nothing. Next day heard a few, nothing close. Fourth day we returned to the area to look for hit bull from day 2. Heard a few other bulls that we chased around with no success. Next two days heard bulls but nothing close. On the seventh day we took a nice walk and heard a bull at day break. We worked him but decided to move on for various reasons. We went on to hear two other bugles. Hunted the one close to us. We were able to cut the bull off and I had a small opening and took a 35-yard shot at a 6x7. The bull went only 35 yards. Thanks Josh, Wayne and Annette. Get in shape and you will enjoy a great hunt.

Robert Williams Butler PA 724-910-4370 guided by Mark Smith

First day saw a nice bull a long way off and heard 4 other bulls. Second day had a small bull into about 10 yards, but no shot opportunity. Third day heard several bull in the area but they wouldn’t cooperate. The fourth day we chased the elk all over the mountain, finally getting to within 80 yards of a bull. That was as close as he would come. Next day we hear 3 bulls, but none were close. Sixth day we set up two times on bulls in the morning, can’t get them in closer than 40 yards. Seventh day distant bulls. Mark did a good job finding bulls this week. The elk just weren’t willing to cooperate with us. Get in shape and you will have a great hunt with Wayne Hill. Thanks to Mark, Wayne and Annette.

Dan Nichols Union WV 304-466-5477 guided by Rich Frahm

First time hunting with Wayne Hill. First day saw two bulls and set up on one but he would not come in. A lot of walking. Second day didn’t hear or see a thing. Third day stayed in..knee. Fourth day, silent. Fifth day we got on a bull, could not have been more than 100 yards away. He kept going away from us as we chased him for a while. The sixth day we heard bulls early. Set up twice. It was exciting listening to Rich and the bull bugle and chuckle at one another, Got real close. The seventh day we heard a lot of bulls on this day. I never did get set up, but we did have 2 cows and a nice bull catch us by surprise as we got to the tope of the ridge. They were about 20 yards away but no shot. They came in silent. Rich is a great guide that will work his tail off for you. I feel that I would have had a better chance for success if I’d been in better shape. Still I had fun.

Alfred Cramer Shirleysburg, PA 814-542-8504 guided by Jared Mellott

This was my 13th hunt with Wayne and Annette, one rifle hunt and 12 archery hunts. Everything was great as usual. Great food, great guides, and a great trip. The first day Jared called in a 5x5 bull, but he had cows with him and would only come in to 60 yards. No shot. The second through fourth days were hot, and the bulls weren’t talking. On the fifth day I hit a nice 6x6 bull with what I thought was a good shot. Had blood, but we could not find him. Sixth day the bulls were not talking, while hunting we looked for the bull I hit the day before, no luck. The seventh day we heard four bulls, but they had cows with them and kept running from us. The last day was very windy and we didn’t have any bulls talking. If you are thinking about an elk hunt whether it is with a rifle or bow you need come and see Wayne and Annette at Wayne Hill Outfitting. If you have any questions concerning Wayne Hill Outfitting rifle or bow hunts, give me a call.

Jim DePowell Bala Cynwayd PA 610-664-3306 guided by James Harvey

Heard bugles every day except one. Got set up on bulls four out of eight days. Day two was the best. On two different set-ups, saw two monster bulls by anyone’s definition, but they hung up and never offered a shot. This is an exciting hunt. The food and accommodations are superb in every regard. There is a high degree of planning and attention to quality with this outfitter. Lodge is a great place to relax after the morning hunt. My guide James worked hard to get me a shot, but the bulls would not cooperate. I think he is part bobcat, as he likes to walk atop fallen logs. I enjoyed the long hikes each day in beautiful country.

Mike Gardner Willmar MN 320-231-1290 guided by TJ Rademacher

Simply put, this is probably the best hunting trip I have ever been on. The hunts are a rush. Getting a bull inside 40 yards seven times was phenomenal! TJ was a great guide and very helpful. I learned a lot. Some of the things I learned are: don’t abuse your knees as a young person (so, too late for me) Elk hunting is more fun than basketball, and I now know. Also: Don’t be overweight. Also the elliptical machine alone won’t quite do it. Climb stairs, hit the weights, and maybe bike too. Then you may be ready for a great time. As I said I had the time of my life! From day one T J had me 15 yards from a young bull, not quite legal, Days two, three, and four I got set up twice a day. Sadly the bulls didn’t quite cooperate, close but no cigar. The next three days were quiet, but we heard a few distant bugles. The afore mentioned knees kept us from chasing. Day 8 though involved two more close encounters, gusts of swirling winds however kept me on the losing end. Never the less, I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I will prepare even more next time. Thanks again TJ. Wayne and Annette run an absolutely first class operation. Great food, comfortable beds, a fantastic lodge filled with trophies galore, and even better stories. Wayne is a “one of a kind”. Don’t miss the chance to be with him. He knows his stuff and he imparts that in his staff. They make it a great time. I will definitely try to come back. I had a great adventure!

Jeff Danielson Willmar, MN 320-235-9770 guided by Tayler Bishop

Eight days of hard hunting produced no shot opportunities, but it wasn’t because of a lack of effort or animals. Tayler was a great guide who tried everything, but the elk just weren’t cooperative. We chased the bugling bulls everyday. Up, down, up and down again almost every day. Imagine waking up and climbing a 350-story building once or twice every day for 8 days and you’re ready to chase elk in Western Montana. It’s rugged, steep country and Wayne and Annette run a great operation. The guides give you 100 percent and the lodge and food are fantastic.

Jim Green Fredonia NY 716-679-1033 guided by Chuck Hall

The first day was quiet early morning @ 9:30 A Chuck got an answer to a locator bugle. He changed bugles and tried again - this time 3 bulls answered. Down the mountain and up the other side. The elk got above us and got our wind. A long walk out. The second day we checked two areas - nothing. Went to a 3rd area and heard 2 elk bugling. We went down, very steep, 1 bull bugled but moved off without any action.

Evening hunt - heard a bull moving up the mountain, not enough light left to go after it. On way back to lodge saw momma black bear with 2 cubs. They were about the size of a rotweiller. Third day, long walk into area in the dark to trail, @ 9:30A Chuck got an answer to his bugle. Yup - on the other side of the drainage, away we go. Saw a spike bull. Got to within 30 yards of the bull that bugled, very thick. Chuck could see the legs, but I could not see the elk. He raked the trees, bugled, chuckled and melted away. Could not get on him again. Saw a spike on the way out. Fourth day we heard 4 elk bugling - one below us that we could not get in on, but as we moved around the mountain, he would follow us. We never saw him. Walking out on the trail we had used to access the area, we walked up on a brown horse. Startled the hell out of us. We had apparently walked by the horse on the way in but never knew it. Fifth day was slow - heard 2 bugles and found a large wallow that was not being used. On the sixth day Chuck bugled in the dark and got an answer close to us. We backed off and waited for daylight. We went low on the mountain - got an answer to Chuck's bugle on the other side of the drainage, but quiet on our side. Heard bugle high on mountain, so up we went after him - he went quiet and never answered again.

Evening hunt - Chuck got bull bugling and it was within 30 yards, but moved off to about 80 yards before we saw him. He moved off. Seventh day Chuck got an answer to bugle and we moved up on him - he moved up on us. We met at about 15 yards, and he moved off to about 75 yards but would not come back. We tried a different area of the mountain, which had huge blow-downs. Chuck got a bull to bugle and elk moved up toward us. Would not come close due to blow-downs and hung up, we could see him but could not get close. Day 8 - Had to leave early due to family obligation. As always, Annette and Wayne provided a very exciting hunt, excellent food and great lodgings. This was my 3rd hunt with Annette and Wayne and each one gets better. The conversation is always lively with Wayne spicing it up. Hope to come back again. Guides work their butts off for the hunter.

SEPTEMBER 19th- 26th

Ben Beiler Paradise, PA 717-786-0053 guided by Mark Smith

First and second day I was guided by Mark, the third day I was guided by Mark and Jared. The first day started with a long hike up the mountain. Saw two bulls at 60-70 yards but they wouldn’t come in. The second day we heard about 6 or 7 different bulls, but didn’t see any bulls. Third day after a long wet hike we heard a few bulls and went after one bull after a small bugle and a few cow calls a 4x4 came in at 10 yards. He did not like what he saw and turned around and ran. After some cow calling by Mark and Jared he came back and I took a shot at about 25 yards. After running 10 feet he fell and we were all giving high 5’s. Then the bull jumps up and runs. After about an hour of tracking Jared found him. Thanks to Mark and Jared and thanks to Wayne and Annette for the great hunt and the great food.

Isaac King Jr Holtwood PA 717-989-1997 guided by Chase Willis

First day passed on a 5x3 bull that had broken horns on one side. The second day saw 4 different bulls, got set up twice, but the wind kept changing on us. Saw a big 6x6 and 6x7. The third day I missed a bull first thing in the morning, at 40 yards. I misjudged the yardage. Got set up on a second bull but he stopped behind bushes and didn’t give me a shot. Saw one other bull. The fourth day only a spike. The fifth day I got set up on a bull at first light, got to within 60 yards until the wind swirled and he smelled us. I saw one other bull. The sixth day I saw 5 different bulls. Chase called a herd bull in to 25 yards but he never presented a shot. We were onto bulls until noon. As we headed down to the road we heard two bulls bugling on top of the next mountain. We decided to leave them until the next morning. On the seventh day we started climbing towards where we had heard the bulls the day before. After 2 hours we got close to the spot. All of a sudden we had bulls coming at us from every direction. We went after the closest bull, but he winded us, then we had a spike sneak into 30 yards. Then we went after the next bull, but he stayed over 60 yards for an hour (real nice 6x6) After that we saw another spike and a 3x3 with cows. Then we went to the next ridge and got set up on the 3x3 bull. He got into an opening at 40 yards, missed again. We went after him immediately trying to get another shot, after 15 yards we stopped to listen for him. We heard crashing behind us and turned around and here was a 5x5 barreling down on us. Chase got him stopped at 15 yards broadside. This time the arrow flew true, double lunged him with the first arrow. Chase stopped him at 40 yards and I got a second arrow in his lungs. He ran about 100 yards and crashed. Was without a doubt the best hunt I ever had. I saw over 20 bulls in seven days of hunting. Wayne runs a 5 star operation. Annette knows what she is doing in the kitchen. Thanks Wayne, Annette, Chase and everyone else at Wayne Hill Outfitting.

Norman Hart Strange Creek WV 304-364-8536 guided by Eric Santos

My second hunt with Wayne and Annette. We were into elk early the first day. He chuckled at 40 yards, but I could not see him. Then we followed him up the hillside before he shut-up and was gone. Next three days no action. The fifth day I was in elk up to my butt. They were coming from all directions. The wind changed and the ones to the right were gone. Two more were coming from the left, but started to go above us. I checked the wind. Bad news; the elk was screaming at 30 yards but I could not see him for the brush. He winded us and was gone. Next three days no action. Did not get an elk this time. Food and accommodations were great as usual.

Scott Hammond Glasgow KY 270-659-2992 guided by Jared Mellott

This was my second hunt with Wayne and Annette. The first day heard no bulls, but had a 5x5 sneak in on us. Came no closer than 40 yards. I took a shot and arrow hit a tree limb. The next day heard three different bulls. Had a 4x4 come to within 40 yards and winded us. Then a nice 5x5 came in to 25 yards with no shot and winded us. Third day I stayed in bed sick. Fourth day had one bugling early. Chased after him and he didn’t want to play. On the fifth day we got into 5 or 6 different bulls early. We went after the closest, and then he got quiet. So we went after the others. Had one about 45 yards and wind changed, bye-bye elk. About 15 minutes later had one bugle about 40 yards away, couldn’t see him through the brush. Set up, but he wouldn’t come in. He left silent. Next day we went back to the same place as day two and had 2 bugling early, one on the other mountain, the other at the bottom of the drainage. I decided not to pursue him down hill due to knee problems. We walked a couple more miles and had another bugle. I decided to go down hill part way to see if he would meet us and he didn’t feel like it. Seventh day, nothing. Day eight we had 2 or three bugling before daylight. We pursued the closest one and got within about 150 yards. He shut up. Down the hill and up the other side chasing after another one. No soup for me. The third one we heard was way way down in the bottom of the drainage so we pursued. One hour later at the bottom, my knees were shot and we were out of time. Great 8 days, no elk. Good food and people.

Steve Rinaldi Kellogg ID 208-786-6061 guided by Wayne Hill, Jesse Gagner, and Jared Mellott

My fourth time and planning to return for as long as I can. Although I didn’t draw back on an elk, didn’t mean that opportunities weren’t available. I passed on 2 smaller 5 pointers within 15-20 yards broadside. I personally am looking for a heavy 5 point or bigger. Jesse called in one of the 5 pointers on an evening hunt. Another evening Jared took me to hear 3-4 bulls bugling back and forth at each other. As always Wayne tried his best to put me on the elk, but some inopportune weather and wrong wind directions sometimes factor in on getting close enough to shoot. Over the week I saw at least six bulls and set up on 2-3 others. I have a lot of respect for Wayne and his guides and am looking forward to hunting with them in the future.

Rick Burns Tecumseh Ontario Canada 519-355-6909 guided by Mark Smith Jared Mellott and Tayler Bishop

My first time with Wayne Hill Outfitting and was an awesome experience! Lets talk elk: Days one, two, and three we had bull elk within 40 yards but no clean shot. I will also add that the first 3 days of the hunt just about killed me; keeping up with the guide running up and down the mountain. Get in Shape I ran 2 miles a day but what I should have done was 10 miles straight up hill. Days 4-8 were much better, my legs got used to the pain. The fourth day only one elk; chased him nothing close. The fifth through sixth day had two elk bugling but silenced up when we got within 100 yards. The seventh day was heaven!!! My guides called in a total of 5 bulls within an hour and a half time span. I had a beautiful bull at 25 yards broadside, there were small branches covering the vitals, took the shot hoping to find a hole, but no such luck. The arrow shot true and deflected off a branch 45 degrees into the air, clean miss. The bull was not spooked and I almost got a second shot, but it didn’t happen. No sooner did the action stop, when an elk (thought to be a bull) came charging down the mountain straight at us. The elk was a cow and she stopped 7 feet from me broadside, guide advised me not to shoot. Ten minutes after that, another bull came in about 50 yards away, he was a beautiful 6x6 but he winded us. Shortly after him we had a cow followed by 2 more excellent bulls. I went to full draw again, but no clean shooting lane. What can I say, nothing but awesome action. The facilities are extremely clean and service was second to none. The food is great, Annette, you rock! I loved the 8-day hunt!

Steve Beiler Paradise PA 717-669-8298 guided by Jesse Gagner

This was my first hunt with Wayne Hill. I saw elk every day and we set upon bulls many times. Several bulls came in, but I had no shot before they smelled me. Thanks to Wane and his good guides. And the food was good. I have already booked for next year.

Mark Hoffman Onsted MI 517-467-9328 guided by Josh Ahlin

Where do I even start? The lodge was outstanding; a place you could call home. Hot showers, great food, spotless. Annette does a great job. Second to none. Josh is an outstanding guide. He knows his way around this country very well. He got me on bulls every day, but you have to work very hard to get there. What a challenge! The country is unforgiving. It will put you to the test mentally and physically, but Josh and I had a great time and he made it fun. He got me on a great 6x6 bull at 15 yards and can you believe no shot, he stopped behind a pine tree. Next day we worked very hard, up and down on hands and knees through some stuff I didn’t think an animal that size could even think of going through. Let alone us, but we did. Just about the time I thought I couldn’t go anymore, we heard a bugling and off we go .We got set up on a nice 6x6. He came in to 15 yards again he stopped in the brush. I was at full draw for what seemed like forever. He made one little step just before I knew he was going to run, I had a small hole so I let the arrow fly and I hit a branch and deflected into the bulls shoulder and he was gone. The next day at 7:30 am we got another 6x6 set up at 25 yards, all I had to shoot at was back hind quarter. Man what a hunt! Had a great time and met some great guys from all over the country. Looking forward to the day I can come back. I would hunt with Josh any place, anytime. Until we meet again!

Sam King Holtwood PA 717-989-3007 guided by Rich Frahm

The first day we got dropped off on the top of the mountain, we walked about three or four hundred yards before we stopped and Rich bugled. Rich’s bugle was immediately answered by a bull that was within a hundred yards below us. We quickly made our way down the ridge toward the bull but we never got to see him. We heard him move his cows down the ridge but that was it. The second day after climbing for about half an hour we heard a short bugle about 200 yards away. We quickly hurried toward the bugle only to go almost too far. Suddenly Rich spotted the bull about 60 yards away. He came to about 45 yards but he was a little bit small. He was pretty much a spike, but he split about two inches each way at the end of the main beams and had a four-inch sticker, which made him legal. I motioned to Rich that I didn’t want the bull. He quit calling and the bull moved on. I don’t recall the third and fourth days specifically but I know we saw or heard bulls every day. It was a blast every day! The fifth day we got close and set up on a few bulls but didn’t quite settle the score. The sixth day we heard at least six or seven different bulls but didn’t get closer than about 55 yards. We couldn’t see the bulls because it was too thick. We did find a beautiful 6x6 that somebody must have shot a few weeks prior. The seventh day was by far the most exciting day of hunting I ever had. First of all we had two whitetails about sixty yards away and had a bull bugling about 100 yards below them. One buck scoring about 140 and the other one about 120. (Too bad I didn’t have a deer tag) We couldn’t get the bull to talk anymore so we continued down the mountain. Suddenly we heard a huge bull about 90 yards below us. We quickly set up and before I knew it the big 6x6 bull was right in my face. Twenty-five yards away with Rich about 50 yards behind me sounding off with his cow calls and snapping branches the bull started toward my left side. Suddenly I felt a slight breeze on the back of my neck and I knew it was all over. OH well!! Will definitely be back next year (08). Rich was an awesome guide. I had a wonderful time and the food and accommodations were totally awesome.

Scott Banfield Pine City NY guided by Chuck Hall
Hit and wounded a big 6x6. Did not recover.

SEPTEMBER 28- October 2

Hadrian Jones Rixeyville, VA 540-660-1436 guided by Jared Mellott, Tayler Bishop and TJ Rademacher

First bugle at 8 am. We chased for thirty minutes. Set up on 5x5 bull. Unfortunately bull was at 55 yards, no shot too much brush. Bull moved up the mountain, and we gave chase and set up again, but the bull hung up at 70 yards. Second day heard bugles, but other hunters messed us up. Third day no action. The fourth and fifth day of my five day hunt we had bad weather, rain, sleet, and snow. No bugles. Saw one 300+ bull at 600 yards.

Tom DiPietro Belleville MI 810-774-1404 guided by Josh Ahlin and Mark Smith

In any hunting, weather can be friend or foe. Apparently the weather had been too friendly to hunters of elk the last three weeks cuz it went pretty bad the last three days; swirling winds, rain, fog and snow. You know the drill. The elk didn’t like it much and as each day’s weather worsened they got tighter lipped. Thanks to my guides we managed to get into elk the first 4 days. Calling response was poor, but Josh was able to get close to them, no shot opportunity though. There are a million elk in this area and the sign was very evident. As always the excellent home cooked meals and warm comfortable lodge made the hunt most enjoyable. See ya next time.

Corey Baumgardner Johnstown PA 814-269-3546 guided by Chase Willis

First day two bulls. Set up on one, he came in to 45 to 50 yards, but no shot. The second day we ran into a herd of 12-15 elk but the bull ran them away from us. The third day I got set up on a bull, he came no closer than 70 yards. Last two days bad weather. No bugling. Thanks to Wayne and Annette for a great time. The hunting was hard and country was beautiful. Chase was an awesome guide and a nice kid to be around, he worked very hard for me.

Gary Baumgardner Summerhill, PA 814-487-4816 guided by Chuck Hall

Airlines screwed up delayed flight. Wreck in tunnel delayed arrival at airport. I was over stressed, called Annette and Wayne; they saved the day, Thanks. Chuck was my guide and a great guy. He worked hard and called a bull in but it wouldn’t come in close enough. The mountains are tough. The third day we heard many bulls, but no shots. The fourth day Chuck managed to call a bull to within a60 yards, he winded us, game over. Last two days weather made the hunting not good. This was a terrific hunt. Being here is like being adopted into a new family where everyone has a concern for everyone else. Wayne is leader of the family but Annette runs the place! I loved it here!

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Wayne Hill Outfitting
P.O. Box 1487
Noxon, Montana 59853
(406) 847-5563
E-Mail: information@waynehilloutfitting.com

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