Curtis Mangus: Idaho Selway Wilderness Elk Hunt Report

Idaho, Selway Wilderness Elk Hunt
November 3, 2023

This was a true wilderness hunt. It is physically demanding, and you must be in good physical condition, and have done your homework. If you are not prepared for a physically demanding hunt, using horses, walking 6-8 miles a day, and living in a wall tent for a week, you need to find an easier hunt. I am 63 years old and did just fine.

I have been hunting elk for 50 years, and have been in many different hunting camps. This hunt and camp was as represented. This is terrific country for deer and elk, but the success rate is only 20% for elk, and your going to have to work for them. We also had a ton of rain on this hunt, which made the conditions difficult.

I saw a small six point bull I could have killed on the first day, which I passed on. I was on another wilderness hunt earlier and killed a larger six point on that hunt. I saw 28 deer in one day, and walked nine miles that day. I saw over 10 bucks, and one nice shooter that got away.

The outfitter is a younger guide, but has what it takes. He knows the country, knows the stock, and is concerned about the hunters and their success. His camp is well located and maintained. His guides are competent and his stock is good.

I talked to him about better communication before the hunt. He needs to provide his inreach for communication when he is at camp, and make sure someone can return calls within 24 hours. Also his voicemail and email needs to be regularly updated with dates and when they are available.

I have hunted with two previous guides in this area, and will not be returning to hunt with them. I will be booking another hunt with this outfitter, enough said.

Thank you Outdoors International!

It was an amazing steelhead fishing trip! I brought my dad along with me and we slayed the fish. If you guys aren't applying for the OI Draws, you should. They're legit!

Tyler Kirk / OI Draw Winner

I couldn't believe we won!

We won this fully guided, all-inclusive New Zealand red stag hunt in the OI Draw! I highly recommend this hunt, and Outdoors International—fantastic company, amazing meals, and hunts that are second to none.

Brandon Ball / OI Draw Winner

I'm so grateful for the opportunity!

Thank you to Outdoors International, all the PH's and their awesome staff. I made some new friends and will be back to Africa again 100%.

Brye Mangum / OI Draw Winner

My most memorable and rewarding experience.

This was my first guided hunt, and the outfitter was amazing. He was able to keep me motivated and encouraged to hold out for true trophies. I would rate him on an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10! I never thought Africa would be a reality for me. Thank you Outdoors International.

Dason Lasater / OI Draw Winner