2025 Elk Hunting Recap

Every fall, elk season reminds us why we love this place. Long days, early mornings, changing weather, and the kind of effort that doesn’t always show up in a harvest photo (but always matters). The 2025 season at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge was a good example of that balance. It wasn’t perfect, and conditions were often challenging, but taken as a whole, it was a successful year with strong hunter participation, plenty of opportunities, and results that our hunters and guides can be proud of.

Here’s a quick recap of how the season unfolded.

Archery & Muzzleloader Season

Early season kicked things off on a high note. Archery season was a ton of fun and produced some great encounters. During these September hunts, bugling bulls and close calls are what it’s all about! Anyone who has tried hunting elk with a bow (especially on a wilderness hunt), knows that it’s one of the most challenging big game hunts on earth. Out of our seven guided hunters throughout the month, five had shot opportunities. We had one clean miss at 40 yards with a bow. And unfortunately, one bull that was unrecovered.

Once again, our guided muzzleloader hunts had a 100% shot opportunity rate. This continues to be our most consistently successful hunt, year after year. One of the more memorable stories from the season came during this hunt: one hunter’s muzzleloader misfired three separate times. And somehow, he still managed to get another opportunity, and ultimately take a bull! That kind of perseverance, combined with good guiding and strong elk numbers, is what makes these hunts special.

First Rifle Season

First rifle was the toughest week of the year. Warm, dry conditions made elk movement more limited and required extra effort from both hunters and guides. Across the lodge and wilderness camps, we had 10 hunters total. By the end of the week, we had a total of six shot opportunities. Three harvested bulls and three misses.

While the first rifle season was not an easy week, it was one that rewarded hunters who stayed focused, covered ground, and trusted the process. Even in challenging conditions, we continued to see elk and generate chances.

Second Rifle Season

Second rifle season was a standout week for 2025. Despite continued warm and dry weather – far from classic rifle elk conditions – the hunting was very productive. Out of 14 total hunters, nine bulls were taken, with consistent action throughout the week.

This kind of success speaks to the quality of our country, the experience of our guides, and the effort our hunters put in day after day. When conditions aren’t perfect, preparation and local knowledge matter, and this week showed that clearly.

Beyond the Numbers

While harvest numbers are easy to tally, they don’t tell the whole story of a season at Budge’s. Our crew put in long days riding, packing camps, and adapting plans as conditions changed. Hunters worked hard too, covering ground, staying patient during slow periods, and capitalizing when opportunities finally came together.

Camp life remains a big part of the experience. Evenings around the lodge or in wilderness camps are filled with good meals, shared stories, and the kind of camaraderie that makes the tough days worth it. For us, success isn’t just measured in antlers, but in the overall experience of hunting remote, wilderness country with great people.

Looking Ahead

It’s nice to take a short breather after a full season, but we’re already looking ahead. Demand for our elk hunts continues to be strong. We are nearly booked full for the 2026 season, and we are now actively booking for 2027.

If you’re thinking about an elk hunt at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge, now is the time to reach out. Contact us for the latest availability and details. You can call or text 970-536-1341. Or send us a message. You can also learn more about our elk hunts here.

Thanks to all the hunters who joined us this season. We appreciate the trust you put in us and look forward to what’s ahead.