Bearpaw Outfitters

Bearpaw Outfitters operates guided and unguided hunts across four western states, but their bread and butter is elk and mule deer in Southeast Idaho's Bear River and Bannock Elk Zones—some of the most scenic and productive country in the region.

They offer three flavors: guided hunts (1-on-1, 2-on-1, or 3-on-1), semi-guided (advice on where to hunt, help packing out), and unguided. Drop camps come in horseback-in or drive-in versions, and they'll provide the camp setup or you can bring your own gear.

All guided hunts include lodging and meals. Drop camps range from $1,950 (DIY) to $3,950 (outfitter-provided horseback camp).

Archery season runs August 30–September 30. Rifle hunts are October 15–24 (general season) or October 1–14 (early draw). You'll wake to a continental breakfast, head into the field before dawn, hunt each day, and return to hot meals at the lodge.

Hunt methods include glassing openings and canyon walls, stalking, watching water sources, and hunting ridges and mountain trails. Past hunters have taken hundreds of elk and deer; trophy quality runs good with average bulls at 4x4 to 5x5, and bulls over 300" seen every year.

Past hunters have taken hundreds of elk and mule deer with Bearpaw Outfitters. A+ rating at the BBB.

Your guide field dresses, skins, quarters, and packs out game. The team includes Dale Denney (outfitter), Daniel Evans, Drew Stanley, Russell Mason, and Zach Flyte. Lodge locations near Pocatello are about 3 hours from Salt Lake Airport.

Firearms & Gear Requirements: - Rifles .257 or larger, max 16 lbs (no electronics except battery scopes) - Archery: 40+ lb draw weight, 85% max letoff, arrows 24"+, 300 grain minimum - Practice rifle shots 50–400 yards; archery 10–60 yards

• •Not Included: Personal gear, license fees, gratuities, meat processing, taxidermy, or shipping.