Realtree Outdoors Season 3 Episode 3 Elk Hunt of a Lifetime

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In the third episode of the third season of Realtree Outdoors, titled Elk Hunt of a Lifetime, hosts David Blanton, Tyler Jordan, and Josh Honeycutt embark on a challenging and rewarding adventure in the rugged mountains of New Mexico. Joining the team are two lucky sweepstakes winners, who have the opportunity to pursue giant bull elk along with the seasoned hunters.

After landing in Albuquerque and driving to the town of Chama, the group meets their guides from Beaverhead Outfitters and checks their gear for the high-altitude hunt. David, Tyler, and Josh are no strangers to chasing elk in various terrains, but the Gila National Forest presents a unique setting with thick woods, steep canyons, and meadows that require different tactics and skills. The sweepstakes winners, Rick and Nick, are excited but nervous, as they have never hunted elk before and have limited experience with firearms.

As the sun rises on the first morning, the hunters set out on horses and mules to reach their base camp, situated at about 10,000 feet above sea level. The air is thin, the scenery is breathtaking, and the mood is optimistic. However, the weather forecast calls for a storm front to move in soon, which could affect the elk behavior and the hunters' visibility and safety. The guides split up the group into pairs and assign them to different areas, hoping to increase their chances of finding bull elk that are either rutting, feeding, or resting.

For David and Rick, the first encounter is a thrilling one, as they spot a herd of elk and stalk within range of a mature bull. However, the bull is in a tough spot and angles away from them, forcing a difficult shot that misses. Meanwhile, Tyler and Nick are covering a lot of ground but have yet to see any elk. Josh and his guide, Mike, have a longer ride and hike to reach a remote basin where they hope to find bulls that avoid human pressure. Along the way, Josh marvels at the beauty of the forest and the conservation efforts that have helped restore elk populations in the region.

As the first day winds down, the hunters reunite at camp and share their stories and strategies. Everyone has seen or heard elk, but only David has had a shot opportunity so far. The guides advise them to be patient and adaptable, as elk can move quickly and unpredictably in response to weather or hunting pressure. The next morning, they split up again and try new spots, hoping for better luck.

The second day brings a mix of frustration and excitement. Tyler and Nick finally spot elk from a distance, but they spook before Tyler can get a shot. David and Rick have a long hike and glassing session that leads them to a group of cows and calves but no bulls. Josh and Mike spend most of their day climbing high ridges and glassing deep canyons, battling winds and rain, and finally locating a bull that Josh deems worthy of a stalk. However, that stalk proves to be even more challenging than expected, testing Josh's physical, mental, and shooting abilities.

As the third day dawns, the storm has passed, but the sun is shining on a frosty landscape. The hunters are running out of time and energy, but their spirits are still high, driven by the thrill of the chase and the camaraderie of the team. They split up once more and try to cover as much ground as possible, hoping to intercept a bull on its way to a feeding area or a bedding spot. Without giving away any spoilers, let's just say that the Elk Hunt of a Lifetime lives up to its name, delivering unforgettable memories and lessons for everyone involved.

Overall, Elk Hunt of a Lifetime showcases the beauty and challenges of hunting elk in one of the most scenic and rugged landscapes of the West. The hosts and guides share their expertise and passion for conservation, hunting, and the outdoors, while also highlighting the benefits of sharing the experience with others, including newcomers and winners of sweepstakes. With stunning cinematography, authentic dialogues, and realistic hunting situations, this episode is a must-watch for any fan of elk hunting and wilderness adventures.