Western Vantage – September 22, 2025
Your straight-shooting hunting report, Mon–Fri.
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Colorado Elk Hunt Tragedy
Two experienced hunters — Andrew Porter of North Carolina and Ian Stasko of Salt Lake City — were found dead in Colorado’s Rio Grande National Forest after nearly a weeklong search. Both men, just 25, had last checked in via satellite on Sept. 11 while elk hunting. Search and Rescue located their bodies near the Rio de Los Pinos Trailhead on Sept. 18. Investigators report no obvious trauma; cause of death is still unknown.
READ: https://people.com/2-hunters-found-dead-after-nearly-weeklong-search-11813469
Idaho Deer & Elk Outlook 2025
Idaho Fish & Game’s latest forecast is cautiously optimistic:
• Elk calf survival was strong last winter — expect solid herds.
• Mule deer fawn survival ticked up slightly, but recovery is still uneven.
• First confirmed case of EHD in Clearwater Region whitetails — biologists monitoring closely.
READ: https://idfg.idaho.gov/article/2025-deerelk-hunting-outlook
Wyoming Hunt Forecast Drops
Wyoming Game & Fish released its 2025 hunt forecast:
• Antler point restrictions in Hunt Areas 19, 25, 29 & 31.
• Expect limited access in some units — private land gates remain an issue.
• Hunters urged to plan around drought-impacted ranges and water sources.
READ: https://wgfd.wyo.gov/news-events/hunters-2025-wyoming-hunt-forecast-available
Colorado Big Game Seasons Underway
Archery seasons for elk, deer, and black bear are active now. Rifle and muzzleloader openers are around the corner. CPW reminds hunters:
• Blaze orange/pink clothing required in rifle/muzzleloader seasons.
• Expect crowded trailheads — hikers, bikers, and leaf-peepers are out.
• Scout early to avoid opening-day surprises.
READ: https://cpw.state.co.us/news/09032025/hunting-seasons-start-colorado-how-hunters-and-outdoor-recreationists-can-prepare-and
Gear Drop
• Bergara Cima CF Rifle – Carbon-fiber barreled ultralight built for mountain hunts.
GEAR: https://www.bergara.online/us/rifles/cima-cf
• Kuiu Venture Divide 3000 Pack – Modular design that works as both day-pack and bivy pack.
GEAR: https://www.kuiu.com/venture-divide-3000-pack
• Primos Alpha Dogg Predator Call – Electronic caller with 75 preloaded sounds, plus custom upload ability.
GEAR: https://www.primos.com/game-calls/electronic-calls/alpha-dogg-electronic-caller/
Fit to Hunt
Quick tip: Don’t neglect pack conditioning. Even 20-minute uphill walks with a weighted pack 3x a week will prep your body for pack-out miles when it matters.
Stay sharp out there.
— The Western Vantage Team
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