Ep 154 - Mark Livesay: Building a Hunt Plan and Locating Elk

Mark Livesay of Treeline Pursuits joins Sam on The Wild Initiative for an in-depth exploration of the art and science of scouting for elk. With decades of backcountry hunting experience under his belt, Mark has honed his skills and developed a unique, groundbreaking system for locating prime hunting areas. From paper topo maps to cutting-edge digital tools like Google Earth, Mark shares his best tips and strategies for crafting the ultimate hunt plan. Discover the secrets of scouting, the importance of mobility and adaptability, and the power of having a solid written hunting plan. In this episode, Mark breaks down the significance of studying hunt areas, identifying zones of pressure, and knowing access points and campgrounds like the back of your hand. His expertise extends to understanding the impact of beetle kills and burns on elk habitats, providing you with a holistic view of the terrain. He dives deep into the features of various mapping applications, revealing the pros and cons of each platform at different stages of hunt development. Mark's dedication to sharing his unbiased knowledge shines through, offering insights into tools like Google Earth, OnX, and Basemap. He emphasizes the power of blending digital and analog methods when scouting and hunting, creating a comprehensive approach that maximizes your chances of success. Mark's encounters with fellow hunters, his attempts to call in elusive elk, and his willingness to help others with butchering add a real-world touch to the wealth of information he provides. His passion for hunting is infectious, and his dedication to helping fellow hunters shines through in every word. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your hunting journey, this episode is a goldmine of insights and techniques that will elevate your hunting game. To take your hunting skills to the next level, be sure to check out Mark's Treeline Academy, the ultimate course on e-scouting. And here's a special treat for fans of The Wild Initiative: use code TWI to get $20 OFF your subscription to Treeline Academy. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a true hunting expert and enhance your elk hunting experience. Guest Info Mark Livesay/Treeline Academy treelineacademy.net (Use code TWI for $20 OFF.) @treeline_pursuits facebook.com/treelinepursuits youtube.com/@TreelineAcademy [email protected] Mentioned in this Episode Western Hunting Summit Elk101 University of Elk Hunting Online Course Randy Newberg E-Scouting Eastmans Tag Hub GoHunt TopRut ElkTalk Podcast w/ Corey Jacobsen & Randy Newberg Google Earth onX Maps Gaia GPS Basemap -- Get deals and discounts on products, gear and more from friends of The Wild Initiative at thewildinitiative.com/discounts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices