Ken and Joe drew Utah limited-entry deer tags for the San Juan Elkridge unit in 2002, a once premium limited-entry unit. Many have heard of the area, but the number of animals has dropped off the past few years, though the potential for good ones is still there.

We were able to help Ken and Joe find some good bucks — clearly not the best they'd ever taken, from pictures they showed us — but both Ken and Joe are in their 70s, so they had zero complaints. Their appreciation for the hunt was more in the experience and company rather than in the kill, a good lesson to us all. It was nice, however, to see them NOT have to make the long trip home empty-handed. Ken harvested a 29" 3x4, estimated by the local biologist to be at least 10 years old. Joe took a slightly smaller 3x4 26" wide, still a nice buck. They both took their bucks on the third evening of the hunt.

My brother, Todd Black, and I have been guiding people on the San Juan Elkridge unit and other areas for years and have never come across nicer guys. Their attitude and company were much appreciated. We also started a new friendship — my brother and I felt like they were our grandads. We are already planning another hunt for them for 2003. These guys are two that California can be proud of — what great examples for younger, less experienced hunters!

Our website is www.cwms4u.com

Thanks again for your great website, and thanks for Ken and Joe.

Submitted by Travis Black
Blanding, Utah