The Surprising Reason Mountain Hunters Quit! Anticipating, Recognizing and Dealing with Stress

[@dakotainstallers6406]

This is pure Gold. Every first time mountain hunter or back country hiker should watch this. I've been fortunate to spend many nights in the back country on DIY trips both solo and with friends, spring and fall. Experience is the #1 preparation. I'm from Eastern SD and anyone that lives in lower elevation and flat ground will never be physically prepared for the mountain until they experience the mountain. The absolute HOLY SH*T moment when you show up at the trailhead and realize what you signed up for can be a massive hormonal dump. It's just the facts, the mountain is going to kick your ass physically the first few days and the mental strength to push through that I believe is the key to a successful hunt. Day 3 when the hips and knees are sore and you find out your new boots aren't broke in as well as you thought.....you didn't sleep well at night because you're in predator country for the first time in your life and it's dead silent, yet so loud you hear everything; mind gets racing. It's windy/rainy and so loud you can't hear anything; mind gets racing. You're cold, uncomfortable, sore, tired.....It's time to start the day. 3:30am. As a first timer you have just pushed yourself to the first barrier of your mental limits and nowhere near your physical limits. The understanding that mountain hunting is more mental than physical is the first step to overcoming and pushing through the negative thoughts of doubt that creep in and distract you from the present. If you've never experienced stressful situations and don't know how you will react; the mountain is going to teach you things about yourself. Rid your mind of your day to day life struggles and stresses before showing up to the mountain. Your mind will certainly drift to these when it gets tough. The days are long, 14+hrs of daylight and you aren't seeing critters. No cell phone service to keep you entertained. Lots of time with your thoughts....Mind wonders. Take a nap down by the water. Get rehydrated. Don't be late for the evening prime time. Stay mentally strong, keep the wind in your face, and the sun on your back. It's always a good day on the mountain and just being there in the present is what success is. Fill a tag or not; the success comes from the determination to push through and find your limits while being present and living in the moment.

[@CliffGray]

Love this comment - thanks man!

[@scottreimer6513]

Thanks Man! You and Cliff both are helping me mentally prepare for my first real Elk hunt in Colorado. I'm from Michigan so its going to be a struggle for sure but I am going to fight through it!!

[@patmcdonough1144]

I found using foam earplugs at night helps drown out that noise factor you touched upon for a good night’s sleep! Still can hear the early morning iPhone alarm but wind or other noise diminished makes a huge difference! Great videos Cliff! Thanks for these valuable lessons!

[@BMWQC]

Very well said sir!

[@intuitivefugitive8852]

@@patmcdonough1144til a grizzly comes to lay down with you while you’re sound asleep deaf pretty much 😂 Hope not but be prepared

[@jdam568]

Ive been a serious hunter for 42 years and hunted with good and bad partners. Your assessment is spot on. I always remind myself that hunting is supposed to be enjoyable, whether i kill something or not. Its good to be upbeat and optimistic, but not have unrealistic expectations. With hunting, things can change in seconds, never give up.

[@CliffGray]

For sure. appreciate the support. thanks

[@campsitez2355]

You're right. What's the point of going hunting with someone who is going to bring along something in 6.5mm caliber because they don't care if they actually find any game?

[@timothyletkeman]

I learned that point on my first public land deer hunt. Hunted all week and saw three does and two forkies. I was glassing off of a cliff with ten minutes of shooting light left on the last day. The nagging in my head to quit and head home was constant all day and getting worse. In a last ditch effort I let off a fawn in distress call to see if I could stand something up. And lo and behold a buck was directly below me bedded against the same cliff I was glassing off of. He stood up and started to jog off when he heard the call. I threw the rifle over my spotter for a rest and hammered him twice. Biggest deer I’ve ever taken.

[@mylesburdett7518]

"It just takes 1" is what I tell myself. I also keep milestones of success. Like driving away from the house, the milestones you see the unit, campsite, camp set up... anything! Seeing a rare bird, or watching a wasp take down an annoying fly can make an entire day.

[@benfromalbuquerque6083]

F@$k that fly!

[@dancoleman8467]

I want to sincerely thank you for this. I'm 68 years old, retired, and going on my first elk hunt - ever - in three weeks. I do not feel prepared. How can I; I've never done this before? You've brought to light a lot of what I can expect, and I hope by doing so that I will enjoy myself and not stress out over it too much. Again, thank you for this video. It is exactly what I need to hear and study before I leave. I'm going to watch it again and again. I may not be in the best shape. I may not be experienced. But, I will plan to have a great attitude, make the best of it, and enjoy myself most of all. You're right, I already paid my money. I don't need to worry about a thing. I'm going to focus on having a good time. I know it will be hard; that's what I signed up for.

[@coffeehunter8742]

Hey man! I read your comment just now, almost a year later. What did you think about your hunt??!! How'd it go? I'm 62, planning my first elk hunt as well. Thanks! Love to hear your reply!

[@dancoleman1269]

​@coffeehunter8742 My hunt went exceptionally well. I bagged a magnificent cow, approximately 12 years of age. I brought home 254 lbs of delicious, tender meat. The experience was so amazing; however, it all happened very quickly. Months of planning. Two days of driving out there. The next morning we went scouting and surprisingly found a small gang with this exceptional female. I set up for the 180 yd shot and squeezed off one round - a .308 Barnes Vortex 130 gn. The cow did not flinch. I thought it was a complete miss. A few seconds passed, then she crumpled down right where she stood. It took 20 or 30 minutes to hike over there. My guide radioed for some help. Later we drove to the meat processing plant where the elk was slaughtered and packaged. The next two days were spent driving home with the meat in two 150 qt. coolers with about four 20 lb bags of ice. The meat is delicious, but the experience, while epic, is just a blur. I doubt I'll ever have the opportunity to repeat it. Although, I'm thrilled that I did it. It was a dream, a privilege, an honor. I am incredibly grateful that I had the opportunity. For me, it was a once in a lifetime experience. It was priceless!!

[@ryanvanderveen8889]

I went on a guided elk hunt a few years ago with my dad and got to witness this first hand. I noticed two things increase the stress factors, age and difficult hunting conditions, such as bad weather (early snow storm dumping feet of snow). One guy in his 70's almost quit before the hunt started due to family health issues and most hunters were ready to quit by day 4 of a five day hunt. This was a bucket list hunt for the clients with most anticipating the hunt for over a decade and I could see everyone falling apart. Very interesting how common this is. Outfitters/ guides have their work cut out for them helping hunters mentally and physically!

[@CliffGray]

Thanks for the first hand story! Good luck on your future hunts. Thanks

[@supaSOLE58]

I did my first hunt this past year (solo) and related to everything he said sadly, but glad to know where I went wrong and how to prepare better this year. Appreciate this sir

[@CliffGray]

For sure man! Next season is a new season. Good luck out there!

[@konagolden4209]

Constant learning matters. We all start somewhere. We learn most by doing (you went on your 1st hunt), next by watching/listening to the more experienced (Cliff), and least in a classroom. You're doing all the right things, keep it up & good luck will come your way!

[@mmyers3970]

I did the same thing 5 yrs ago

[@redhawk449]

So much good info here. Sleep when you can. A few years ago I was catching a mid day nap under a spruce tree. When I awoke I didn't move but looked carefully around. Much to my surprise, up wind and ten feet to my left was a mountain lion casually walking by. I got a couple of photos of it before it bounded across the meadow into the timber. It only takes a moment to change everything. Even if it's not success in the hunt. Enjoy the opportunity to experience the out doors like no other time in your life. Look for those memories worth a lifetime. It will reduce some of the stresses of the hunt.

[@CliffGray]

That’s awesome man…. Lion was probably curious what in the world you were doing!

[@joefussy11]

This is life advise not just hunting! Great content. Love your work!!

[@CliffGray]

Thanks man! 👍

[@MiddleOutdoorsman]

Somehow your channel showed up on my youtube feed. Great stuff. The mental game is huge. Can't say enough about mental gymnastics. Last year I did 10 days solo on muzzy deer, and that was a learning experience in both deer, and myself. Most of what went on in my head nobody but my wife will ever know. I'll probably end up watching most of your videos over the summer. Never stop learning, and no experience is a waste as long as you learn something from it.

[@CliffGray]

10 days solo - Nice! when you are on those types of trips, you got to realize you are doing something that 99.00% won't ever experience. good stuff.

[@Bullets4Bucks]

I have hunted seriously ill more than most ppl have hunted healthy but I wish that upon no one.

[@thomastucker5998]

Lots of great info. I have been on several hunts in remote areas by myself and dealt with these issues not really knowing what was going on. But I powered through! Several of these hunts, I wasn’t planning on hunting alone but my buddies either quit early or couldn’t go for one reason or another. I just discovered your channel and look forward to more of videos. You provide honest hunting and life saving skills that I can relate to and use that I haven’t seen anywhere else. I believe we live in the same general area so maybe we will meet on the mountain one day.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks Thomas! Glad you have enjoyed the videos.

[@davidderr2662]

I am 62. Only 2 guided hunts. Your information for me pertains to when I go solo or a friend is along. I am guilty of going solo and rationalized quitting only to be very disappointed in myself when I pulled into my driveway and think/wish I was still back hunting. I knew I had cheated myself for something I waited all year/years to experience. Thank you. I will ask my hunting partner to watch this video in it's entirety. Thank you for putting a concept of avoiding trip failure.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks David - I hope it was helpful to you and will help on the next trip!

[@joshsmith3650]

Your diet video saved my butt last year. The year before I quit early because I got down and negative Nancy on myself. This is a great video I sent to two friends. They both told me they are quitting because of other friends getting lucky and tagging our early their first year. Luck helps but nothing will beat determination.

[@jasonscott5043]

The most important video I’ve ever watched in regard to my long duration western hunts. Hands down. More important than calling or strategy or gear. Those things can be learned and there’s a lot of flexibility and chance involved with those but if you aren’t aware of the content in this video you’ll surely be in the 90% of the hunter group that kill 10% of the elk, especially diy guys on public land.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks!

[@reterwilliger]

Good stuff Cliff! I know I have always found and preached with each hunt I've guided over the years not to burn my clients out the first day or two....instead start gradually and work to build momentum as the hunt goes to push harder as need be. Also, your point about it only takes a single moment to turn the hunt around is so true! Many, many opportunities are missed because hunters let their guard down instead of maintaining a positive, always ready mental mindset! I have always viewed that was a key responsibility of mine with guiding clients. Make the hunt fun and keep'em thinking positive!

[@CliffGray]

Thanks Bob! hope all is well

[@benf8487]

I drew a Kentucky archery elk tag and scouted every weekend for 4 weeks before the season. I didn't find any sign until right before the season. Just finding tracks stoked me up so much that I couldn't wait till opening day. I would recommend people take the small victories and stay positive. I ended up being successful because I stayed on it. Great advise! Just found your channel and enjoy the content.

[@blakerobinson6891]

Watched a few of your videos before coming across this one. This is probably the most important video anyone who’s planning a hunt for any species in an area or environment unknown. I am from south Louisiana below New Orleans and have been chasing Bears and elk the last 7 years. I have witnessed buddies and experienced this one multiple hunts. I would recommend anyone to watch this when planning and again on the travel to your hunt. Good luck out there folks and stay safe! Keep the content coming fella!

[@CliffGray]

Really appreciate it Blake! Thanks! Good luck this Fall

[@lawrencejchristie6193]

Tons of great information FROM REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE brought to the classroom - many thanks. Love emphasizing that hunts get “turned around in a second” aspect of being out in the woods - yes, luck is big. I think is was Mr. Jefferson who promoted the idea that - luck is when persistence meets opportunity. Again, thanks.

[@CliffGray]

Appreciate the kind words man! and yes... "luck is when persistence meets opportunity"!

[@daltonl8751]

I'm a veteran and always thought of myself as a strong willed person. Even still, I've rationalized quitting more than 1 hunt because of scenarios described here, and had no idea what was psychologically going on until this video. Thank you! I know I'll be much more effective for longer now that I can recognize the symptoms in myself and use your tips in limiting stress. Great stuff!

[@CliffGray]

👍

[@charlesbond4413]

I’m 75 and fly into the frank church to hunt mulies. I go through these stages myself. It might be easier to be by yourself. No one to bitch to. Easier also to just take one step, then another, then another. I don’t sleep well especially when it’s below freezing. But I do nap in the sun high on the mountain around noon. Glass, shut eyes, wake up refreshed a half hour later. Several years ago, I flew out early. My hIp pain was so bad I couldn’t go up or down even moderate grades, forget packing out a mulie in two trips. I spent one whole year doing PT so that wouldn’t be an issue again. It’s not, I felt like I was 65 again. Listening to your experience, I can see and understand my own issues with more clarity. I push through, but knowing the stages helps. I do enjoy your talks. They are like sitting around the campfire at night talking to friends.

[@CliffGray]

75 and still hunting the Frank! I hope I'm doing the same. Appreciate the comment Charles. Good luck in there this Fall!

[@charlesbond4413]

I will add that the reason I told the story about my hip was to express how hurt my feelings were to leave early. I pondered for a day whether to sit around camp for 5-6 days, or fly out and fly back in not knowing if my hip would be in shape enough. It wouldn’t have been as it took months. The thing I can start to identify with is how those hunters who leave, for what ever reason outside of a family emergency, must feel. It still bothers me that I couldn’t tough it out. I’m glad I left, but the pain of leaving was almost as great as the pain in my hip. I solved the hip pain through PT, that other feeling of giving up on the hunt remains. It is not about success, it is about hunting.

[@CliffGray]

@@charlesbond4413 well said 👍

[@marcusnorthagen9018]

One things that also helped me was to try and figure out what your hunt expectations are. For instance my first solo elk hunt I decided that if I found elk during my hunt I would consider it a success. Finding elk doesn’t seem like it would be such a big deal but I have talked to hunters that go years without seeing an elk. I also tried to make up for any lack of elk hunting experience with being in good physical condition. There’s nothing worse than finally finding elk and not being able to make it to them.

[@hieuhn99]

I did my first elk hunt last season also solo and man your message really brought me back. I felt all those emotions and witnessed other hunters going through them and met several people at both ends of the spectrum. I met the relaxed guy, seen the burned out guys, heard all those excuses. I went through most of those emotions too and quitting crossed my mind several times. But I was always able to reset and kept grinding. It's so difficult to stay positive when you dont see or hear anything for almost a week. I made so many mistakes but finally got it done on the last hour of the last day which was day twelve. I found out alot about myself and am super proud.

[@CliffGray]

You should be proud, man! What an accomplishment. Thanks for the comment.

[@zappiness]

This content is GOLD! Everything he says is spot on, recognize the symptoms adapt and overcome.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks!

[@az94bronco68]

Wow. Nailed it at the 14:00 min mark. About 2-3 days into every hunt I always get sad that I’m out there alone/with buddies vs being at home with my family. Now I know I just need to watch my blood sugar. 😂

[@mmyers3970]

Best hunting video I've ever watched. Wish I would have seen this 5 yrs ago before my first out of state hunt. I literally did everything you mentioned wrong.

[@CliffGray]

Matt, really appreciate the comment. Thanks. Good luck this Fall 👍

[@jonathonestrada3814]

I just got home from an archery mule deer hunt. Where I can honestly say I dealt with all these stressful emotions and I’ll admit I did come home a day early using the excuse that I needed to rest before going back to work. And of course thinking of my warm bed with my girl. Now stumbling across this video and reflecting on my time hunting I know what I could of done differently and how to be aware and prepared for next time. I would of never expected hunting to be such an emotional rollercoaster ride. Thank you for putting this out into the world for us noobs trying to navigate and learn this way of life.

[@erikjensen6503]

Great breakdown! I have found that failure to eat and hydrate are killers of motivation at all things hard. Sometimes you have to embrace the suck as they say! Thanks for sharing!

[@CliffGray]

for sure!

[@Bullets4Bucks]

Persistence pays off

[@tyb3938]

Never been on a guided hunt but I feel like it takes a couple days to get my legs under me, our camp is often just below 10k feet and altitude takes a little getting used to. I never feel stressed, elation is what I feel, we hunt as a family and having them with me makes it all the better.

[@bgulli7814]

"The moment" is truth beyond your imagination, awesome description.

[@gcoutdoors904]

The point u made about diving made a lot of sense. Been dealing with the same thing for 2 years with my climber. Just now getting comfortable. Hormones are powerful.

[@noahbrainard9468]

Thanks for your KZbin videos. I just finished my 5th elk hunt, and while I didn't take anything home I hit some good milestones. The first was finding their habitat on a map, and adding the variable or swirling thermal to the list of things to look for. That narrowed my search down from several square miles to just one area, maybe one square mile. Day one 3AM-12PM and close to 11 miles on foot through thick forest and deadfall. No elk sightings but my buddy and me pushed on and back to camp. we were planning on getting back around 9PM, but we took a detour and decided to check for activity on area choice 2, about 400 acres. Fresh activity, and we made a plan for day 2 hunt. Day 2 we hiked up for an afternoon hunt and set up in a small clearing on a wooded hillside overlooking the area we wanted to hunt. On the decent into that clearing I slipped on a rock and tweaked my left knee. Stretched it back out and felt ok so I kept hunting. We spend 3 hours glassing and saw nothing. We were ready to head back to camp for a hot meal but remembered the grind. We had to finish the hunt. Just after sunset a trophy bull sulked out of the forest on the opposite hill about 500 yards away. We weren't ready for that long of a shot, so we decided to move in closer. We ran out of daylight and called the day and went back to camp. Along the way we found out that our headlamp batteries were dead, including the new batteries we brought along. On the hike out I started feel pain in my left knee everytime I set my foot down. After a drive into town for batteries we returned to camp at 11 PM and were sleeping by 11:30. The anticipation of the next day proved to be a little much and 2:30 AM came too soon after a restless night. We got up anyway and started the hike back in at 3:30. My knee wasn't right and by 300 yards I was in major pain with a severe limp. Muscle aches and cramps and exhaustion can be overcome, but this was my physical limit, so I hobbled back to the car and called the trip. I came home with major disappointment and also a feeling of satisfaction. I found the elk, and started and finished each day. Maybe next Year!

[@CliffGray]

Great story Noah! good luck getting ready for next year's hunt. thanks

[@noahbrainard9468]

@@CliffGray Yes! much more physical training is in order.

[@philbow6374]

You are spot on, enjoy the experience, take away the small things most humans will never experience

[@CliffGray]

for sure!

[@jamiebaker1035]

In my younger days, I'd do 3 weeks of hunting/vacation solo trips out west. I'd drive to Wyoming, where I would antelope hunt on a ranch. I'd spend a day scouting and placing my ground blind prepping for that trip. On my way to Idaho to hunt Muley and Elk, I'd do a little see sighting. So I was breaking up the long drive out. Once I reached Idaho... I'd hunt for 5 to 7 days in the mountains but I would try to come into town twice during that time frame. Nothing like a hot meal and a shower to recharge the battery... After cleaning up, I'd hit the mountains again for another 5 to 7 days. After, the Elk part of the trip, I'd drive back to Wyoming and do the Antelope hunt. The good part was after 10 to 12 days of Elk hunting. The Antelopes weren't to scare of my blinds... I think having a down day during a long trip is key! The pressure to be successful often times becomes too great at times. Sometimes u have to learn to enjoy the other things that u can experience on a hunting trip of a lifetime for a lifetime!!

[@CliffGray]

For sure! Your setup/schedule sounds like a perfect deal

[@ChrisChoay]

"One Moment to change it all." I am glad you mentioned diving, as dive school for me in the MIL was the first time I ever thought about quitting anything serious. The saying that they engrained in us all on the pool deck or the dive wrecks is that "Once you quit, then Quitting becomes so easy." One of the best statement about quitting I heard in Ranger School was "Rangers, it is okay to think about quitting. Just don't do it this moment, do it tomorrow!" Thank you for Nerding it out, most importantly, for being real about the emotional roller coaster about hunting in CO and how to deal with it. Best wishes on your endeavors!

[@CliffGray]

👍👍👍thanks for the note man. Great stuff!

[@campsitez2355]

unfortunately "Ranger School" is letting the military offer them a rifle in .277 caliber which is wrong when consulting actual hunters of deer sized game. There exists .007 of an inch separating the new military cartridge from being a great military cartridge and that's the reality of the situation.

[@benjaminschuck755]

I'm glad I came across your channel, this particular subject was especially helpful. Thank you. I feel I'll be better at mitigating the stressful situations. Really good info I feel all hunters should be aware of.

[@CliffGray]

Glad the video was useful to you! thanks

[@gelbage]

Hell yea, Clay! You’re a legend.

[@lanecoffey1310]

Realistic expectations and concentration on enjoying every moment,learning what one can.... the filling of your tag is the bonus! If you have a great time, experience and gain knowledge.... the hunt is a success

[@billbertagnoli4226]

Damn Chris. That was so unexpected. Way deeper than Most go. I was a teacher and Coach for almost 40 years and My own observation is the same As yours. The trick is being able To structure your activity so that You can " teach" your client at the Right time in the right way. They Get it but they don't know you're Leading and setting them the up for Their own "AhA" moments. You Are a really smart guy. I'm sure Your more enlightened client Appreciated that.

[@coffeehunter8742]

It's "Cliff".

[@billbertagnoli4226]

@@coffeehunter8742 my bad 😞

[@ericanonymous7859]

You're a smart guy, Cliff. I like how you analyze every aspect of elk hunting. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@CliffGray]

👍

[@user-rk7kg9ik2c]

These mental issues are paramount! I've experienced everything Cliff spoke to, and they certainly can be debilitating. I'm so glad to know I'm not the only one to get these feelings. I'd bet that the bulk of guys who are unsuccessful let these 'suck' mentality problems get the best of them. It's happened to me. Pure gold Cliff. Thanks!

[@CliffGray]

Thanks!

[@greghertzberg6220]

I have always preached,” get in the best possible shape preseason to- help confidence and when you miss or screwup you are not also exhausted which lends itself to complete shutdown.

[@konagolden4209]

The flow chart, the emotion, the hormones, being positive, people quitting or looking for "The Moment", are all true.... in every challenging endeavor, not just mountain hunting. Cliff, what you describe is a transferable skill that can lead to success in anything you choose to tackle. One thing I would add, to help reduce the stress level, physical preparation is as important as the mental prep is.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks! Agreed, I do think it can be applied to other challenges. Appreciate the support!

[@FATBIKEHUNTER]

Great stuff Cliff! Hunting solo makes it so easy to stress and find excuses to go home after 48 hours. My ZOLEO has helped a lot with this because I can talk with my boys and wife during the day and night. They love to hear about the close calls and the harvests. I am slowly watching your videos in anticipation for Sept. and the elk woods of Central Washington.

[@CliffGray]

Awesome! Glad you are finding the videos helpful. I think you bring up a great point - inreaches, zoleos can be a good way for daily checkins- relieves stress for some folks… as long as they don’t let the contact/texts take over! But yeah, I’m like you, I use an Inreach to touch base, which is nice with kids/family. Thanks

[@SpearingBow-Man]

Cliff that was some high level stuff. Its easy to find countless videos on basics but this is the hard won information that I love hearing. As a bow hunter here in Colorado and freediver spearfisherman this resonated with my experience on many levels. Will be sharing it with my fellow hunting buddies. Thanks for the high quality content. Press on with the nerd-dom. Reply

[@CliffGray]

haha! thanks! I really appreciate the feedback. nerd-dom forward!

[@johnoltrogge6333]

Totally makes sense and another tool in our tool box. Thanks for the information.

[@CliffGray]

You bet!

[@micahtetreault855]

Dude, I needed this. I'm leaving soon for a diy otc late season solo hunt. Downloaded for nightly motivation.

[@NAubc]

When I sit in the truck and talk to myself for 31 minutes it’s “sir keep your hands where I can see them, step out of your car, and put your pants on”.

[@CliffGray]

Ha!

[@jamesjahoda1613]

"Roughing it in a wall tent". Yeah, we sleep on the ground! Uphill! ( No really, that's kinda funny.) Last November a young cousin forgot his sleeping bag. He wore his bibs, wrapped in tarps in an unheated tent at 15F. Woke up cheerful. I was so proud of him.

[@frankbowne4667]

Brilliant!! I will definitely use this!

[@McGrambo2]

I’m a a solo hunter and I have to say, I agree with everything you’ve said. Being solo it’s crazy easy to get in your own head. When I start thinking about why am I torturing myself cold and alone in the wilderness, I’ll go through what I’ve leaned on the hunt. It’s a nice distraction to fan the flame a little more. Also, regarding expectations, don’t plan on a hunt being like what’s seen on you tube or tv. Thinking you’re going to have the same hunt is an amazing way to disappoint yourself.

[@CliffGray]

I hear ya. Thanks for the comment!

[@DustinApple]

as a 30yr midwest bowhunter, i know ive had it easy. As a first time DIY ELK hunter I know this is the greatest phycological breakdown of the challenges that lay ahead. im already stressed buying gear, planning logistical things, & OnX hunting landmarks. I tournament fish with a bowfishing team & ive seen teammates & myself hit the psychological obstacles you speak of almost every week spent scouting. Looking forward I have to "STAY ENGAUGED" no matter what. i know physically im not prepared witch triples the importance of my mental capacity. G.I. JOE- "And Knowing is half the battle" ...Thank you Cliff

[@CliffGray]

Good luck man! 👍

[@Jondantic]

Love the video and your spot on with this assessment of being in the outdoors with people you don’t have experience with doing this kind of activity with. I don’t even hunt but I go backcountry fishing and will only do it with a few experienced friends who know the drill as I have had some very enthusiastic newbie’s go belly up in dramatic fashion. Thanks for explaining this psychological phenomenon so thoroughly

[@CliffGray]

Thanks for the positive feedback on the video! glad to hear you can relate in the context of your fishing adventures.

[@kennethhoffman2521]

That’s great advice, I can see see some of the elements mentioned in my memory. Great perspective for next time out.

[@striderwolf687]

Glad I watched this vid prior to this CO Elk season! We went up on the flattops mid second season and were hammered with snow, bad weather gusting wind, sleet and ice forming on us while trying to hunt…. Within the first 2 hours we actually got stuck in snow moving over for hunters coming down who didn’t see us. Using Cliff’s thoughts from this vid and the vid on why 5% of hunters kill 95% of elk, we made it and stayed out (safely) those 5 days with constant crappy weather and setbacks. We got out everyday! We didn’t get anything and ended up hunting back at 8000 feet vs. 10000ft+, but we learned a ton, made memories and controlled what we could. Animals were bedded down, likely like us and everyone coming down the mountain! On one day with gust of 30-50, temps at 25 and snow/sleet/rain I stayed out on a ridge in the morning the first half of the day by pacing glassing points and mini benchmark goals of just getting to the next little clearing when fog/clouds cleared. Was covered in ice by noon, but proved this stuff works and if something had moved or come down, I would have been there. Good stuff Cliff! Keep it up!

[@CliffGray]

Awesome man! sometimes, given the conditions, just powering through is a huge accomplishment! sounds rough

[@Bullets4Bucks]

Legit health issues for me have been a huge f pain in my ass and ruined hunts but I keep trying

[@MPrybil]

Two things flatlanders need to realize in the mountains is you need to stay hydrated! Drink water before you are thirsty and apply sunscreen. The altitude will dehydrate you and burn you.

[@minervandusen324]

Cliff. I am loving all of your content. I appreciate all of the wisdom you are dropping. You are a mountain Jedi Bro.😊

[@CliffGray]

Haha thanks man!

[@joshlaubach8166]

Been on numerous guided hunts and there is always at least one cry baby whiner or someone who can’t get along with others. I tagged out numerous times on the last seconds of light on the last day. Those hard hunts are my most rewarding and the ones I remember. I have the most respect for guides and I love learning from them. My favorite are horseback Wyoming Thorofare elk hunts.

[@TheOffGridHunter]

The reason why CEO’s who chase a pencil around a desk all day and can endure a 10 day hunt full of hardships is because of mental fortitude. The executives I know are the most tenacious people I know and doing something hard makes them more determined. On the flip side I have hunted with a lot of tough blue collar guys that you would think should be able to do it but mentally they are weak and quit after things get hard. Physically they might be in great shape but want to get home as soon as they can. 99% of these hard wilderness hunts are mental fortitude

[@jefferywilliams7687]

This is spot on! I was on an Elk Hunt (solo) that seemed like everything was going wrong. Several tough and challenging unsuccessful stalks. Then came a dust storm with hurricane force winds. Morning of last day started a stalk on a bull and was about to get into position to shoot and look up and here comes a herd of Angus Cows right into the middle of the elk. Last evening head to a waterhole in a canyon a couple of miles off forest service road. I ended up killing a 6X6 bull that scored about 300. Take away, it would have been so easy to quit. Bottom line perseverance and a lot of hard work and adjustments paid off.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks for the comment man! Great story and congrats on the bull 👍

[@bigburdi]

This was amazing, what a fantastic analysis. I had an experience just like the tap out described and would have gone home early on an elk hunt empty handed if it wasn't for last minute sheer dumb luck. I'll keep all these things in mind for the next adventure, thank you so much!

[@CliffGray]

Hey man, nothing wrong with a bit of luck! Does an elk hunt good. 👍

[@Matt-dj5gm]

Wow! Great video! I took my 16-year-old daughter on her first hunt last year, a local deer hunt. She hunted for only two days and then "had" other "important" things to do. Now I know why. She is excited to go hunting again, and we are planning her first elk hunt this fall. I already know that what I learned from your video will make a huge difference on that hunt. Many thanks, Cliff!

[@CliffGray]

Good deal Matt! Good luck this Fall. Thanks

[@applejack815]

Top notch topic. Thank you. Excellent insights

[@CliffGray]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@charlieschmitz759]

Watched this video multiple times before my elk hunt. Filled my tag on day 7 and it’s amazing how accurate this video was for me. (I am definitely high stress)

[@CliffGray]

Good to know some of this stuff was relatable to on your trip. I'm high stress also... I still deal with a lot of these things on trips. Thanks for the comment Charlie.

[@dayworkingdavis6619]

I think this video is spot on!! the only thing I think that needs to be mentioned is hydration… being dehydrated will create all these issues without hydration you cannot digest the food you eat and it will wreck your ability to sleep. once you get dehydrated it’s extremely hard to get rehydrated while on a physically demanding hunt… just wanted to add that. Great video!

[@CliffGray]

Great additional tip! Thanks

[@cheifhughw9349]

Man I needed to hear this. I'm guilty of having the many of the mindsets he described.

[@richsmith8254]

Wish I knew this yrs ago, Cliff, please keep making videos

[@thomaschalupa1042]

This is one of the best how-to hunting vids I've ever watched

[@CliffGray]

Huge compliment man! really appreciate it. Thanks

[@ericomfg]

This was actually insanely interesting .. did not expect a crash course on hormones lol

[@jeffhoward9192]

Great information that can be applied to other pursuits such as fishing, hiking, etc. I notice that I become discouraged from having unrealistic expectations, like thinking this is going to be easy, and over focusing on obtaining the quarry. Thank you.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks Jeff!

[@jasonjohn1978]

Definitely needed to hear this. Great video. Last season I encountered so many negative variables that it finally caught up with me on the sixth day and got me off the mountain. And I’ve regretted it everyday since. I feel like a little bitch for letting my own mind talk me into leaving two days early and not exhausting all my opportunities. I made a ton of mistakes. And I didn’t adapt and change my strategy to reach my goals when dealing with all the variables a solo backcountry hunt can throw at you. It was a hard lesson to learn. Somehow this year though, I drew an awesome tag with zero points. So I’ll be looking for redemption and to right all my wrongs of last season. Cliff, you’re a huge asset to the hunting community and a wealth of knowledge to any hunter. Thank you for putting all your knowledge and experience on KZbin for all to hear and see for free. This kind of info is priceless.

[@CliffGray]

Hey Jason really appreciate the positive feedback and comment. Good luck on your trip this coming Fall! thanks

[@emanarfarm3736]

Yes you are absolutely right about the different dynamics of individual hunters, although your terminology is a bit over my head, but, I know what you mean. The symptoms you describe are spot on. I only had 3 hunters flat quit in all the years guiding. One drove his own car to the end of the road camp, so he just rode out of hunting camp, and drove home. The other two were brothers, who were well known in the western world, and lucky for them, I had been suffering with a sinus infection, last hunt of the year, deep snow, and they whined for 2 or 3 days before I finally packed em out, and drove them to Kalispell. It worked out for me, as I was able to get some antibiotics before heading back up.

[@CliffGray]

I hear ya - We rarely had hunters full blown quit, similar to your experience. However, we had a lot of them mentally quit - slack off of hunting, sleep in, etc... Thanks for the comment!

[@michaelstice261]

I’ve been hunting my entire life of 65 years and having mini mini hunting companions and been into an unreal country with my own personal pack string I can relate to a lot of what you talked about it myself at first and in my companions a lot after that that a good deal of the hunters try to prioritize The hunt on the success of the harvest and not paste them selves and learn from the experience and take the harvest as a bonus even though sometimes the expense is high and the expectations are high it’s like you said that one moment in time can make the pay off and lasting memories

[@CliffGray]

👍

[@benjoseph6561]

another great video man; thanks for your knowledge

[@CliffGray]

thanks for watching. appreciate the support!

[@wesclaymore]

Best video/advice Iv ever seen on them interwebs. Period.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks man!

[@Nicoli-bg8lp]

Great video and advice, been hunting for 5 years close to your area and recognize everthing you mentioned. Makes a lot of sense! Will help me and hopefully our crew. Thanks!!

[@chancearmand2247]

Thank you for taking the time to nerd out for us man. Your videos are super informative and theres not many people out there willing to break it all down. Trying to learn how hunt on my own since i dont have family who does. Just got stationed in ND so I have a more reasonable drive to states where i can dive deep into all this. Definitely gonna be using your advice across all your videos.

[@CliffGray]

Really glad the videos are helpful to you Chance. Awesome that you are getting into hunting. Good luck this Fall!

[@josephmarucci3528]

Great lesson that applies to all teaching while doing.

[@trophyhilll]

Love your content Cliff! Thanks for sharing from experience! Best mountain hunt advice I’ve heard to date! Great stuff

[@CliffGray]

appreciate the support! glad the videos have been helpful

[@ericinnis]

This is really interesting! I think I’ll be coming back to this video.

[@billjames3148]

WOW, well you covered my last 3 solo elk hunts. Take my rifle for a walk kinda trip. My take from you, is the (hunt)/ the moment. then FOOD, and Sleep. I hit the 48 hr wall, Stopped, ate a meal,Nap for 3hrs walk back to camp ate some more and went to sleep. Next day was 100% better. Get into shape, lighten the gear you take, and slowly walk and look around. Take your time, My son said one time, it's hunting not getting. Thanks Cliff.

[@CliffGray]

Great comment… yes sometimes a reset during a hunt works well. Thanks Bill!

[@therealaustinbrown2712]

Thanks man, you really help me out and i appreciate that!!

[@alanbates5596]

Good breakdown of the breakdowns, Dehyration happens at twice rate the up where you go

[@TheOffGridHunter]

The best advice I give guys is get comfortable being uncomfortable

[@NAubc]

Extremely insightful video. Thanks for sharing. Loved your bars, now love your videos too.

[@CliffGray]

Bwhaha good deal!

[@curtisgore1611]

I just returned from Colorado solo hunt and I experienced all of this. I replayed this info over and over in my head while there and still left a day early. Couldn't keep the negative thoughts and emotions. And I new it while it was happening. Go figure

[@socalhuntinglandairwater9146]

I am a new land hunter. I have a lot of experience Spearfishing. Its very interesting to hear this video. I’ve had the same stress symptoms learning to spearfish. It probably took me over 10 dives to get comfortable in the water. Now that I’m learning how to hunt on land. I’m going through the same stress symptoms during just the scouting phase. I haven’t even hit “season” yet. But I’ll definitely take this into consideration. Good looking out on this video!

[@CliffGray]

Good luck man! Im still an amateur spearfisherman but look forward to going more often. 👍

[@socalhuntinglandairwater9146]

@@CliffGray If you're ever in Los Angeles you are more than welcome to come out with our spearfishing team. We know all the local hot spots. It would be a dope video.

[@CliffGray]

@@socalhuntinglandairwater9146 I'll take you up on that! I subscribe to your channel. Look forward to seeing your future videos. Thanks man!

[@jacobbaldwin9707]

Earned a subscribe with this video, sir. Outstanding.

[@sheerwillsurvival2064]

Great on target as always 👊🏻 people just get tired of suffering and just give up

[@mitchellhelling4379]

As a new hunter, but an endurance athlete, this reminds me of why people quit tough races or other multi-day efforts. Sometimes races are won by those that take the best care of themselves rather than the "fastest" athlete. Wars of attrition. Sense of humor is a great sign. I bet guiding is one tough job, especially dealing with this aspect of clients.

[@CliffGray]

For sure! lots of similarities.

[@mudslide13]

This high stress scenario has been happening to me for years cars and I had no idea what was actually happening until watching this. Thank you for the tips!

[@CliffGray]

Glad it helped. Good luck this coming Fall! thanks

[@dalewalters357]

Wise words!! Well done. Good advice for life!

[@CliffGray]

Thank you!

[@stevehardwick1578]

Another factor is that many hunters are from areas where they see game every time out and on every video they watch. I'm from far northern Maine and can go days or weeks without seeing a deer in the woods, it can be discouraging but being accustomed to that, I think would help me on a western hunt.

[@CliffGray]

great point Steve

[@markhatfield5621]

I have experienced some of this. Also, there is a television 'reality' show called 'Alone' where people have to survive in the woods on their own. They display many of the same things and quit for the same reasons.

[@HippyDanimal]

Great information Cliff. Really appreciate all of your insight. I could just TELL you were an ab diver when I first saw you. I grew up diving Norcal and completely agree with what you said. Have had many friends lose their shit in the ocean. A lot of hunting skills carry over with diving. It is similar to hunting on land, but also WAY different. Sure miss ab diving. If you are ever in this area again LMK. We could go do some urchin removal and spear fishing.

[@CliffGray]

Thanks Dan! The Ab deal is really sad. I loved diving for them - once I got comfortable. Still very much enjoy diving, spearing, etc... mostly in warm water now, but I would love to go back up there and spear and dive for urchin. I remember all those little coves. I remember diving a lot around Fort Bragg. Looking for lincod down in that dark water! Good memories. Challenging... but tons of fun.

[@observed00]

The hardest thing I've ever done was my 20 day bison hunt on the kaibab; solo, 4 hours of sleep a night, hiking miles a day in darkness, nearly every daylight hour spent in a blind with a narrow view. The experience included stress, but also a sort of insanity, like you might experience in solitary confinement. I didn't get an opportunity to release an arrow, but I drew twice and was yards from big bulls on two occasions. My hair turned gray on this hunt, and I was truly miserable most of the time. Ten other hunters had the same tag. All but me and one other quit. He got his on the 19th day. I would do it again.

[@CliffGray]

Wow! That sounds like a grind. Way to to get through it.

[@mikedag1176]

My first hunting trip my Dad took me on a January morning in 1972 to Ely,Vermont. Cold.cold.COLD... But after a hearty breakfast thermos full of black coffee..we hit the trail... I WAS extremely excited to bag my first buck with my .308 Winchester.. 7 hours later I DID EXACTLY THAT.. MY 15 YEAR OLD ASS WAS FROZEN BY THEN...BUT I kept that shit to myself and toughed it out... I had a buck to BAG. NEVER QUIT, NEVER SAY I CAN'T....

[@whiteyfisk9769]

Jeezus...ive always done very well hunting. Never realized i was the stressed out but super focused hunter until right now. Thanks alot for existential crisis haha

[@CliffGray]

Bwhaha no prob