UPDATE: Haul Road hunt conditions

[Erik in AK]

Some guys from work just returned from a successful hunt up north. The boys went 4 for 4 on decent velvet bulls by keying on established river crossings.

--They did not see a caribou until just north of Pump 2 (Franklin Bluff's area)
--The weather was warm and clear but hey the weather is a crap shoot up there so be prepared for hot and snow.
--The "Sag" (Sag-a-van-nirk-tock) River is very low and clear this year, and thigh deep in many spots so bring chest waders (to be safe) if you intend to cross.
--The sea-run Arctic Char are in so fishing rods are worth adding to your gear.

Glassing the far bank (east side) carefully will reveal which gullys the caribou are using this year to get down to the river. If you can get across, those more heavily used gullys make grate ambush spots.

Remender to you first timers: if you get a group coming your way be patient...the biggest bulls in a group usually bring up the rear

 

[Erik in AK]

Update for 26 August:
It snowed Thursday night (.5") and is snowing as I type (12pm Fri).

Most of the action is still around Pump Station 2 but I did see some decent bulls in the vicinity of the Kuparuk (Koo-Par-Ruck) River. I also saw some bou near the Sag River Highway Dept barn. In the event communication with the world becomes critical--you should get cell coverage in Deadhorse and there's a public phone at Sag River (in the office next to the gas pumps) but DO NOT park inside the fenced area and don't ask to buy gas, its for the DOT vehicles. You can get gas in DH (about $3.19 gal)

 

[BW]

Say Erik,

You gonna be in Deadhorse for awhile? I go back up Thursday. Perhaps we can meet after work one of these days?

 

[Erik in AK]

Sorry Brian,
I won't get up to Pump 1 unless for a manning assist. However if you ever get down to 3 we may beable to meet. PS-3 is the top of my north patrol

Erik