Western big game hunts are daydreams for many hunters back east. But every year, someone actually draws the various tags that are offered in western states for elk, mule deer and antelope drawings. (Lynn Burkhead photo)
By Lynn Burkhead, OutdoorChannel.com
Interested in living your own Western big game hunting dreams? Then know that such dreams actually start and finish with the first step of acquiring a valid tag for the species you want to hunt.
In my early days, I knew little about the process of researching units and their draw odds, applying for tags in various state drawings and what to do if I actually drew.
But over time, I learned the ropes and acquired a garage full of lightweight camping equipment and hunting gear helping me turn dreams into adventures.
Along the way I asked questions and listened to the hard-earned advice of such Western big game hunters as Jim Welles of New Mexico, Mike Barron and Orvie...