Elk Hunting: My First 50 Years

Charlie Butz, Jr. started his hunting journey at the age of 12 when he headed out into the fields with family chasing pheasants and ducks. By age 14, Charlie’s passion for the outdoors grew as he headed out with his own shotgun this time – a single shot 16-gauge. His ability to use his “16” with slugs for deer and 6-shot for birds made him a force to be reckoned with. It wasn’t long before he added a 243 Remington to his arsenal, which many a whitetail and mule deer would succumb to over the years. It wasn’t until 1967 that Charlie experienced elk hunting for the first time. Over the next 50 years, he stayed loyal to his Browning semi-auto shotguns, bringing down hundreds of upland birds and waterfowl.

Born and raised in the Bismarck, North Dakota area, Charlie didn’t have much opportunity to hunt elk. His first experiences left him humbled by the majestic and mighty Wapiti. A fast friendship with famed hunter, Bob McManus changed all that. An outing with Bob started a 50-year tradition that would consume Charlie’s passion for the outdoors, pursuing the mighty elk. Later, it was the thrill of time spent with friends and family while exploring the majestic Rocky Mountains with this tremendous animal that proved more valuable than the hunt and kill.

Through the years, Charlie has learned every inch of wilderness, downed trees, and the main water source where “Greybeard Camp” resides for 10 days during the season. Charlie’s nickname, “The Legend,” is a testimony to his creditability, passion, the respect other hunters have for him, and love for the elk.

In 2015, a lifetime of knowledge and dedication landed Charlie one of the largest bulls harvested in the area, scoring in the 360s. It is now displayed beautifully at his home. With this book, you have access to Charlie’s amazing legacy, tips, recipes, and other resources that made him one the country’s finest hunters.