Elk Hunting Tips

Article Highlights

• Elk are larger than deer and possess their own mating calls and annual rituals.
• Timing is essential to elk hunting.
• Hunters must become experts in the calls of the elk to have a successful hunt.

Dedicated hunters consider elk hunting to be one of the most rewarding and unique experiences around. Elk are larger than deer and possess their own mating calls and annual rituals. Elk can be aggressive towards a perceived threat or they can be quite docile. Avid elk hunters often have exciting stories of particular elk hunting trips, from close calls to surprise attacks. The male elk, called a bull, can weigh 700 to 800 pounds; so, their size alone can create excitement in elk hunting. Elk are also intelligent and aware of their surroundings, so elk hunting requires skill and patience to be successful.

In order for elk hunting to be successful, several factors come into play. Timing is one of those factors. The best elk hunting occurs during the fall when the elk are mating. In addition to seasonal factors for elk hunting, avid hunters also consider the time of day. At certain times throughout the day the elk are more active than other times. One additional factor, temperature, can also play into successful elk hunting. Those new to elk hunting should partake in a guided excursion until they learn the subtle factors associated with the sport. In addition, a guide will be able to direct hunters the best locations to ensure a successful hunt, as well as give welcome tips regarding elk hunting.

During mating season, bull elks bugle to attract the females, called cows, and to call other bulls to a spar. Consequently, hunters have learned how to bugle to attract the males into range. Elk hunting requires a special instrument for the bugle to be effective. Before utilizing the call, study the manual or other audio recordings. Only if the call is used properly will it be effective while elk hunting.

Cows also have their special mating calls to attract the bulls. Thus, in elk hunting, hunters can mimic the cows' calls to lure the bull into shooting range. Again, the call of the cow must be well rehearsed and done properly or else it will not work. If the hunter does not vocalize the call enough or vocalizes too much, the bull will not be lured. Practice, good technique, and thorough education is the only way to successfully recreate the calls of the elk for elk hunting.

For a great thrill and a special challenge, elk hunting may be the perfect option. The elk meat is also quite tasty too. The elk hunting tips should help you have a successful hunt and a lot of fun in the process.