Posted by Elk hunting can be a challenge that tests you physically and mentally, but the reward of hunting one of the country’s majestic game animals and its delicious meat makes it all worthwhile. When Elk hunting, you will likely face physical, mental, and logistic challenges, which adds a level of excitement to Elk hunting. The experience is thrilling, making you want to come and try again. Whether you are experienced or planning your first Elk hunt, this guide can help you prepare for a successful Elk hunting.
Have the proper gear and equipment
Since Elk hunting locations are usually mountainous with unpredictable weather, you need to have the right gear. Proper clothing and equipment can make a difference in your hunting mission. Ensure the clothes and boots are comfortable for the weather and for walking long distances on backcountry terrain.
The backcountry Elk hunting gear list will depend on your hunt. Essential gears include boots, a bow and rifle, and binoculars. Get camouflage gear that allows you to stay hidden and undetected so you can blend in well with the terrain.
The most important thing is to ensure you are comfortable and appropriately dressed for the Elk hunting trip. Your dressing should depend on how cold or warm the weather is when hunting. Sometimes weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for every situation by getting the best gear.
Scout the area you will be hunting
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Elks live in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. It’s always a good idea to get to know the area you’ll be hunting the Elk. Before the hunting trip:
Survey the place you’ll be out hunting.
Look at the topography maps and Google map views. If you can, use the summer months to visit the hunting area before going on a hunting trip in the fall.
Study site maps to get a better idea of the terrain and where you expect to find the bulls.
For example, try to identify areas where the Elks are likely to move. If you’re using an elk hunting guide, you can gather much information about the site you will be hunting, making your trip a success.
Also, know the wind direction on the day of hunting. The rule of thumb is always to obey the wind when Elk hunting. Sometimes having an outfitter to guide you will help make the Elk hunting trip a success. Their job is to get you to a place where you can see and take an Elk while ensuring you aren’t too tired.
Practice your calls
Calling and stalking a bull are essential steps in an Elk hunt. If you call an animal and get a response, quickly determine where the answer came from. Stalk the animal to get as close as possible while remaining undetected. Some of the different elk calls include a bungle, standard cow call, excited cow call, and soft chirps or mews.
However, you don’t have to be a great Elk caller to succeed in your hunting mission. Learning when to use the different calling tactics is more important than making them sound perfect. For example, learn how to move close to a bull before using the various calls to magnify its effectiveness. You can also find a reliable Elk caller, a tool to help you call in your Elk. These top-of-the-line Elk callers can help you successfully call in on your animal.
Get good glasses
Backcountry hunting can be exhausting for anyone. Whether hunting alone or with a guide, you need good quality glasses to stalk and follow the anima. When tracking an Elk, you won’t be able to get close without spooking them off. Therefore, you need reliable binoculars to see the animal from afar.
Get quality glasses that provide exceptional clarity and are waterproof and fog-proof. Quality binoculars are one of the essential pieces of equipment to have for your Elk hunting mission. They can save you from a lot of walking and help spot a bull from far away.
You will enjoy your Elk hunting mission if you bring 8x or 10x binoculars. Your rifle scope should also be good to go.
Be in good shape
Elk hunting involves walking and hiking through different terrain. You must be in good shape to make your hunting experience more enjoyable. Getting in shape is especially important if you’re from low-elevation areas to hunt in higher-elevation areas. For example, if you’re coming to hunt Elks in Colorado, be aware of the elevation as you may need to adjust to the altitude.
Make sure you are in good shape before the hunt by getting into a workout routine involving cardio. For example, try hiking in the woods to stimulate your heart conditions and do cardio in full gear. Also, practice handling your firearm and bow with an elevated heart rate to be in good shape for your hunting exhibition.
You can be the best Elk caller or archer in the world, but if you can’t get to the Elk, it won’t help. Elks live in a rough country with mountainous terrains. So, you should be able to cover more ground looking for them. Your odds of succeeding in Elk hunting depend on being in better shape. Make sure your body is up to the challenge before you get out on the hunt.
Bottom line
Elk hunting can be physically demanding and equally fun. For many hunters, the experience is thrilling, which is why people travel from all over the country seeking the challenge of hunting big game animals. Although Elk hunting is frustrating, it can be successful and enjoyable if you have the right hunting guide. This article has provided some great tips to help you experience hunting success.