The Dos and Don'ts of Elk Hunting

Elk hunting can be immensely rewarding, but it can quickly turn frustrating and, at times, dangerous if you don't know what you are doing. If you are a newbie, here are some dos and don'ts you should consider during your hunting trip:

Top Dos of Hunting Elk

Here are some elk hunting dos you should keep in mind before you head out:

Do Change Your Strategy

Most hunters prefer to keep their hunting grounds the same and are willing to spend hours waiting for a bull. Finding a new location may be time-consuming, but a new strategy is likely to pay off. You cannot force the herd to do what you want or head to your location no matter how long you wait.

You may not have to go out of your way to find them. Just change your elevation or move camp to the other side of the hunting grounds. Remain mobile, and you will eventually find what you are looking for.

Do Use Bugles

If you are searching for bulls only, you may have better luck luring them away from their herd by using a bugle. The males only think of mating and fighting during hunting season, and the bachelors are focused on finding a lone female they can mount without getting the stuffing beaten out of them.

Feed off those tendencies and instincts by using a bugle to imitate a bull while hunting for elk. Use female calls to attract lone bulls who may try to try their luck. Large bulls that already have a herd will be reluctant to leave for a lone female, but they will take a bull elk call as a threat.

Top Don’ts of Elk Hunting

Here are some common elk hunting mistakes you should avoid to ensure a fruitful experience:

Don’t Hesitate to Use an Additional Round

If a bull is still standing after you have shot it and is about to flee, fire another round to ensure it cannot back up again. Elk are extremely tough and strong. It may not even know it’s hit and may run. If you don’t want to track it for miles, follow the initial shot with another one if the animal is still on its feet.

Don’t Leave Too Soon

If you are chasing a bull elk that is bugling at you, don't get intimidated and end the chase. He could be heading to his herd or alerting them to your presence rather than trying to scare you away. Get the elk to sound off frequently as you follow silently behind using elk calls. And if he hides, wait for him to emerge, which he will do to see where you are.

Book a Hunting Cabin at Rustic Rim Hideaway

Sitgreaves National Forest, which happens to be our backyard, is also a hotspot for bull elk and their herds. Book a hunting cabin at Rustic Rim Hideaway to make your trip memorable and enjoyable. We have all the amenities of home and even a barbecue grill you can use to cook your kill. Contact us today!