1. Get to know the area you’re hunting in. Elk like thick cover and cooler temperatures.
2. Elk preserve calories and limit the burning of fat reserves. Winter is critical for them. If all the reserves are burned, they will die. Look for cover that is closer to food sources.
3. Look for long ridges with multiple lanes coming in and out. The main ridge is typically a great crossing point for elk.
4. The top 1/3 of a ridge usually holds the most elk.
5. Look for fresh tracks and fresh droppings. If you find those, then there are elk nearby.
6. Learn these 3 elk calls: a simple cow call, a simple location bugle, and a very effective challenge bugle.
7. Work with the wind. If an elk smells you, then game over. No amount of scent eliminator will help if the wind is blowing directly an elks way.
8. Be in good physical condition. If you can’t climb up a ridge or around the side of a mountain, then you won’t find any elk.
9. During full moon, a lot of action will occur at night including feeding and rut action.
10. Look up all the elk hunting laws and regulations to make sure you are following the law.
11. A bugle call usually only works during the rut season when one male wants to fight another.
12. Mother Nature changes fast. Even if you have previously hunted the area, you should scout the area again before you plan on hunting.
13. Make sure you have proper shot placement. The elk should be standing broadside when you are ready to take the shot. Puncturing both lungs allows for a much quicker death.
14. If you are new to elk hunting, it might be in your best interest to get a guide who has experience in elk hunting.
