13 experts tips for hunting trophy elk, from fitness to scouting to calling

#9  Rely on your eyes and ears

While walking and calling to locate elk, occasionally stand still for extended periods to quietly scan your surroundings with binoculars and listen. If there are no signs of elk, move forward a few more metres and repeat the process.

When looking for elk in the timber, don’t expect to see an entire animal. Instead, watch for the flick of an ear or the glint of an antler. Also look for an elk’s head or back, which will stand out as a horizontal form in the vertical environment of the forest. Sometimes, a mere flash of movement will give away an elk walking through the brush. Be aware that if you spot one elk, there are likely more nearby.

Elk are noisy when they walk, so listen for the sound of breaking branches. They’ll also often chirp and mew as they move along; occasionally, a bull may even bugle. Once you hear elk, you have three choices: sit tight and let them give themselves away, call to them, or go after them

#10  Don’t stop hunting

Sitting around camp and enjoying a hot midday meal might sound appealing, but that will definitely reduce your chances of filling a tag. For the best odds, hunt all day long. Don’t be afraid to walk in and out of your hunting location in the dark, putting you exactly where you want to be when the sun rises and sets. This is when knowing your hunting area and getting off the beaten path really shines.

To stay energized, bring along a lunch, some snacks and a water bottle if the natural water sources are unsafe (see #11). Store your food in sealable plastic bags, which won’t make noise when crumpled up in your backpack. In case of inclement weather, also pack raingear, some extra socks and an additional layer or two of clothing.