Elk Hunting Information

The bugle of a bull elk on a cool frosty autumn morning is what elk hunters dream about.  There is something about elk that bring out the best in a hunter.   Elk meat is both palatable and healthy.  Elk also inhabit spectacular Rocky Mountain landscapes.  The dream like image of a canvas wall tent with a warm fire inside at a high country elk camp is burned in the minds of most elk hunters.  Elk hunting is fast becoming the most popular big game hunt in the west.

Elk Behavior and Ecology for the Hunter

Elk are widely distributed throughout the western United States and frequently occur on public land.  The elk breeding season, or rut, begins earlier than deer and typically peaks around late September.  It is during this period that bulls are most vulnerable to hunters.  Most districts in the west allow elk hunting during the rut using only archery as a means of take.  There are a few areas in the west, like the wilderness areas of northwest Montana, that allow early backcountry hunts during the rut but access is by foot or horseback only.

Do It Yourself (DIY) Public Land Elk Hunts

The western United States abounds with accessible public lands that are open to hunting.  There are many elk deer hunting options for the DIY elk hunter on these western public lands.  The first step is to read up on public land elk hunting and a great first step is to get a copy of Bugle magazine, the journal of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.  Bugle often features DIY public land elk hunting and they are still considered the authority on western elk hunting on public lands.  Prospective hunters should also purchase United States Forest Service travel maps to learn about open roads, trails and campgrounds that can be utilized during the hunt. 

Many State Fish and Game Department websites offer hunt planning information, elk hunting district information and elk hunter success rates by district for the DIY hunter.  Be sure to take advantage of the information provided by these free agency websites.

Guided Elk Hunts

There are many experienced quality elk hunting guides and outfitters throughout the west.  The first step in locating a reliable elk hunting outfitter is to research by state the local guides and outfitters association websites.  The next step is to solicit referrals from elk hunters who have hunted with that particular outfitter in the recent past. 

Once you have chosen an outfitter you can then research the State Fish and Game website for license availability and application deadlines.  A quality elk hunting outfitter should also help you with this licensing process.  Be sure to check references before you provide a deposit for your elk hunt.

Elk Hunting Equipment

Quality hunting gear and an appropriate rifle caliber is also essential as elk country can be beautiful but unforgiving and physically challenging.  One of the more popular elk rifles is the 30.06 and the widely used .270 caliber is a fine option as well. 

Good backpacking and survival equipment may be required for those hunters that choose to pursue mature bull elk up high on public lands.  Hunting clothes that can be worn in layers is recommended.  Western weather can change rapidly so a variety of hunting clothes should be available to the mule elk hunter.  One of the most important elk hunting aids is a good pair of binoculars and a quality rifle scope.  As an elk hunter you will find yourself glassing the mountainsides for long periods of time looking for a bull.

Where to Hunt Elk

The most popular elk hunting State in the country is Colorado.  Colorado has historically produced more elk than any other western state.   For big bulls New Mexico and Arizona put more bulls in the record books than any other state. 

For quality elk hunting on public land, Montana, Idaho and Wyoming are states with healthy populations and abundant public lands.  One of the best resources available to elk hunters is located on the Boone and Crockett Clubs website under the category of Trophy Watch.  Hunters can view recently taken elk trophies and read about the hunts on this fact checked website.