Bowhunting Elk Solo

[postcorner]

Hey guys, I posted this in the elk section too. I just had a quick question. I typically bowhunt for elk by myself. While I have had success calling in elk I have found it difficult to get the bull within bow range while hunting solo. I know the preferred method of calling in a bull is to do it with a partner, but that isn't always an option. I recently bought a Montana elk decoy hoping I can set that up 20-30 yards behind me to help pull the bulls in a little closer but I have yet to really use it. I'm thinking if I can just get the bull within eye-sight of the decoy then I can shut up and let "her" do the rest. For those of you who do hunt elk alone can you offer any other tips or suggestions for getting the bull in. Thanks.

 

[swbuckmaster]

Try calling and then quietly running to the elk to close the distance before he commits to you. The decoy can work at times also.

 

[Bullcanyon]

The bull is going to circle 100yds or so into the wind from where the calling is coming from. Even if a decoy is set up they will still try and wind it. Definetly set the decoy up so that you are downwind of it. Also try calling to a bull and then running downwind 70-100yds. The bull should walk right through your lane.

 

[canislatrans]

The most important thing to remember is to keep the animal from catching a hint of your scent. Keep the wind in your favor and you can just about get away with anything. I like to be as quiet as I can but when push comes to shove don't be afraid to make some noise when getting into a position for a good shot. Elk make lots of racket when moving around through the forest and the bull will likey let you get away with it as long as he does not see or smell you. The posts above are just as important as this one as well. One other thing you might try is if the bulls are bugleing but are not coming to calls, is to try and listen for him over a bit of time and figure out what direction he is going. This way you may have a chance at setting up in front of him and he may just walk to or by you with out him knowing you are even there. I tried that method many times during my hunt this year and it worked twice for me as far being within range of the bull. And I think it would work better for you seeing how you could use your decoy as at the same time. No matter what keep from letting the bull catching your scent. Good luck.

 

[postcorner]

Hey thanks for the info guys. It has been a tricky year so far but hey, that's half the fun. I constantly check the wind while I am hunting and try my best to keep my scent to a minimum. I can be tricky though, especially in the morning when the thermals haven't started blowing uphill. I am heading out again this weekend so I will let you know how it goes. Have a good one!