Whether you have recently gotten into hunting or are a seasoned sportsman, every hunter should prioritize mastering elk bugling.
Over the next couple of months, many hunters will head for the hills in hopes of harvesting a beautiful mature bull elk. Many will come home triumphant by putting in the work, continual focus and determination, and a handful of skills. Hard work and dedication to the sport can come from within, but practice and knowledge are essential for a successful hunt. In the world of elk hunting, this primarily refers to elk bugling.
Continue scrolling to learn some expert tips for elk bugling.
Elk Bugling Tips You Need to Know
Know the Various Types of Calls — Rookie or professional — every hunter should know the differences between the types of calls and practice them before going to the high country:
Chirps – Cows and sometimes bulls chirp. This vocalization is made when elk are around each other; it’s how they chat. Hunters can use chirps as filler calls to give the impression of a large herd of cow elk just hanging out to bring in a big bull.
Mew – Mews illustrate threats, submission, quarreling between bulls, or just a simple communication from cows to other elk.
Barks – Barks are very pointed and abrupt and are used to alert the group that there is danger nearby. Hunters should always avoid barking.
Bugle – This is the most well-known elk call, and we use it for a couple of reasons. It can be a sign of dominance or locating other males during the rut.
Chuckle – The chuckle is a series of grunts after a bugle.
Try the Bugle and Chuckle Call — This tactic is a tried-and-true elk call that can lure in a big bull elk. This method can scare off smaller bulls that do not want to get into a territorial fight or display dominance while bringing out larger bulls that want to keep and protect their turf.
Make Your Call Loud and Proud — Like many other animals, bulls do not like being shown up, especially during the rut when he’s trying to put his best hoof forward and strut his stuff. By bugling louder than the herd bull, you’ll probably bring a bull into sight that is ready to fight off a threat.Â
Avoid Conversing With the Bulls — Once you get a response from your bugle, it can be tempting to keep going back and forth with the elk. Don’t do it! Sure, you could get him to come in, but he could consider the threat to be more of a challenge than he’s up for and stay away.
Book Your Next Hunt With R & K Hunting Company
Put your elk bugling skills to the test on your next hunt with R & K Hunting Company.Â
The skilled and knowledgeable guides at R & K Hunting Company have decades of experience hunting big game and are eager to share more of their insider tips! Our team of professionals takes the headaches and hassles out of planning your trip so that you can enjoy your hunt. For an unforgettable hunting experience in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Utah and Wyoming, contact us today!