New to elk hunting, or planning a hunt in a new state? Start here. These steps follow the order a real elk hunt comes together, from the first application in winter to packing meat off the mountain in the fall.
Seven steps to an elk hunt
- Pick a state and learn how it issues tags. Most western states use a draw, and several have moved nonresident tags from over the counter to a draw. See Elk Hunting States and Tags.
- Mark the deadlines. Many western draws open in winter and close in early spring. Missing a deadline usually means waiting a year.
- Choose a season and weapon. Archery seasons often overlap the September rut, while many rifle seasons open in October. See Elk Seasons and the Rut.
- Learn a few calls. A locate bugle and a handful of cow calls cover most situations. See Elk Calls and Calling.
- Build the kit. Boots, a frame pack and good binoculars matter most. See the Elk Hunting Gear Guide.
- Get in shape and scout. Elk live in steep country, often at high elevation. Summer scouting and hiking with a loaded pack pay off in September.
- Plan the pack-out. A mature elk can mean several trips with a heavy pack. Bring game bags and plan how to keep the meat cool.
Keep learning
- Elk Subspecies: the four living elk and where they live
- Elk Timeline: how elk came back from fewer than 100,000 animals
- Elk Gear Manufacturers: the brands elk hunters rely on
- Elk Hunting F.A.Q.: quick answers to common questions
- Hunt4 Elk Blog: news and planning articles
Regulations change every year. Hunt4 Elk.com is written by hunters, not lawyers, so always check the current rules with the state wildlife agency before applying or hunting.