Hunting a Quiet Rut

by Nick
(Idaho)

Hey guys I live in north Idaho and am gearing up for archery here. My question comes from the last few years of archery. The elk have gotten noticeably quieter, whether from the growth of the wolf population or just from getting smarter. All I know is that in prime rut it's been very difficult to get them talking at all. They bugle from far off and let me get a ridge or two closer and then nothing.

So I am curious if anyone has any tips or advice that can help me get in a little closer. Especially when they aren't talking like this. Thanks for your time and tips!!!

Comments for Hunting a Quiet Rut

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Jul 10, 2014
Fire "Em Up With Calls!
by: Dave: ElkHuntingTips.Net

You can get quiet elk talking and even moving (to you!). Check out ElkNut's instructional book and CD: ElkNut's Playbook and Sounds by the Elk CD

Aug 30, 2012
To Steve
by: Nick

Hey thanks for the response!! I have just been bugling with reeds to locate and mostly cow called with hoochie and reeds when I got close. I got a silencer for the hoochie so it keeps it quiet. One bull I tried bugling agressively at as he would stay one ridge away and I finally got irritated and let him know and he actually stayed put till about 60 yards but that was the only time that worked.

But there are a lot of days where there is just nothing talkin at all and I'll jump a heram of cows so I know they are in there. Last year I did have a pack of wolves actually run up the draw I was in and chased off a bull that was talkin and then heard nothing for the next few days... I'm wondering if I just need to relocate or what... Spot and stalk just doesn't seem to be effective to get in range. Any call suggestions or any other ideas?


Aug 30, 2012
Calling?
by: Idaho Steve

What kind of calls are you using, bugles or cow talk? And are you being aggressive or more timid?

If the elk are bugling and then shut up when you get close, it could be your calling. Bulls also are careful about crossing from one ridge to another when responding to calls.

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