CALLING ALL ELK
By Jim Foster
It’s nearly that time again when the mountains will be filled with the sound on a bull elk bugling to attract the cows. So it stands to reason that calling elk is a very productive method of finding and killing a good elk.
Before I go any further let me mention that I will be hunting in the Salmon region of Idaho with what is called a “green fields” tag for cow elk so attracting a large bull is a moot point – that is unless he brings several cows with him when he comes to a call. I think it’s worth a try.
A serious problem that Idaho elk have been facing for a few years is the introduction of the Gray Wolf in several of the Rocky Mountain States. In spite of what the “tree-hugging-tofu-eating-wolf-lovers” say the wolf is either killing or chasing the elk out of the country. A bad deal and a problem that the states must manage not the Feds.
So – how do you get close to your elk? The answer is readily available from the HUNTER’S SPECIALITES people. These are the same people who sponsored me when I competed in the Valley Land Fund Photo Contest sending me several of their pop-up blinds that helped me win a first place.
As for as elk hunters go I do rank way down the list but do consider myself as reasonably proficient with a cow call. Oh yes, I have had distant answers using a bugle call in the past but using it in a hunting situation is not on the hunt plan for this guy. However, there is a person who has been an expert elk hunter for years.
The man with the knowledge and many years of experience is Wayne Carlton. I met Wayne over a decade ago and have always found his advise sound and extremely helpful. My last visit with Wayne was at the grand opening of the new headquarters of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in Missoula, Montana.
Recognized as one of the top experts on elk hunting his words of wisdom are always well heeded and appreciated in hunting circles.
Now Hunter Specialties has produced a new CD with elk expert Wayne titled “ PRIMETIME BULLS 7-25” and takes in 25 years of elk hunting with Wayne. The CD is over two and a half hours of great hunting tips, and advice for elk hunters. Whether you hunt with bow, rifle, or black powder this CD will give you an edge up this year on your elk.
For more information or to order your copy go to; www.hunterspec.com and ask for CD # 70666. While you are on the sight look over their wide selection of other calls and hunting gear.
If you have comments or news for Jim Foster please email him at: jim@jimfosteroutdoors.com
