Elk Calling Tactics for Every Phase of the Rut | Dirk Durham

Got questions? Send us a text!Dirk Durham—better known as “The Bugler” from Phelps Game Calls—joins the Mountain Dude Podcast for a complete breakdown of archery elk calling strategies for every phase of September.From the quiet opening days of archery elk season to the peak rut and unpredictable final week, Dirk explains how elk behavior changes throughout the month—and how hunters can adjust their calling tactics accordingly.In this episode, we cover:• Early-season elk calling strategies• When to bugle versus when to cow call• How to locate elk in thick timber and new country• Reading north-facing slopes, benches and bedding cover• Matching a bull’s calling intensity• Why some elk approach without making a sound• Using raking and subtle calling sequences• Knowing when to close the distance• Managing wind, thermals and hunting pressure• Peak-rut calling tactics• Late-September strategies for bulls searching for cows• Why cow calls may be overused in pressured areas• How to practice with a diaphragm call and bugle tube• Common elk calling mistakes• How Dirk identifies the sound of a mature bullWhether you’re preparing for your first archery elk season or looking to improve your calling setups in pressured public-land country, this conversation is packed with practical elk hunting tips you can apply throughout September.Dirk also demonstrates several different elk vocalizations and explains why successful calling isn’t always about being louder or more aggressive. The key is listening to the elk, understanding the situation and giving them the type of communication they are responding to.This podcast is presented for educational and documentary purposes. Always hunt legally, ethically and responsibly, follow all applicable regulations, and prioritize safe shot selection.SHOP PHELPS GAME CALLS:https://phelpsgamecalls.comSHOP INITIAL ASCENT PACK SYSTEMS:https://initialascent.comLEARN MORE ABOUT THE MOUNTAIN DUDE PODCAST:https://initialascent.com/pages/mountaindudepodcastSubscribe for more archery elk hunting tips, backcountry hunting conversations, gear breakdowns and stories from hunters who continue to carry heavy loads and keep climbing.Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcasthttps://initialascent.com/Want to watch the episode on YouTube:Click here.InstagramFacebook