Locating Elk: Next Level Scouting

Are you tired of unproductive hunts and wondering where the elk are hiding? Discover the game-changing strategies that seasoned elk hunter and expert scout Josh Sears uses to find elk year-round—no matter where you hunt, east or west. Whether you’re new to hunting or a seasoned pro, this episode reveals how to interpret maps, identify key terrain features, and use satellite imagery to pinpoint the best spots before you even leave home. Josh Sears, founder of Boots on the Ground Services, shares his insider tips on e-scouting, including how to interpret topo lines, identify potential elk bedding areas, and navigate tricky terrain from thousands of miles away. He explains why north-facing slopes and benches are often elk magnets, how weather and seasonality impact elk movement, and why water sources are critical—even in dry months. Plus, learn how to adapt your scouting approach based on the time of year, weather conditions, and your hunting style. We break down specific tactics: dropping pins on remote high-elevation spots, understanding the significance of clear trails and sign, and factoring in pressure from other hunters. Josh reveals how to find alternative spots when your first plan gets overrun or cattle has grazed out your prime location. His advice on how to efficiently scout during a short trip or even during the season itself will make your next hunt more productive and less stressful. Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip or hunting a remote backcountry area, knowing these detailed scouting methods can mean the difference between filling your tag and coming home empty-handed. This episode is perfect for hunters eager to learn how to think like an elk and read the land like a pro—so you show up confident, prepared, and one step ahead of the herd.Interested in turning your e-scouting efforts into real-world results? Josh’s “Boots on the Ground” service offers tailored scouting trips, helping hunters verify their locations and gather crucial intel on public land elk hotspots. Visit BootsOnTheGroundServices.com for more info and custom packages. Gear up with real-world insights from a true elk hunting expert—hit play and transform your approach from guesswork to certainty. Your next big elk encounter could be just a map pin away.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.