The Art of Calf Calling: How to Draw In Elk Without Alerting Them

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich sits down with his good friend Brad to discuss their recent elk hunting experiences and dive into some valuable tips and strategies for hunting elk. From calf calling and its effectiveness in high-pressure public lands to navigating the rut and using different techniques to get into prime elk country, Brad shares years of experience and insights that could help any elk hunter elevate their game. They also discuss the importance of terrain, e-scouting, and being prepared for every elk season, as well as sharing stories from the field that any hunter will find relatable and motivational. Tune in for a fun, informative episode packed with knowledge that could change the way you approach your next elk hunt. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction 04:10 – The Importance of Calf Calling and its Effectiveness 10:30 – Using Calf Calls in High-Pressure Public Land Hunts 15:00 – Transitioning from Cow Calls to Estrous Calls and Understanding the Rut 21:20 – Navigating Different Terrain: From Open Country to Thick Timber 30:00 – Midday Elk Hunting: Why It Can Be the Best Time to Hunt 35:00 – Using Natural Sounds and Raking to Get Bulls to Respond 42:00 – The Role of E-Scouting and Real-Time Intel in Premium Units 47:30 – The Power of Experience: Logging Every Hunt 53:30 – Tips for Hunting Premium Units and Learning from At-Bats 1:02:10 – The “One That Got Away” Story 1:08:00 – Wrapping Up and Cody’s Takeaways Key Takeaways: The Power of Calf Calling: Brad explains how calf calling, especially in high-pressure public land hunts, can help bring in elk more effectively than traditional cow calling. The relaxed nature of the call makes the elk feel more comfortable and can help hunters get closer to their target. Midday Hunting and the Rut: Hunting elk in the middle of the day can actually be more effective than hunting at dawn or dusk, especially when cows are bedded and bulls start to roam. Using calls to provoke bulls during midday can lead to encounters and increased activity, particularly in premium hunting areas. The Importance of Experience and Learning from Each Hunt: Brad shares his practice of logging every hunt to build a deep understanding of elk behavior, terrain, and hunting conditions over time. By accumulating real-world experience and tracking every variable, hunters can significantly reduce the learning curve and increase their chances of success. This episode is brought to you by two of the best names in the hunting world – OnX Maps and Stone Glacier. First up, OnX Maps – the go-to app for hunters who need to stay connected and informed while out in the field. Whether you’re hunting elk, mule deer, or chasing big bulls in the mountains, OnX has you covered with topographic maps, landowner info, and the ability to mark your spots. The GPS capabilities and offline mapping make it the perfect tool to keep you on track, no matter how remote your hunt. Don’t leave home without it. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use the code TRO to save 20% on your subscription. Next, we’ve got Stone Glacier, the brand that sets the bar for high-performance gear in the backcountry. From their lightweight, durable backpacks to their breathable, water-resistant clothing, Stone Glacier is built to help you go further and stay comfortable, no matter how tough the conditions. If you’re serious about your gear and need something that won’t hold you back on those long, rugged hunts, check out Stone Glacier at www.stoneglacier.com