Elk season varies depending on the state, but the earliest elk hunting seasons kick off in late July. That means that preparing for elk season starts now, because you have a lot to do if you want to be successful. The time is now for big game hunters to check their gear, secure their tags, plot their hunt, tune your bow, and get sighted in!
Preparing for Elk Season
In general, the best elk hunts come from State lotteries. Apply, apply, apply!
Preparing for elk hunting season starts with a tag, and tags are limited. Lots of western states have already started their lottery applications. If you live in the following states, you have no time to waste!
- Utah
- Oregon
- Nevada
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Wyoming
Get your submissions in quick if you want a chance at the best tags.
If you need help, be sure to get in touch with us quickly. We are happy to help you with an application strategy.
You can still get an-over the-counter tag in these states…
Not one of the lucky few chosen in the lottery? No problem, there are some good affordable elk hunts if you’re in the know! You can purchase over-the-counter tags, or purchase hunting vouchers or landowner tags in some states.
- Utah
- Idaho
- Oregon
- Montana
- Colorado
- Wyoming
Mapping Your Hunt
Now that you know where you are hunting, use technology to your advantage.
Google Earth is used by hunters all the time when they’re preparing for elk season. It’s a critical tool in your arsenal as you scout out the best locations. An elk needs access to water, food, and cover. Elk prefer wooded areas for a sense of security.
Proper Elk Hunting Gear
You need to have the right gear for the job. If you want to bag an elk this year, don’t settle.
If you find yourself lacking supplies, don’t fret. Just check out our elk hunting gear recommendations and get yourself geared up. Good optics, camping gear, a backpack and the correct calls are critical.
Check our bestselling elk calls!
Get Packing
Now’s the time to be purchasing the pack and boots you will need; otherwise, you will be kicking yourself later.
Do you know what’s worse than missing your shot? When you don’t get to take one! I have seen so many elk hunts end in failure because the hunter is too exhausted to make it to where they need to be in the first place. So, grab that pack, grab your boots and get out there!
Ensure you are close enough to your truck to pack light and tough enough to carry what you need.
Plan a few hikes ahead of time to break in those boots while carrying that much weight up steep terrain. Get your gear and your body in gear before the best bulls are bagged. Endurance is vital here, and elk hunting is not for the weak.
Pick your Hunting Partner
Are you a solo hunter or a team player?
There are a lot of advantages to hunting together. Two people can carry more gear, a bigger cooler, and make it farther afield than a lone wolf. Plus, it helps to have a buddy calling for you. Lifetime lone hunters know that you will be glad you have a partner when it comes time to butcher and haul.
No Time to Waste!
With all that in mind, elk season doesn’t seem that far away after all!
Time to apply for the lotteries, find the best gear and hit the trails as you prepare for one of the most exhilarating big game hunts America has to offer.
Quiz time, hunter. Have you checked all these boxes?
- Tags purchased
- Hunting site chosen
- Optics purchased
- Gear ready
- Training complete
Check those boxes, and the elk don’t stand a chance. Happy hunting!
Interested in Booking a Hunt?
Let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll get you more information, pricing and availability.
Richard Douglas is a long-time shooter, outdoor enthusiast and technologist. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field, and a columnist at The National Interest, Cheaper Than Dirt, Daily Caller and other publications.