Quick Answer
When calling for elk, your volume should be influenced by the time of day, distance to the animal, and the specific sound you're trying to mimic. A louder call can be more effective during dawn and dusk, when elk are most active, but may spook them at closer ranges. Experimenting with different volumes will help you determine the optimal level for your bugling strategy.
Calling Volume by Time of Day
When elk are most active, during dawn and dusk, a louder call can be more effective. I recommend using a louder tone during these periods, around 90-100 decibels, to imitate the loud bugling of a bull elk. However, be careful not to overdo it, as a call that’s too loud can spook the elk and alert them to your presence.
Calling Volume by Distance
At closer ranges, a softer call can be more effective. When elk are within 100 yards, I recommend using a softer tone around 60-70 decibels to avoid startling them. A softer call will help the elk become accustomed to the sound and increase their likelihood of responding. However, at longer ranges, you may need to use a louder call to carry the sound to the elk.
Experimenting with Volume
To determine the optimal calling volume, experiment with different levels and observe how the elk respond. Start with a softer call and gradually increase the volume until you get a response from the elk. Keep in mind that the time of day and distance to the animal will influence the optimal volume. Also, pay attention to the type of call you’re making, as different sounds may require different volumes.
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