What are Best Times Of Day To Call Elk?

Early Morning Calling

When calling elk in the early morning, it’s essential to make your calls in sync with the elk’s natural vocalizations. Typically, the elk will start making sounds around 30-45 minutes before sunrise, with the peak calling window happening 15-30 minutes before daylight. Use this opportunity to mimic their bugling calls with a series of 2-4, 3-5 second long notes. Start with a low-pitched growl and gradually increase in pitch to simulate a bull elk’s call. Be prepared to make 10-20 calls during this period to keep the elk engaged.

Late Evening Calling

For late evening calling, position yourself in a spot where you have a clear view of the surrounding area and can make a quick escape if needed. The key is to make your calls 30-60 minutes before actual darkness, when the elk are transitioning from their daytime feeding areas to their bedding grounds. A series of 4-6, 2-3 second long notes, with a rising pitch, is effective in simulating a bull elk’s evening call. Aim for 5-10 calls during this period, with a 2-3 minute gap between each call, to keep the elk interested and moving in your direction.

Effective Calling Techniques

When calling elk at close range, it’s crucial to use a high-quality call that can produce clear, realistic sounds. A bull elk’s call typically starts with a low-pitched growl, followed by a series of rising notes that peak around 1-2 seconds before the call ends. To make your calls more effective, focus on using the correct pitch, tone, and duration to mimic the elk’s natural vocalizations. Practice your calling technique in the off-season to develop your skills and build confidence in your ability to make realistic elk calls.