Best Time of Day for Elk Hunting in the Fall?

Early Morning Hunting Strategy

When hunting elk during the early morning hours, consider using a low-light hunting setup with a reliable rifle scope and a spotter’s binoculars to locate elk in the dark. Start by moving quietly to your pre-determined spot and get into position at least 30 minutes before sunrise. Be prepared to move quickly if you hear elk vocalizations or spot them at a distance. Aim for a spot with good cover, such as a thicket or a hillside, to conceal yourself. Try to position yourself at least 200-300 yards away from potential elk bedding areas to minimize detection.

Late Evening Hunting Strategy

For the late evening hours, use the same setup and strategy as the early morning, but with a focus on elk movement patterns during this time. Elk tend to move more during the late evening and early morning hours, so try to position yourself near a known elk trail or watering hole. Be prepared for the elk to be more active and vocal, and have a clear plan for how to approach and harvest an elk if you’re lucky enough to get a shot. Keep in mind that elk can be more difficult to approach in the late evening due to the increasing darkness, so stay alert and focused on your surroundings.