What Common Mistakes Do Hunters Make With Elk Calls?

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Overcalling and Lack of Varying Pitch and Tone One of the most significant mistakes hunters make with elk calls is overcalling. Elk are highly sensitive to sounds, and repeated calls can alert other elk in the area, causing them to become wary. A good rule of thumb is to limit calls to 3-5 minutes of consistent calling, followed by a 10-15 minute period of silence. To make calls more effective, hunters should vary pitch and tone to mimic the vocalizations of a real elk. This can be achieved by changing the volume, speed, and cadence of the call. For example, if using a bugle call, hunters can start with a high-pitched, rapid series of grunts, then transition to a lower-pitched, more drawn-out call.
Incorrect Use of Calls at Close Range When calling at close range, hunters often make the mistake of using too much volume and intensity, which can spook the elk. At close range, it’s essential to use a more subtle approach, focusing on short, gentle calls that mimic the sounds an elk would make in close proximity. For example, a gentle “bleat” or “chirp” call can be effective at 50-75 yards, while a bugle call may be more effective at longer ranges. Additionally, hunters should be aware of their surroundings and adjust their calls accordingly. For example, if calling in a narrow canyon or valley, hunters may need to use a more subdued approach to avoid spooking the elk.
Failure to Accommodate the Angle of the Shot When calling at steep angles, hunters often fail to accommodate the angle of the shot, resulting in a shot that is either too high or too low. To avoid this mistake, hunters should consider the angle of the shot when calling elk. For example, if calling at a 45-degree angle, hunters may need to adjust their calls to be higher-pitched and more drawn-out to compensate for the angle. Additionally, hunters should consider the terrain and adjust their calls accordingly. For example, if calling in a steep-sided canyon, hunters may need to use a more subdued approach to avoid spooking the elk. By taking these factors into account, hunters can increase their chances of making a successful shot.