Quick Answer
To effectively call antelope on open terrain, hunters should focus on using a combination of cow calls and buck bleats to mimic the sounds of a doe and a young buck, taking care to vary the pitch and tone to sound authentic.
Choosing the Right Call
When hunting antelope on the high plains of Montana, it’s essential to select a call that can produce a wide range of sounds. A call with a flexible diaphragm, such as the “Old Timer” or “Cow Killer,” is ideal for replicating the sounds of antelope. These calls can produce a soft, raspy cow call as well as a loud, sharp buck bleat.
Call Placement and Angle
To get the attention of antelope, it’s crucial to position the call in a way that allows the sounds to carry far and wide. Place the call about shoulder-high and angled slightly forward, allowing the sounds to radiate outward. Aim for a spot where the antelope are likely to be passing through, such as a draw or a water source. Experiment with different call placements to find what works best in your specific location.
Timing and Volume
The key to successful calling is to vary the timing and volume of the calls to mimic the sounds of a real antelope. Start with soft, gentle calls to get the attention of any nearby antelope, and then gradually increase the volume and intensity to simulate the sounds of a doe and a young buck interacting. Aim for a rhythm of about 2-3 calls per minute, with a mix of 5-10 second pauses between each call.
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