Quick Answer
In timber country, blending in is generally better than standing out when calling elk, as it allows you to remain undetected and increase the chances of a close encounter.
Calling in the Right Environment
When elk are in dense timber, it’s best to blend in with the surroundings to avoid scaring them off. This means wearing earth-toned clothing, keeping a low profile, and avoiding any actions that might alert them to your presence. In timber, the key is to be a ‘ghost caller’, invisible to the elk but audible to your ears.
Choosing the Right Calls
In timber, you’ll want to use a call that can cut through the dense foliage and reach the elk. A good choice is a bugle call, such as the ‘bugle-hoot’ combination, which can be loud enough to be heard over 100 yards in heavy timber. You can also use a low-pitched grunt call, such as the ‘grunt-bugle’ combination, to reach elk at longer distances.
Mastering the Art of Silence
One of the most critical skills for a blind caller is the ability to remain silent between calls. This means avoiding any unnecessary movement, rustling of leaves, or other sounds that might give away your position. Practice your calling in a quiet area, and focus on making smooth, even transitions between calls. Aim to keep your calls to 2-3 seconds each, with 30-60 seconds of silence in between. This allows you to maintain a steady, predictable pattern that elk can learn to recognize.
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