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What Types of Sounds Attract Elk Most During Blind Calling?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

Elk are most attracted to 2-3 second, 3-4 note, and 5-7 note series of low, medium, and high pitched sounds, respectively, during blind calling.

Effective Calling Sounds

When it comes to blind calling elk, you need to use your vocal cords to mimic the sounds of a cow elk in heat, or a bull elk’s challenge. A series of 3-4 high-pitched “yips” (similar to a high-pitched “eek”) can be an effective call when used in a series of 2-3 seconds, spaced 2-3 seconds apart. This call pattern is often referred to as the “yip series.”

Volume and Tone Control

To be effective, you need to control your volume and tone when blind calling elk. Start with a soft, low-pitched grunting sound to get the elk’s attention, then gradually increase the volume and pitch to simulate a more aggressive call. A good rule of thumb is to start at about 50 decibels and gradually increase to 80 decibels or more. You can use a call aid or a device to help control your tone and volume.

Using the Right Call Aid

A good call aid can help you produce the right sounds and increase your chances of attracting elk. When choosing a call aid, look for one that can produce high-pitched yips, low-pitched grunts, and a range of other sounds. You can also use a combination of call aids to create different sounds. For example, you can use a bugle call aid to produce a high-pitched sound, and a grunt call aid to produce a low-pitched sound. Experiment with different call aids and techniques to find what works best for you.

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