What are best elk calls for late-season hunting?

Choosing the Right Call

When selecting an elk call for late-season hunting, consider the type of sound you want to make. A bugle call, such as the Primos Elk Call, is ideal for mimicking a mature bull’s loud, raspy bugle. This call is effective for drawing in a bull, but it can also alert other bulls to your presence. For a more subtle approach, consider a cow elk call, such as the HOO Ah HOO call, which mimics a cow’s estrus bleat. This call is effective for drawing in a bull that’s already interested in a cow.

Using the Call Effectively

To use an elk call effectively, you need to be able to produce the desired sound consistently and with conviction. Practice your call before heading out into the field to ensure you can produce the sound you want. When using the call, start with a low volume and gradually increase the volume as needed. Use the call sparingly, as elk can become conditioned to the sound if it’s used too frequently. Consider using the call in conjunction with other hunting strategies, such as scenting with a doe-in-heat lure or using a decoy.

Call Techniques for New Mexico Elk

In New Mexico, elk are often found in areas with dense cover, such as pine forests and aspen groves. To effectively use an elk call in these areas, try using a “stalking” technique, where you move quietly through the cover, calling occasionally to simulate the sound of a cow elk. This technique can help you get close to your target without spooking it. Alternatively, try using a “set-up” technique, where you set up a calling sequence in a strategic location, such as a ridge or a saddle, and wait for the elk to come to you. This technique can be effective for drawing in a bull that’s already interested in the area.