Quick Answer
For late-season elk hunting, the best calls typically mimic the sounds of cow elk in heat, using high-pitched, urgent, and nasal tones. These calls can be achieved with a combination of diaphragm and mouth calls, often in conjunction with a bugle to locate bulls. Effective calls can make a significant difference in the success of an elk hunt.
Selecting the Right Call
When choosing a call for late-season elk, consider a high-quality diaphragm call with a range of pitch control and a responsive reed system. This will allow you to produce the high-pitched, nasal tones that resemble a cow elk in heat. Consider the Hoochie Diaphragm Elk Call or the Primos 4-Ever Diaphragm Call, both of which offer excellent pitch control and reed response.
Using the Call Effectively
To get the best results from your call, practice using it in the days leading up to your hunt to develop a consistent, high-pitched tone. Start by making short, high-pitched bleats, then gradually increase the pitch and volume to mimic a cow elk in heat. Use a bugle to locate bulls, then transition to the call to attract their attention. Experiment with different call patterns, such as a series of short, high-pitched bleats followed by a longer, more nasal call, to find what works best for you.
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