Elk are fairly simple creatures that have some very basic needs. They need to eat, water, sleep and reproduce, not necessarily in that order. One way of increasing your odds of harvesting your elk is to stalk hunt. Stalk hunting when done the smart way is very effective, but if done wrongly, it can be a waste of time.

Access Your Area Before Elk Hunting

Stalk hunting should begin by studying a topographical map first. In elk camp, after our evening meal, we reserved time for sharing what we had learned from the day’s hunt and preplanning over a map of the area. Special details like food and water sources along with suitable cover for bedding of elk was noted. Taking the time to access the area is very important.

Forecasts of the weather and wind direction are also needed so you should rely on your smart phone for this information. After compiling all of the information, you can plan your hunt. Your main objective is to find elk and if you hunt close to where they eat, drink and make merry so to speak, you will increase your chances of seeing elk.

When stalk hunting these areas, pay close attention to the wind. Often you will find that as the day gets warmer, the wind currents will move up slope. Wind will move down hill in the mornings because the air is cooler and sinks. Just keep in mind that other conditions can affect wind currents. A simple rule is to try to hunt with the wind in your face to keep from getting detected.

Move Slowly When Stalking Elk

One of the biggest mistakes hunters make when stalking elk is that they move through the woods too quickly. When I moved to snow country for the first time I was told by the locals to drive as if there was an egg between my foot and the accelerator and brake pedals. I have always remembered this advice and it has served me well. So I would say to a hunter wanting to see more elk , move through the woods as if you were wearing a paper suit and try not to tear it.

Stop Look And Listen When Hunting Elk

Another bit of advice is to take time to stop, rest and glass likely areas for animals.That object that you thought was a boulder, could turn out to be your trophy bull elk bedded down. Be sure and use trees, bushes or rocks to break up your outline as you move along

One last tip would be to listen carefully to your surroundings. Crows and squirrels will often give away elk as they fuss at them. Twigs or branches snapping or rocks tumbling can alert you to elk trying to move away from you. Knowing how to stalk elk can pay off with filling your tag, but if done wrong, it is merely exercise.

Good luck on your next elk hunt!