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Elk is one of North America’s most widespread prey, with habitats stretching throughout much of the continent. Recent findings suggest that the elk population in Canada is thriving despite an increase in predatory activity.

However, elk hunting is an art that requires adequate preparation and constant practice. A simple mistake is all it takes for these skittish animals to slip out of range or (worse yet) charge ferociously in your direction. I wouldn’t want to be caught in the path of those deadly antlers.

The good news is that you can follow certain pointers to make your elk hunting trips in Canada relish forever. Here are five of those tips.

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

1. Pick a Destination

Having a proper understanding of the elk’s native range is critical when choosing the right elk hunting Canada gear. It ensures you’re fully strapped for the trip ahead.

Now, British Columbia has the largest elk population in Canada. Current estimates indicate that out of the 72,000 elk in Canada, the vast majority (up to 40,000) are spread throughout British Columbia.

Other noteworthy provinces in Canada that are good for elk hunting include Alberta, Yukon, and Saskatchewan. Note that each region boasts a fair population of other wild animals besides elk.

For instance, you’re likely to encounter a significant number of bears while elk hunting in British Columbia. Alberta teems with moose, while Saskatchewan is a haven of waterfowl.

While you’re primarily targeting elk, keeping your eyes out for other guests in your hunting fields is important. You don’t want to come head to head with a bear on the prowl.

2. Understand the Time and Seasons

Mid-October to late December is North America’s prime rutting season for deer. It’s the ideal time to plan your elk hunting trip in Canada.

However, while the rutting season is marked by intense activity among male deer (bucks), female deer (does) can be hunted pretty much any time of the year.

It’s also worth noting that the peak rutting season depends on elevation and latitude. Therefore, it pays to research the general terrain of your target hunting ground and how it might impact the elk population.

Moreover, it’s prudent to understand the perfect time of day to go after elk.

Elk are nocturnal animals. That presents a severe challenge to human hunters, who thrive in daylight. Therefore, the best time of day to plan your elk hunt is around dawn or dusk.

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

3. Choose Your Weapons Wisely

Bows and rifles are the quintessential elk-hunting weapons. However, if you’re skilled in both tools but have never deployed them on an elk hunt, you may face a dilemma trying to choose between them.

Well, bows are excellent for stealth hunters keen on honing their archery skills. The weapon is remarkably quiet and doesn’t produce a flash. So, you’re unlikely to spook nearby animals except those grazing around your target during the impact.

On the other hand, a rifle is perfect for long-range elk hunting. It prevents you from stalking your prey close enough to spook them.

Rifles are also more accurate than bows. A single shot can take down prey dozens of meters away, provided you can lock it down using a powerful pair of scopes.

Whichever weapon you choose, ensure it comes with the requisite accessories.

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

4. Invest In Proper Elk Hunting Clothes

What constitutes the best elk hunting clothing? This is a frequently asked question by many beginner hunters.

First and foremost, it’s imperative to choose comfortable clothing. Insist on natural fabrics as opposed to synthetic ones, which are notorious for producing skin irritation. The fabric should preferably be breathable and moisture-wicking, providing comfort during a rather hot day while preventing the target prey from picking up your body scent.

Besides, your elk hunting clothing should provide maximum camouflage. Prioritise clothes in neutral or earthy shades like brown, grey, tan, and jungle green.

The prevailing weather conditions and your ideal hunting time also determine which elk hunting clothes to buy. If you’re in doubt, choose lightweight clothing that’s easy to layer.

Note that these rules apply to hunting boots, too. The boots can go from knee- to ankle height, depending on the prevailing weather conditions. They should also fit snugly but not tightly and have a special moisture-wicking lining in their interiors, measuring around 200 – 400 grams.

5. Practice Elk Calling and Stalking

Elk calling is an art that requires constant practice.

Some elk are notoriously hard to trick. So, you want to ensure your calls are as authentic and accurate as possible.

A herd of elk whose members have fallen prey to humans before is exceedingly difficult to lure. Experience has taught them some pretty tough lessons, and they’ll be wary of venturing in the direction of unfamiliar bugles.

Seasoned hunters recommend using estrous cow sounds while calling elk during the rutting season. These long, quavering (almost whiny) meows can trick a testosterone-driven buck into thinking there’s a receptive cow yonder.

As for stalking, ensure you approach elk downwind to avoid being sniffed out. That means the wind blows from the prey to you and not vice versa.

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

The Bottom Line

When it comes to elk hunting, patience is a virtue. Do not fret if you’re unsuccessful on the first few attempts, as there’s always a chance to excel yourself.

Besides, things won’t always work in your favor despite how well-prepared you are. So, keeping an open mind and knowing when to call off the trip is important.