The following are some of the most essential pieces of advice for anyone planning an elk hunt.
Train for it
To be a successful elk hunter, you must be physically fit. Training is a need, and it cannot be omitted. To begin, you’ll need a set of well-balanced legs. Squats and stair stepper running are two excellent activities to incorporate into your routine. Next, having a strong core will help you keep your balance, especially if you’re carrying a hefty load while traversing rugged terrain. Then, you must be able to carry the pack’s weight on your back and shoulders. That’s all you need to get by.
Cardio should not be overlooked, either. When you’re just strolling, the mountain air makes it more difficult to breathe. The challenge increases tenfold when you start tracking elk. Because of this, lung power is essential to remain on the hunt. Elk-hunting packs and hiking boots are better than treadmill running but don’t be afraid to take on the highest terrain you can locate in your neighborhood. Start small, and then gradually increase the difficulty of your workouts.
Have an e-scouting session
For elk hunting, this may not appear like a significant preparation item. It is, and here’s why: On north-facing hills in September when the weather is warm, elk are drawn to the dense timber. If there’s a spring or stream nearby, that’s a plus. Set up waypoints for these potential hunting grounds ahead of time.
Shooting in Difficult Situations
Elevated terrain and heavy cover provide a large number of elk shot opportunities. You’re confronting a much tougher target than you know when you add a high pulse and breathing pace to the mix.
Realistic shooting scenarios are essential for honing your skills and preparing for the real thing. To begin, avoid shooting at clearly visible targets. Position the objective so that impediments partially obscure it. Make it clear that if you miss, you’ll face repercussions, which will help you focus and feel more confident when you succeed.
Adapt Your Sleep Routine
For a week before your hunt, get in the habit of rising at the same time you will during your hunt and go to bed sooner than usual. As you begin your hunt, the adjustment will become less noticeable and less stressful.
Make sure your body is properly hydrated
Few people are able to state that they drink a lot of water. It’s not uncommon for people to get dehydrated before a hunt in the mountains and not have the energy or stamina to keep going for long. The day before your hunt, make sure to consume plenty of water and then some. During the search, you will have more energy and better health.
Conclusion
Elk bugling at fewer than 40 yards is an exhilarating experience for bowhunters. Always remember, though, training hard for elk hunting does not guarantee success.