Going on an elk hunt is likely to be one of the most thrilling and challenging experiences for any hunter. However, it’s not something you should dive into without adequate preparation and experience. For those new to hunting or looking to build up their skills before taking on the elusive elk, here are five beginner hunts that will help you hone your abilities and gain the confidence needed for a successful elk hunt.
1. Small Game Hunting
Why Start Here: Small game hunting, such as pursuing rabbits, squirrels, or upland birds, is an excellent introduction to hunting. It helps you learn the basics of tracking, shooting, and understanding animal behavior without the pressure of a larger game.
What You’ll Learn: Patience, precision in shooting, and the importance of staying still and quiet. You’ll also get a feel for handling firearms or bows in a hunting setting.
Tips for Success: Focus on areas with abundant small game, use appropriate gear for your target species, and take the time to understand their habits and habitats.
Gear Recommendations: Shop 5 Essentials for Upland Hunting >>
2. Turkey Hunting
Why Start Here: Turkey hunting bridges the gap between small and big game hunting. Turkeys are intelligent and have keen senses, making them a more challenging hunt that requires skill in calling, camouflage, and shooting.
What You’ll Learn: Advanced tracking, calling techniques, and how to set up and use blinds. Turkey hunting also teaches you to be more strategic in your movements and positioning.
Tips for Success: Invest in a good turkey call, practice your calling techniques, and learn to identify turkey tracks and signs. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to hunt turkeys.
Gear Recommendations: Shop Turkey Calls >>
3. Whitetail Deer Hunting
Why Start Here: Deer hunting is a go-to for many hunters and provides experience in pursuing larger game. This hunt demands a deeper understanding of tracking, scent control, and stand placement.
What You’ll Learn: Patience in waiting for the right shot, how to effectively use treestands or ground blinds, and the importance of wind direction and scent management.
Tips for Success: Scout your hunting area beforehand to understand deer patterns, use trail cameras to monitor deer activity, and practice shooting from elevated positions if you plan to use a treestand.
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4. Antelope Hunting
Why Start Here: Antelope hunting, particularly in open plains, offers a different type of challenge. It involves spot-and-stalk techniques that are also useful in elk hunting.
What You’ll Learn: Long-range shooting, spotting and stalking skills, and understanding the behavior of game in open terrain.
Tips for Success: Invest in quality optics for spotting antelope at a distance, practice your shooting at longer ranges, and be prepared for a lot of walking and glassing.
Gear Recommendations: Shop all Optics >>
5. Black Bear Hunting
Why Start Here: Black bear hunting introduces you to the challenges of hunting a larger, more dangerous game. It requires a combination of skills, including baiting, tracking, and close-range shooting.
What You’ll Learn: How to bait and attract game, understanding bear behavior and signs, and the importance of shot placement for a humane and effective kill.
Tips for Success: Ensure you have the proper permits and understand local regulations for bear hunting. Use trail cameras to monitor bait sites and practice shooting at close and mid-range distances.
By starting with these beginner hunts, you’ll build a solid foundation of skills and confidence that will greatly benefit you when you finally take on the challenge of hunting elk. Remember, each type of hunt offers unique lessons and experiences that contribute to your overall growth as a hunter. Take the time to enjoy the process, respect the animals you pursue, and always prioritize safety and ethical hunting practices.
Ready to start prepping for your next hunt out west? Search & view all available hunts on Venku.com. There you’ll find elk and mule deer hunts, plus everything in between.