Post by: JPhelps on May 01, 2014, 09:34:59 AM
So I thought I would post up a general location for you to ask any questions you may have regarding elk hunting. Anything from what I look for in a new spot, scouting, calling, packing, to cutting it up. Not only does the forum allow the answer to be shared with everyone, more importantly it allows others to contribute with their own experience.
Post by: arrowflinger on May 01, 2014, 09:37:25 AM
Post by: WapitiTalk1 on May 01, 2014, 09:53:19 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on May 01, 2014, 10:12:43 AM
Post by: JPhelps on May 01, 2014, 11:24:01 AM
I don't tree stand hunt. First because I'm not patient enough and second I'm not patient enough. My hunting style has evolved into a more aggressive get in tight and call them in the last little bit.
With that said If I was to advise on setting one up I would pick either a heavily used wallow (I don't have to guess what trail they are going to use) or a heavily used transition route between feed/bed.
I would use the wallow if there was thick or tough country to hunt and the heavily used trail when I was familiar with their bedding and feeding routine. Once the elk have been disrupted I would gravitate to Wallows.
Post by: WapitiTalk1 on May 01, 2014, 11:34:56 AM
Post by: stromdiddily on May 01, 2014, 01:17:54 PM
Post by: EyeTooth on May 01, 2014, 01:35:03 PM
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on May 01, 2014, 01:42:37 PM
What an offer though! I look forward to gaining knowledge as it's posted.
Post by: coop2424 on May 01, 2014, 02:03:28 PM
Post by: steeliedrew on May 01, 2014, 02:38:59 PM
I've been using mouth reeds for the last couple years and have gotten fairly good at it but I struggle with consistency. I had a hard time getting any sounds out of them at first because I have a high, narrow pallet. I found that the Bugling Bull diapghram that is green in color and has the black plastic dome works best for me. I was wondering if you make any mouth reeds that work well with a high and narrow pallet?
Thank you,
Drew
Post by: D-Rock425 on May 01, 2014, 02:45:08 PM
Post by: RB on May 01, 2014, 02:51:57 PM
Post by: JPhelps on May 01, 2014, 03:09:09 PM
High Narrow palates are tough. I offer a youth small frame that fits high in the palate. Have you tried bugling bull mini master tone top? That should give you an even better fit than the green all star.
Darrin,
When bulls don't seem to be talking I typically let my feet and eyes do the work. I try locating elk behind the glass and move in close. I have also found that in the month of September even though bulls may not be bugling on their own if I can get close enough most of the time I can force them to play the game.
I don't typically cold call. I "luke-warm" call. When I can smell them and see that they have been in the area recently I will call for an hour or so. I probably only use 6-8 calling sequences per hour. I also try and figure out where the elk are and combine that with wind direction (sometimes it's best to move on).
RB,
Are you talking about Rifle Season? If so I only call when I want them to stop or to settle them down after spooking them. Other than that I don't call during rifle season.
Post by: jackelope on May 01, 2014, 04:01:39 PM
Meant to ask you this a few weeks ago and never got around to it.
We had a bull I called in last fall stop in thick timber and start raking trees. I could see the trees swaying, he came in silent and hung up. He was about 60-70 yards and we couldn't see him. This went on for 10-15 minutes and eventually he wandered off. I could cow call and he'd start raking again for a short time, then stop. Cow call again, he'd get all wadded up and tear into the tree. Eventually I stopped all together thinking maybe he'd walk out or move or something to where we could see him....nothing. I tried a wimpy sounding bugle and got nothing. Eventually the wind swirled and he busted, but he busted calmly...just kinda trotted off. Just curious what the right thing to do "could have" been in that scenario. I know I had no clue what to do and was just throwing stuff out there to no avail. It was thick brush/timber and we were outside of that on the edge of an open meadow, and there were some cows present...we could hear them calling back and forth too.
Thanks for this thread...cool idea, and sticky'd!
-Josh
Post by: bowhunterforever on May 01, 2014, 04:05:11 PM
Post by: pd on May 01, 2014, 04:46:29 PM
Post by: Rainier10 on May 01, 2014, 04:54:03 PM
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on May 01, 2014, 05:18:50 PM
Post by: WapitiTalk1 on May 01, 2014, 05:44:24 PM
We had a bull I called in last fall stop in thick timber and start raking trees. I could see the trees swaying, he came in silent and hung up. He was about 60-70 yards and we couldn't see him. This went on for 10-15 minutes and eventually he wandered off. I could cow call and he'd start raking again for a short time, then stop. Cow call again, he'd get all wadded up and tear into the tree. Eventually I stopped all together thinking maybe he'd walk out or move or something to where we could see him....nothing. I tried a wimpy sounding bugle and got nothing. Eventually the wind swirled and he busted, but he busted calmly...just kinda trotted off. Just curious what the right thing to do "could have" been in that scenario. I know I had no clue what to do and was just throwing stuff out there to no avail. It was thick brush/timber and we were outside of that on the edge of an open meadow, and there were some cows present...we could hear them calling back and forth too.
Curious to hear Jason's thought on this but here's my .02 (which is probably worth about that much :P ). Although it's very tempting, it is not usually a good idea to set up too close to meadows, particularly on the edge when calling. Too much space and too many things that can go wrong. It's best to be in the timber at least 40 or 50 yards (at least). About that bull that came in and raking his butt off.. he was advertising to you and your cow calls (saying I am so cool and such a handsome guy, YOU, need to come over here now). Later in the rut when this guy becomes a bit more vocal, he quite possibly would have thrown some chuckles your way which is in essence, the same message. I believe your best chance, cover/concealment/wind permitting, would have been to give him what he's asking for... your presence much closer. He got suspicious after a while that this cow would not come in to his advertising and headed out. Just my meager thoughts brother. RJ
Post by: Nice Racks on May 01, 2014, 05:54:43 PM
I'm about as green as they come when it comes to elk hunting (this will be my 3rd year), and come early Sept I would rather be "hunting" elk rather than "scouting" for them . What do you look for when scouting this time of year, and can you take me through the following months leading up to opening day?
Respectfully,
Tm
Post by: JPhelps on May 01, 2014, 06:04:48 PM
Jason-
Meant to ask you this a few weeks ago and never got around to it.
We had a bull I called in last fall stop in thick timber and start raking trees. I could see the trees swaying, he came in silent and hung up. He was about 60-70 yards and we couldn't see him. This went on for 10-15 minutes and eventually he wandered off. I could cow call and he'd start raking again for a short time, then stop. Cow call again, he'd get all wadded up and tear into the tree. Eventually I stopped all together thinking maybe he'd walk out or move or something to where we could see him....nothing. I tried a wimpy sounding bugle and got nothing. Eventually the wind swirled and he busted, but he busted calmly...just kinda trotted off. Just curious what the right thing to do "could have" been in that scenario. I know I had no clue what to do and was just throwing stuff out there to no avail. It was thick brush/timber and we were outside of that on the edge of an open meadow, and there were some cows present...we could hear them calling back and forth too.
Thanks for this thread...cool idea, and sticky'd!
-Josh
Josh,
He was at an advantage being able to see out into the brighter open area. One thing I have found is that when a bull is raking you can make up ground on them. You could have tried moving closer (If it was possible). Could you tell if it was a herd bull that had left his cows or a satellite bull? I'm thinking if it was a herd bull he may not have been willing to get any further from his cows. Also he expected you as a cow to go to him?
That is a tough one and a lot of times the decision is made in the field, in the moment.
Post by: JPhelps on May 01, 2014, 06:09:24 PM
Jason,
I'm about as green as they come when it comes to elk hunting (this will be my 3rd year), and come early Sept I would rather be "hunting" elk rather than "scouting" for them . What do you look for when scouting this time of year, and can you take me through the following months leading up to opening day?
Respectfully,
Tm
From the Computer: Areas that have food, water and bedding. Hidden pockets away from pressure
Boots on the Ground: Rubs, Tracks/Trails (depending on where you hunt some elk NEVER migrate), and real elk.
As season gets closer keep asking questions and I will keep you updated with my scouting progression and what I'm doing (exploring new areas, setting cams, finding elk and patterning).
Post by: WapitiTalk1 on May 01, 2014, 06:39:10 PM
Post by: JPhelps on May 01, 2014, 10:01:21 PM
Start of with a needy estrus whine immediately followed by a Challenge Bugle.
I try painting the picture "one of your cows on the outskirts of the herd is going into estrus and this new bull is taking her". This works best when you can close the distance to 60-100 yards (that is the caller). I love 2 man calling setups but what happens when the "threat" moves itself to 150 yards while the shooter is at 80 or 100? In my opinion you have slightly stacked the odds against your setup.
Post by: Lingcod on May 01, 2014, 10:20:20 PM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on May 02, 2014, 12:31:38 PM
Jason-
Meant to ask you this a few weeks ago and never got around to it.
We had a bull I called in last fall stop in thick timber and start raking trees. I could see the trees swaying, he came in silent and hung up. He was about 60-70 yards and we couldn't see him. This went on for 10-15 minutes and eventually he wandered off. I could cow call and he'd start raking again for a short time, then stop. Cow call again, he'd get all wadded up and tear into the tree. Eventually I stopped all together thinking maybe he'd walk out or move or something to where we could see him....nothing. I tried a wimpy sounding bugle and got nothing. Eventually the wind swirled and he busted, but he busted calmly...just kinda trotted off. Just curious what the right thing to do "could have" been in that scenario. I know I had no clue what to do and was just throwing stuff out there to no avail. It was thick brush/timber and we were outside of that on the edge of an open meadow, and there were some cows present...we could hear them calling back and forth too.
Thanks for this thread...cool idea, and sticky'd!
-Josh
Quote
Jackelope ...I know you ask Jason the question but I am sure there is more than one answer :chuckle: I would have let him walk off and moved into where he was and try calling again :twocents: just like if I was turkey hunting ...
My opinion this shows a common situation.
An elk knows where the sound came from, and is at least as smart as I am.
I dont want to be seen, the elk wants to see something before it will show itself, so it "displays" by raking.
I do this all the time, I get set-up in a good vantage point where I can see, have plenty of shooting lanes, but the elk wont come past a certain point. :bash:
I would stop and evaluate the wind, do a big circle to get downwind, move as close as the thick stuff as I could to break up my outline, and force my scent away, and look for a trail to follow, move into area where, if you see an elk, it will be in range, then some excited cow calls followed by some raking of your own..... :dunno:
They never do what you want them to anyways.
Post by: Big6bull on May 02, 2014, 02:49:10 PM
Thanks
Post by: JPhelps on May 02, 2014, 02:54:33 PM
We try to call as a team as much as possible, but I've had a lot of luck calling solo as well. Try to setup up with good shooting lanes out in front of you. It's not worth getting yourself into a position to quick and then not being able to get a shot off. Use the terrain and wind to your advantage and predict where the elk will end up.
Post by: fair-chase on May 02, 2014, 03:30:57 PM
It's the first week of October and the herds you have scouted have vanished. Likely due to pressure from archery and special draw hunters. Hunting grounds are steep and thick. There's not enough breakup in the canopy to allow for effective glassing in most areas (think extreme NE corner or Peninsula type ground). Very few logging roads so most travel is strictly cross country without a trail system.
Questions:
(1) What is your preferred method for locating the elk this late in the breeding season.
(2) How would you navigate this terrain in search of elk? Would you stay on ridge tops in order to move fast(er) and cover ground? Side hill at expected holding elevations? Creek bottoms to look for tracks?
(3) If using calls to locate, what type and how aggressive in cold calling/locating situations?
Post by: BUTTER on May 03, 2014, 12:53:39 PM
Post by: 6haase6 on May 03, 2014, 01:29:31 PM
Post by: JPhelps on May 03, 2014, 02:47:59 PM
Situation:
It's the first week of October and the herds you have scouted have vanished. Likely due to pressure from archery and special draw hunters. Hunting grounds are steep and thick. There's not enough breakup in the canopy to allow for effective glassing in most areas (think extreme NE corner or Peninsula type ground). Very few logging roads so most travel is strictly cross country without a trail system.
Questions:
(1) What is your preferred method for locating the elk this late in the breeding season.
(2) How would you navigate this terrain in search of elk? Would you stay on ridge tops in order to move fast(er) and cover ground? Side hill at expected holding elevations? Creek bottoms to look for tracks?
(3) If using calls to locate, what type and how aggressive in cold calling/locating situations?
1)Locator bugles will still work or listening for bulls to bugle on their own from a vantage point. The best case scenario is that you know the ground and have an idea where the elk are at. Where they are feeding, bedding and watering. Then slip into these areas at the right time of day
2)Very dependent. This is where hunters need to adapt. I would most likely start on the ridge line and try and cut some tracks. If that wasn't working I would drop to mid slope and then the bottom until I find elk. I would focus on large chunks of topo/vegetation change i.e; benches, bowls, clear cuts, etc...
3)I would locate bugle often and loud. The thick timber will rob you of volume and you really can't hurt anything through a locator bugle.
Post by: JPhelps on May 03, 2014, 02:51:48 PM
Hey Jason here's a question for you and your thoughts we killed a bull last season after chasing him for a few days. Everyday for the first three days he would bugle but it was apparent he kept moving his cows like usual we would try and move closer and same sequence he would take off we finally changed it up and bugled to him he answered as usual but this time we didn't call back and just went right in on him and not.making another peep we got within bow range and took him and one if his cows. I quess my question is how long would you attempt to call in a herd bull before deciding to do such a method?
Were you calling on your way to the bull? I always locate, be quiet and get 60-100 yards away (especially on a herd bull).
I don't know if you were calling or not on the first three days attempts, but calling as you approach the bull will almost always result in him gathering his cows and getting out of there.
Post by: JPhelps on May 03, 2014, 02:56:29 PM
Ok chances are good my cousin will draw a branched bull tag this year. When I had mine in 2012 we set cameras out with salt only. We had bulls all summer on the camera down towards the bottom of a canyon in the thick reprod there was a crick in the very bottom and a stagnant pond we thought they would use as a wallow. We had cows and little bulls at the top of the ridge in the more open trees on just salt. We lost the bulls in mid august and lost the cows as season started (guessing due to traffic the camera was within ear shot of a road). We hadn't seen sign of beef cows all summer around the cam with the bulls on it but when we got there for season there was a herd of beef cows in the area. Ok now for my questions did the bulls leave because of these beef cows or some other reason? Oh yea forgot to say these bulls left right at the time they would be stripping velvet. What should we do or look for to try and keep these bulls around or find out where they are going. I did end up harvesting a bull that we had never seen that was probably within a mile of the camera that had the bulls on it. Only hunted elk in September that one year so we are pretty new at it so any and all input will be more than helping.
The bulls will almost always go find the cows. Look at the lay of the land on a topo map and try and figure out where they could be going. If you want I can take a look at the area and give you some ideas (Don't worry I won't share any info if you want to PM me).
The beef could have affected them but a lot of times they don't bother them.
Post by: BenC567 on May 03, 2014, 03:04:39 PM
I freaking suck as using diaphragm calls. I can't keep them in my mouth without gagging and can barely ever get a sound out of them. What is the smallest/easiest diaphragm you sell? I have trimmed up calls before but still can't get them work. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Ben
Post by: JPhelps on May 03, 2014, 03:55:02 PM
The smallest diaphragm I sell is size small, which is a youth diaphragm. I can also set my tape cutter to shorten up the tape.
I also recommend you try the Bugling Bull mini master or Primos mini if you haven't already.
Post by: BenC567 on May 03, 2014, 04:14:05 PM
Ben,
The smallest diaphragm I sell is size small, which is a youth diaphragm. I can also set my tape cutter to shorten up the tape.
I also recommend you try the Bugling Bull mini master or Primos mini if you haven't already.
Thanks! I'll put an order in the next few days.
Post by: steeliedrew on May 04, 2014, 05:50:25 AM
Drew,
High Narrow palates are tough. I offer a youth small frame that fits high in the palate. Have you tried bugling bull mini master tone top? That should give you an even better fit than the green all star.
Jason,
I'll have to order some of the youth frame ones from you and give them a shot soon. I check out that mini master as well. RadSav PM'd me and said he has a great fix for high palate issues and would post it on here. I'm intrigued. Also, will you be doing any seminars this summer aside from the one over on Bainbridge Island?
Thank you,
Drew
Post by: JPhelps on May 04, 2014, 09:06:39 AM
Post by: steeliedrew on May 04, 2014, 10:51:53 AM
Post by: Solohunter84 on May 04, 2014, 10:56:26 AM
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Post by: BUTTER on May 06, 2014, 01:37:01 PM
Post by: JPhelps on May 07, 2014, 08:13:34 AM
Post by: luvmystang67 on May 07, 2014, 08:38:52 AM
Post by: Russ McDonald on May 07, 2014, 08:45:19 AM
Post by: Russ McDonald on May 17, 2014, 08:10:15 PM
Post by: JPhelps on May 17, 2014, 08:25:00 PM
I usually always call but I also want to hear what is going on. So I will typically call intermittently while listening in between short calls.
Post by: Russ McDonald on May 17, 2014, 08:41:29 PM
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on May 18, 2014, 08:24:11 AM
Post by: northwesthunter84 on May 18, 2014, 07:28:48 PM
Post by: olsy on May 18, 2014, 09:18:40 PM
Post by: Odell on June 17, 2014, 07:25:40 AM
Post by: Russ McDonald on June 17, 2014, 08:08:49 AM
Post by: JPhelps on June 17, 2014, 09:34:44 AM
Jason, I only have a couple years experience hunting elk and have never attempted calling. What would you recommend to a beginner who will be hunting bulls in early september? I was on your website but had no idea what I should get. Thanks!
An external like the E-Z-Estrus will be a very easy to use cow call.
For diaphragms a good all around package would be the pleading hotty, signature bull and dragon slayer (the mediums for most unless you know you have a large or small palate). I also highly recommend that if you are just learning to also try a mellow yellow or raging bull diaphragm.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a bugle tube for September hunting. The diaphragms can be used or the conqueror mouth piece can be used to cut down the learning curve.
The good news is there is a ton of time before season to master the diaphragms. :tup:
Post by: JPhelps on June 17, 2014, 09:37:46 AM
On the diaphram call do you hold near the back of the top of your mouth or to the front. You sold me some good univeral calls. I have trying like crazy to get some sort of cow call out of the diaphram. I think I got the bull calling down. Not very good but I got it.
Russ,
As far forward as you can. Start with more tongue pressure and relax your tongue to transition into the lower note.
Post by: jstone on June 17, 2014, 11:26:28 AM
Post by: JPhelps on June 17, 2014, 11:41:22 AM
All 3 spikes I've called in have been in a cold calling setup.
Post by: WAcoueshunter on June 17, 2014, 11:58:38 AM
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on June 17, 2014, 02:18:59 PM
Jason, I only have a couple years experience hunting elk and have never attempted calling. What would you recommend to a beginner who will be hunting bulls in early september? I was on your website but had no idea what I should get. Thanks!
An external like the E-Z-Estrus will be a very easy to use cow call.
For diaphragms a good all around package would be the pleading hotty, signature bull and dragon slayer (the mediums for most unless you know you have a large or small palate). I also highly recommend that if you are just learning to also try a mellow yellow or raging bull diaphragm.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a bugle tube for September hunting. The diaphragms can be used or the conqueror mouth piece can be used to cut down the learning curve.
The good news is there is a ton of time before season to master the diaphragms. :tup:
Just grabbed a tube with the phelps logo, a mellow yellow and a signature locater from your website. Just like to say thanks. :tup:
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on June 18, 2014, 10:01:47 AM
Post by: Russ McDonald on June 18, 2014, 01:10:11 PM
I seem to get better sound when it is near the back then the front. Maybe it is me be used to turkey calls which I am not bad with. Thanks for all the answers and tips for everyone too :tup:On the diaphram call do you hold near the back of the top of your mouth or to the front. You sold me some good univeral calls. I have trying like crazy to get some sort of cow call out of the diaphram. I think I got the bull calling down. Not very good but I got it.
Russ,
As far forward as you can. Start with more tongue pressure and relax your tongue to transition into the lower note.
Post by: JPhelps on June 18, 2014, 01:45:58 PM
So yesterday I bought a ground blind. Have you even used one elk hunting? Do you have any tips on killing elk out of it? I like the aggressive approach that you have talked about. I run and gun. But I think I have a water hole with a huge trail leading to it. It's located where the elk will go when pressured. Set ups cold calling happen to quick to set it up. I would think calling in the blind in range of elk would be extremely effective. What's your thoughts Jason?
I've never hunted out of a ground blind, but if I did I would setup over a watering hole, wallow or a heavily used trail between bedding and feeding.
I would probably stick to cow talk most of the time with a locate bugle as I was approaching or leaving the blind.
Post by: JPhelps on June 18, 2014, 01:47:23 PM
I seem to get better sound when it is near the back then the front. Maybe it is me be used to turkey calls which I am not bad with. Thanks for all the answers and tips for everyone too :tup:On the diaphram call do you hold near the back of the top of your mouth or to the front. You sold me some good univeral calls. I have trying like crazy to get some sort of cow call out of the diaphram. I think I got the bull calling down. Not very good but I got it.
Russ,
As far forward as you can. Start with more tongue pressure and relax your tongue to transition into the lower note.
Definitely use what works for you. We all have different shaped mouths and apply tongue pressure different.
Post by: grundy53 on June 18, 2014, 02:11:13 PM
sent from my typewriter
Post by: hntrspud on June 18, 2014, 02:30:02 PM
Post by: WAcoueshunter on June 18, 2014, 02:56:22 PM
So yesterday I bought a ground blind. Have you even used one elk hunting? Do you have any tips on killing elk out of it? I like the aggressive approach that you have talked about. I run and gun. But I think I have a water hole with a huge trail leading to it. It's located where the elk will go when pressured. Set ups cold calling happen to quick to set it up. I would think calling in the blind in range of elk would be extremely effective. What's your thoughts Jason?
I've never hunted out of a ground blind, but if I did I would setup over a watering hole, wallow or a heavily used trail between bedding and feeding.
I would probably stick to cow talk most of the time with a locate bugle as I was approaching or leaving the blind.
My buddies from down south use a lot of ground blinds and tree stands in AZ and NM where water is scarce, and I've done the same when I've had tags down there. They'll chase bugles in the morning and try to intercept between feeding and bedding areas, but then they switch to stands for the afternoon/evening so they're not bumping the elk out of bedding areas. It can be super effective if you have the right spot, and you have to have patience and be able to remain ready.
Here's the view from one of my setups from a 2012 Gila hunt.
Post by: JPhelps on June 18, 2014, 03:01:22 PM
If you have seen certain bulls in a particular area during the rut in the past, are they likely to rut in the same area year after year? Or do they just find their cows where they can?
In my experience in the Willipa Hilss the bulls seem to always end up in the same general area.
The majority of the bulls in the cascades end up in the same area but I've also found certain bulls a basin or two over from where they were the year before.
Post by: jclancy on June 24, 2014, 09:02:59 PM
Post by: JPhelps on June 24, 2014, 09:13:05 PM
Hey guys, so quick question this is my first year really getting back into archery and the first time hunting the west/south side. Any heads up or some pointers would be great, im not looking for your honey holes. Not affraid of putting our boots on the ground and getting in where most guys wont dare. A little direction on a decent area would be great, thanks guys
The majority of the Southwest corner is controlled by Weyco and an access permit is needed. That is where I did the majority of my hunting.
Post by: jclancy on June 25, 2014, 10:04:37 AM
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on June 25, 2014, 12:16:31 PM
Post by: jclancy on June 25, 2014, 01:11:16 PM
Post by: chester on June 25, 2014, 01:59:52 PM
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Post by: Backstrap on July 01, 2014, 12:19:48 PM
Toutle unit, early rifle tag (last week of Sept). Tree farms gates are closed, resulting in heavy archery pressure on state land. You have 5 days. I'd expect the animals to be stirred up. Will they be talking? Will they respond to a locator bugle? Best to cover miles and look for herds in clearcuts? Or better to get down in the heavy cover? Or none of the above? For the treefarm, any tricks to knowing which gates will be open on a given morning? Thanks, and good hunting...
Post by: JPhelps on July 01, 2014, 02:45:35 PM
How many others have that tag?
The elk should be very vocal that time of year and I would definitely try and locate using location bugles.
Post by: Backstrap on July 01, 2014, 08:55:46 PM
Post by: ELKBURGER on July 07, 2014, 10:04:54 AM
Post by: JPhelps on July 07, 2014, 10:22:33 AM
Yep. Cory is having me back to put on another seminar at his shop on July 18th starting at 8:00 pm.
Post by: ELKBURGER on July 07, 2014, 10:30:17 AM
:tup:Awesome!
Yep. Cory is having me back to put on another seminar at his shop on July 18th starting at 8:00 pm.
Post by: Nice Racks on July 10, 2014, 10:07:54 PM
I only have one area that I actually know and the bulls have been pretty hard to locate this year. I heard a rumor that most bulls in that area were shot last year, but I did come across a nice 6x5 that obviously survived. I had pics of quite a few spikes last year that should be legal this season, but they are hard to find also. The area has a ton of cows and spikes. If there are only a few legal bulls in the area to tend all those cows, how would you hunt them? Are the bulls less likely to respond to calling due to all of the "candy" available or would they be curious as to who that other guy is and come in to check him out?
Post by: JPhelps on July 10, 2014, 10:13:24 PM
Where are the cows? Find the cows nearby and the bulls will go to them.
I approach all bulls the same to start. Locate them using glass or bugle. Then get in close. Assuming that 5x6 is a mature bull I would be aggressive, but I'm aggressive with all of my setups though.
Give me a little more info and I may be able to provide some more detail.
Post by: Nice Racks on July 10, 2014, 10:49:52 PM
Post by: xXLojackXx on July 22, 2014, 01:00:41 PM
For $50 and a high five will you call for me while I sneak in? The quicker we get it done, the faster you can go back to killing your own masher bull :chuckle:
Post by: scottcrb on July 22, 2014, 01:16:37 PM
Post by: JPhelps on July 22, 2014, 01:47:27 PM
So being new to the game . From what I know animals like to be on north facing slopes right? Is it better to be on the north facing slope as well or on the south facing slope so.u can glass across and devise a stalking plan ?
Elk typically feed on the south slopes and bed on the north slopes, but this rule of thumb is broken all the time. In my opinion this is more accurate for mountainous habitat. Along with water and bedding they need to have water daily. I like to look for areas with all three. How I hunt them depends on time of day, wind, elk activity, etc...
In the Foothills where logging is more prevalent (feed on all slopes) and water is everywhere they are where you find them.
Post by: Damnimissed on July 22, 2014, 01:55:15 PM
Thanks - Ron
Post by: JPhelps on July 22, 2014, 01:59:54 PM
Jason, I'm wanting to get a diaphragm call for locating elk. I was wondering if they would work with me having a partial, which fits in the roof of my mouth? Or will I have to take my teeth out, and will that cause any problems? Also, what call do you recommend for locating early muzzloader Rosies?
Thanks - Ron
It really depends on the partial. Some guys can and some can't.
For early muzzleloader season I would use the signature locator diaphragm and the EZEstrus played at a loud volume.
Post by: Damnimissed on July 22, 2014, 02:18:35 PM
Post by: Pny365 on August 03, 2014, 10:31:19 AM
Post by: JPhelps on August 03, 2014, 08:40:37 PM
I would do some scouting in early October and you will have a very good idea where the bulls will be (I don't want to ruin anyone's spot).
Post by: scottcrb on August 04, 2014, 07:45:17 AM
Post by: Pny365 on August 04, 2014, 05:25:30 PM
Post by: Pny365 on August 04, 2014, 05:26:07 PM
Post by: JPhelps on August 04, 2014, 06:17:30 PM
Hey Jason it was good seeing you down at XXX archery a few weeks ago. I got a couple questions for ya. First off I.know your mainly.a Rosie guy but is there much difference in your calls and calling structure between the Rosies you hunt and the Rockies I.hunt? Secondly is there a right way to clean and sanitize your mouth calls before using them.this season ?
Scott, I use the same exact strategy for both species. The Bob Marshall bulls and the mixed Cascade Roosevelt's I've hunted have respond to the aggressive tactics that I use. Also some very good hunters I know have successfully used these tactics in the blues, east cascades and NE corner as well as other states across the west.
I usually let the calls air dry and then store in plastic bags. DO NOT STORE DAMP. For long term storage I brush them with my tooth brush (carefully) and store them in my refrigerator once drying.
Post by: scottcrb on August 05, 2014, 09:26:14 AM
Post by: zackmioli on August 07, 2014, 07:29:09 PM
In areas that are predominantly thick reprod with very few Open areas what should I be looking for in feed. What will the elk feed on in the reprod timber and older growth?
Post by: JPhelps on August 07, 2014, 07:53:12 PM
I like hunting areas with few cuts and predominately timber. It seems like the cuts that are there have A LOT of elk activity.
Post by: zackmioli on August 07, 2014, 08:15:53 PM
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on August 11, 2014, 08:08:48 AM
Post by: hornhunter1987 on August 13, 2014, 04:00:30 PM
When in close and bugling is it important to try and bugle the same every time, or do you more match his sounds (if any). I'm just wondering if it throws a elk off to hear a bugle with no chuckles and then just chuckles and then a full on bugle followed by chuckles. Second question. I know I've heard you say when within 150yrds you like to do a estrous sound followed by a bugle but after that are you continuing to make cow/calf talk? If you could only use one call what would it be? thanks for all the info your giving up. Not many people put in the time and work you do to turn around and help friends and strangers out. super cool :tup:
Post by: JPhelps on August 13, 2014, 10:02:07 PM
So I start with an estrous bugle followed by my challenge bugle. I then typically switch to mimicking the bull I'm calling in (if vocal, otherwise I continue with my calling).
If I could only use one call it would be a challenge bugle.
Post by: bowhuntersd on August 17, 2014, 09:58:54 PM
When in close I try to paint the picture of a cow in estrus and a "new" bull has created a threat.
So I start with an estrous bugle followed by my challenge bugle. I then typically switch to mimicking the bull I'm calling in (if vocal, otherwise I continue with my calling).
If I could only use one call it would be a challenge bugle.
Sorry Jason but this might be a dumb question, what is an estrous bugle and can you give an example of when one would be used?
Thanks Shane
Post by: JPhelps on August 17, 2014, 10:27:13 PM
Should have said estrus whine.
Post by: rtspring on August 17, 2014, 10:42:14 PM
We can talk and talk elk all day long, but really each situation is diffrent. It all depends on the elk..
Plan on using that special call here soon in Oregon!
Good Luck this year!!
Kurt
Post by: zackmioli on August 18, 2014, 05:39:41 AM
Post by: JPhelps on August 18, 2014, 08:52:53 PM
As far as legal hunting times...I would stick to locator bugles and getting in tight and trying to force the bull to respond. :twocents:
Post by: zackmioli on August 19, 2014, 11:30:55 AM
Post by: hornhunter1987 on August 19, 2014, 01:55:02 PM
Post by: girlshunt2 on August 26, 2014, 10:36:06 PM
Post by: csaaphill on September 13, 2014, 12:56:20 AM
Post by: Woods_Warrior on September 22, 2014, 11:06:59 PM
Post by: SteelheadTed on September 23, 2014, 12:23:27 PM
Post by: CavemantheHunter on September 23, 2014, 12:33:50 PM
I was drawn for the multiseason elk tag this year. I hunted hard archery early season and had a pig of a bull patterned. I knew where he would be every morning and night but was outsmarted by 100 or so yards each day. The area I was hunting is SW Washington. There is no muzzleloader season there, so the next batch of hunters will be rifle. I intend to go back into the same area come opening day of modern (in hopes no one else has been there). It is about a five mile hike from the nearest access. The bull had about a dozen cows herded up and they used the same pattern/paths daily.
Do you think the bull will be in the same general vicinity come modern season or do you think he will have moved out of the area? There will have been no pressure to spook him, as I left him in the reprod the last day of archery and will be after him the first day of modern (no muzzy season).
Thanks,
Post by: JPhelps on September 23, 2014, 02:30:38 PM
Jason,
I was drawn for the multiseason elk tag this year. I hunted hard archery early season and had a pig of a bull patterned. I knew where he would be every morning and night but was outsmarted by 100 or so yards each day. The area I was hunting is SW Washington. There is no muzzleloader season there, so the next batch of hunters will be rifle. I intend to go back into the same area come opening day of modern (in hopes no one else has been there). It is about a five mile hike from the nearest access. The bull had about a dozen cows herded up and they used the same pattern/paths daily.
Do you think the bull will be in the same general vicinity come modern season or do you think he will have moved out of the area? There will have been no pressure to spook him, as I left him in the reprod the last day of archery and will be after him the first day of modern (no muzzy season).
Thanks,
The SW Rosie's will typically be in the same general spots. The small raghorns will still be with the herds but if it is a big bull (like you stated), they will typically break off from the herd and fly solo. I would probably spend the first 30 minutes of the mornings glassing and then dive into the timber. They will often times be in the bottoms where they have feed, bedding and security. :twocents:
Post by: CavemantheHunter on September 23, 2014, 04:06:29 PM
Post by: hunter9949 on October 15, 2014, 08:53:04 PM
1. Get an elk call, at minimum a locator call.
2. Check google earth for area where elk might go for water somewhere that is also near cover
3. Go there early before sunrise. Right before sun comes up do a locator call.
4. Walk closer to elk if one responds. By this time it should be light. Call until I see it.
5. Shoot.
As you can tell I don't know much about hunting elk so this may just end up being a sight seeing trip.
Post by: JPhelps on October 15, 2014, 09:52:45 PM
I'm assuming that is the November 1-12th. The elk will be done responding to calls by that time. I would rely heavily on your optics and use calls to stop elk for a shot if needed. Get to a good glassing point early in the morning, if nothing is spotted hit pieces of timber that look good or move to Older jack-fir clear cuts. That time of the year it is wet and cold down there and I would prefer to hunt the timber. Use tracks on the roadside banks to help you make good decisions on what timber to hunt.
Post by: hunter9949 on October 16, 2014, 01:39:18 PM
Post by: hunter9949 on October 18, 2014, 01:53:41 PM
Since this is my first Elk hunt do you think I would have better luck at the spot where I heard the elk last weekend (do they hang around)? or would I be just as likely to find something elsewhere. The place where I heard it had water and timber, as well as a clearcut.
We just found out that he was supposed to reserve a spot where he drew the tag and everything is taken so we can't hunt that GMU I referred to in my earlier post. So weird.
Post by: JPhelps on October 18, 2014, 10:06:13 PM
Post by: hunter9949 on October 19, 2014, 10:37:30 AM
Post by: 206dawgfan on October 21, 2014, 03:15:17 PM
"Honey; Hunting is free meat". She'll never know the truth.
Post by: CalebMcK on October 24, 2014, 04:55:21 PM
Sorry for these really basic questions, but I am a newbie at elk hunting.
Post by: JPhelps on October 24, 2014, 07:51:01 PM
I was wondering about different altitudes with elk. We hunt the east side and I was wondering if there is a certain altitude that elk like to be at at different times of the year. I know there are always exceptions to the rule. In addition, I am wondering about snow. Do they move down from snow or only when the snow gets bad. Thanks
"Honey; Hunting is free meat". She'll never know the truth.
If you are targeting specific elk that summered up high it typically takes a decent amount of snow to push them down the drainage.
Post by: JPhelps on October 24, 2014, 07:54:43 PM
In the Modern Firearm season, where should you look for the elk at? In the colder weather do they usually come down in elevation? Should you sit and wait for them, or go and try to find them?
Sorry for these really basic questions, but I am a newbie at elk hunting.
I'm assuming you are hunting the west side. Elk will be scattered from top to bottom (the old saying of elk are where you find them).
If you have them patterned and they aren't pressured sitting/waiting/glassing can be effective.
Most of the guys I know (successful hunters) will hit the brush within an hour of daybreak.
Post by: Torrent50 on November 26, 2014, 07:58:35 PM
Post by: gonehuntin68 on November 29, 2014, 10:14:41 AM
Post by: The100Road on November 29, 2014, 10:22:42 AM
Post by: JPhelps on November 30, 2014, 05:24:48 PM
Cold calling or lost cow can be effective though during late season
Post by: Torrent50 on November 30, 2014, 05:42:19 PM
Post by: D-Rock425 on March 05, 2015, 12:24:19 PM
Post by: JPhelps on March 05, 2015, 12:31:07 PM
Jason are your calling tactics any different from westside elk vs eastside elk?
They are pretty much identical. Whether I am hunting coastal Roosevelt's, cascade Roosevelt's or Rockies I use the same tactics and calls.
The biggest difference in hunting them is the coastal Roosevelt's commitment to want to stay in one general area where the other two seem to blow out and be 3 miles away if spooked.
Post by: Skyvalhunter on March 05, 2015, 12:45:48 PM
Post by: D-Rock425 on March 05, 2015, 12:54:03 PM
Post by: JPhelps on March 05, 2015, 01:12:40 PM
Jason, I have heard of some peninsula hunters jumping elk then running after them to catch up with them , have you ever used this tactic?
Not with a bow :dunno: BUT many times when I used to rifle hunt.
Post by: JPhelps on March 05, 2015, 01:13:53 PM
Here it is only march and i'm reading Guy Eastmans elk hunting the west and asking Phelps calling questions. I guess you can never know to much.
There is no offseason :tup:
Post by: _TONY_ on March 05, 2015, 01:51:44 PM
Here it is only march and i'm reading Guy Eastmans elk hunting the west and asking Phelps calling questions. I guess you can never know to much.
There is no offseason :tup:
:tup: :tup:
Post by: mjustice79 on March 09, 2015, 08:50:05 PM
Post by: JPhelps on March 10, 2015, 06:45:48 AM
Post by: mjustice79 on March 10, 2015, 08:12:48 PM
Post by: bowtechian on March 19, 2015, 01:45:33 PM
Post by: JPhelps on March 19, 2015, 02:11:09 PM
Post by: bowtechian on March 20, 2015, 12:17:50 AM
Post by: huntingbaldguy on March 20, 2015, 04:30:48 AM
Post by: JPhelps on March 20, 2015, 08:11:45 AM
Biology & tatics grew up rifle hunting Mt & made the switch last yr to archery (was only able to hunt late season) I must say it was a bit humbling totally different ball game
Bowtechian,
I mainly concentrate on early season hunting using calls and the rut to my advantage. As far as early season my tactics are very similar to Rocky Mountain bulls.
The biggest difference in my opinion is the Roosevelt Elk likes their "home" area and seem more resistance to moving when hunted or spooked (take advantage of the cover) where a Rocky Mountain bull will move 2-3 miles when pressured.
Also in some areas Roosevelt's may not be as vocal but rather than it being a characteristic of Roosevelt's my opinion is that it has more to do with competition from surrounding satellite bulls.
Post by: JPhelps on March 20, 2015, 08:17:04 AM
For Roosevelt elk early archery, my wife and i will be hunting it for the first time. She is brand new to hunting, i hunted Modern for 2 years pretty successfully i would say, but didn't do much calling. If you were to recommend a series of beginner calls that both her and i should have on us during the hunt, it'd be much appreciated. There's so much out there that i'm a bit overwhelmed on what's necessity and just good to have in the arsenal. I own ELK101 and a few other elk vids, i do a lot of research and google maps and in person scouting, i know the general area i will be hunting and i have a ton of confidence we can find elk.
Huntingbaldguy,
Elk calls are different for all users. One caller may sound amazing using one call and sound horrible with the next, but I will give you some recommendations.
I would recommend the Elk Commander, The Boss and Dragon Slayer (in medium) Also the mellow yellow or Raging Bull may be a good option if you decide you like the palate plate better. You will also want a grunt tube to go along with those diaphragms.
I would also recommend an EZEstrus cow call. They are easy to use and have been very effective at luring bulls in.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Post by: bowtechian on March 20, 2015, 12:15:59 PM
Post by: JPhelps on March 20, 2015, 01:50:00 PM
Post by: huntingbaldguy on March 23, 2015, 03:05:37 AM
For Roosevelt elk early archery, my wife and i will be hunting it for the first time. She is brand new to hunting, i hunted Modern for 2 years pretty successfully i would say, but didn't do much calling. If you were to recommend a series of beginner calls that both her and i should have on us during the hunt, it'd be much appreciated. There's so much out there that i'm a bit overwhelmed on what's necessity and just good to have in the arsenal. I own ELK101 and a few other elk vids, i do a lot of research and google maps and in person scouting, i know the general area i will be hunting and i have a ton of confidence we can find elk.
Huntingbaldguy,
Elk calls are different for all users. One caller may sound amazing using one call and sound horrible with the next, but I will give you some recommendations.
I would recommend the Elk Commander, The Boss and Dragon Slayer (in medium) Also the mellow yellow or Raging Bull may be a good option if you decide you like the palate plate better. You will also want a grunt tube to go along with those diaphragms.
I would also recommend an EZEstrus cow call. They are easy to use and have been very effective at luring bulls in.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Do women typically go with the small size diaphragms? I need a set for her and for myself and thinking just a single grunt tube.
Also, i don't know what you mean by palate plate. I'm assuming it's a different type of diaphragm but I'm new to all these calls and stuff.
Post by: JPhelps on March 23, 2015, 06:39:44 AM
The palate plate is made by Primos and Bugling Bull and has a shelf above the latex. I sell the raging bull, the challenge and mellow yellow on my website and all 3 have a palate plate.
Post by: huntingbaldguy on March 24, 2015, 04:52:00 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on July 02, 2015, 08:14:52 AM
Post by: grundy53 on July 02, 2015, 09:17:57 AM
Post by: JPhelps on July 02, 2015, 10:43:53 AM
Post by: grundy53 on July 02, 2015, 11:36:55 AM
We might head down there.If you do you should bring a raging bull and a Dragon slayer. I'll buy them.
Post by: KNOPHISH on July 02, 2015, 11:42:12 AM
I drew the Peaches rifle bull tag so I'll be there after all the Quality, Bow, & muzzys guys. Can you PM me GPS coordinates, :chuckle: heh heh just kidding. I've heard elk bugle during rifle season only once so figure bugling is out. Would you try bugling or only cow calls? What type of calling sequence & best diaphram? I think I can use one without spooking elk. Thanks
Post by: JPhelps on July 02, 2015, 03:43:22 PM
Hi Jason,
I drew the Peaches rifle bull tag so I'll be there after all the Quality, Bow, & muzzys guys. Can you PM me GPS coordinates, :chuckle: heh heh just kidding. I've heard elk bugle during rifle season only once so figure bugling is out. Would you try bugling or only cow calls? What type of calling sequence & best diaphram? I think I can use one without spooking elk. Thanks
I have a bad memory ;)
We had Bulls bugling in there on October 23rd in 2011. I would personally probably locate bugle if I wasn't able to spot something. Also that time of year cow calling can be productive to lure Bulls in.
Right now the boss and dragon slayer are my go to diaphragms but for cow calling the signature cow or elk commander are pretty good.
Post by: growler on July 13, 2015, 07:53:50 PM
Post by: JPhelps on July 13, 2015, 09:56:07 PM
I have a Dayton archery bull tag and am less than stellar with a diaphragm call, despite practice. My hunting partner is pretty good with the calls and I will be depending on him for most of the calling. I am wanting a call that I can make sound right to stop a bull while I am at full draw or have both my hands on my bow. I have three mouth calls that all sound like crap or more likely I make sound like crap. Do you have a suggestion for a hands free mouth call that is pretty easy or easier to make cow sounds?
The elk commander is a very easy to use and accurate diaphragm. :tup:
Post by: Big6bull on July 14, 2015, 09:32:14 AM
Post by: JPhelps on July 14, 2015, 12:35:42 PM
Jason, let's say you locate a bill you get in close, you start calling and he is commiting. However he does not come to your shooting lane/lanes. Hes closing the distance as you realize you will not be able to get a shot. Do you risk sticking it out and hope somehow you get a shot out? Or if you back out slowly how do you go about reingaging?
If I'm close enough to realize I'm not going to get a shot im going to assume he is too close for me to move. I would most likely hang tight and see what happens. Especially if the wind is good and will stay good.
I never write off a call in until the bull no longer answers me or I know he has left.
Post by: Big6bull on July 14, 2015, 08:17:41 PM
Post by: police women of America on July 22, 2015, 09:56:43 PM
1. Which way do you think is best for elk hunting? Tree stand, blind, or just sittin in the woods.
2. What kind of calls should I use for each season? And would a rattling call work on elk??
Post by: nastybynature on July 23, 2015, 09:01:27 AM
Post by: JPhelps on July 23, 2015, 09:12:28 AM
Ok I have two questions.
1. Which way do you think is best for elk hunting? Tree stand, blind, or just sittin in the woods.
2. What kind of calls should I use for each season? And would a rattling call work on elk??
1)I'm a locate/ambush/caller. It may not always be the best but it is almost always exciting. Tree stand and blind can be very effective if in the right spot. Sitting in the woods most likely won't produce very good results.
2) From about August 25th to October 15th I would use my normal calling tactics. Locating, moving in and using cow/bull sounds to call them into range. We use a lot of stomping, breaking sticks and raking trees in our setups.
Post by: growler on July 27, 2015, 08:55:26 PM
Post by: JPhelps on July 27, 2015, 09:15:59 PM
Good call on the commander. Picked one up yesterday and was able to make some pretty respectable cow sounds in short order. Got the small frame and bent it just a little to fit the roof of my mouth a little better. By this afternoon I had elk following my truck as I drove down the road. Single reed is much easier for me to use than the double reed ones I have been trying. I figure I only need to make one good sound at the right moment to stop one before I send that arrow out. Got pictures today of a jaw dropper 7x8 on a trail cam.
Awesome!!!! Just be careful that if you bend them too much you will lose the reed tension but can usually get it back by flattening it back out. :tup:
Post by: nastybynature on July 28, 2015, 09:12:40 AM
Good call on the commander. Picked one up yesterday and was able to make some pretty respectable cow sounds in short order. Got the small frame and bent it just a little to fit the roof of my mouth a little better. By this afternoon I had elk following my truck as I drove down the road. Single reed is much easier for me to use than the double reed ones I have been trying. I figure I only need to make one good sound at the right moment to stop one before I send that arrow out. Got pictures today of a jaw dropper 7x8 on a trail cam.Where did you pick one up? Thought they had to be ordered online? Thinking about getting one for my son and I to start practicing with for next year on our first attempt at bow hunting.
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk
Post by: growler on July 28, 2015, 05:06:58 PM
Post by: nastybynature on July 28, 2015, 07:17:59 PM
Local hardware store in Elma has 4-5 different Phelps mouth callsGood to know! Thanks!
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk
Post by: wt on August 05, 2015, 09:33:47 PM
We're getting pretty close to go time and I've been practicing my cow and bull sounds with the mouth reeds for a while. I'm struggling with a problem, I've never seemed to iron out my ending wether making cow or bull sounds. I seam to either fade away to long or stop to abruptly. Any insite you could share would be appreciated, I feel like I'm just practicing error on that part of my calling.
Thanks, wt
Post by: JPhelps on August 06, 2015, 12:23:07 PM
Hi Jayson,
We're getting pretty close to go time and I've been practicing my cow and bull sounds with the mouth reeds for a while. I'm struggling with a problem, I've never seemed to iron out my ending wether making cow or bull sounds. I seam to either fade away to long or stop to abruptly. Any insite you could share would be appreciated, I feel like I'm just practicing error on that part of my calling.
Thanks, wt
Your calls should only use a certain amount of air and come from the chest. So when I decide I want to end a call, I think about the chest stopping the delivery of air to my mouth and now I've got a little volume to to taper off or finish the call.
On cow calls I use a "hard stop" to finish the call.
On bugles I tend to feather/transition out a little.
Post by: wt on August 06, 2015, 10:30:36 PM
wt
Post by: Muleyman27 on August 07, 2015, 01:32:08 PM
Post by: JPhelps on August 08, 2015, 09:52:05 AM
Hey Jason I am brand new to elk hunting never blown a call never been before I am going to go this year and will only have a spike only option. It will be oct 31- nov 8 what would u suggest for a call I am thinking cow call? What do u think
During that time of year I use calls to stop or settle a herd but have never had good luck calling elk in (it has happened but based on the numbers more bad happens then good). I would probably just use my EZEstrus external cow call.
Post by: Feelin Hornady on August 09, 2015, 06:49:29 PM
Thanks for all the good info you have shared on here. Couple questions for you if you would be so kind to help me out:
1. I found a really good game trail and got some trail cam pics of cows and calves moving thru just about every day in morning and evening. But, they always seem to be moving in the same direction. Do elk make loops? Just trying to figure out why they go one way and never come back as it's different groups of elk each time.
2. From the above situation, all the elk I've caught on camera (10 or so each day moving thru over the course of 2 weeks), I only saw one bull and it was a small spike. THis was from 7/25 thru 8/6. Do you think the mature bulls will move in closer to September and I should put my cam back out? I am hunting westside archery in the cascades...These are NOT coastal elk.
Thanks,
Hornady
Post by: JPhelps on August 10, 2015, 10:19:02 AM
Don't worry...the Bulls will find the cows when it is time. Typical behavior is for the herd Bulls to move towards the cows.
Post by: Speyrod1 on August 22, 2015, 08:50:30 PM
I will be hunting the west side this year. With this year being so dry, do you think that will have an effect on the bugling? I have heard the bugling/rut is dependent on the available daylight. Just wondering if the rep rod areas will still hold elk with it being dry and hot. Your thoughts? Thanks.
Post by: MLhunter1 on August 26, 2015, 06:44:58 PM
Post by: chester on August 26, 2015, 08:42:10 PM
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Post by: JPhelps on August 27, 2015, 01:40:33 PM
Jason,
I will be hunting the west side this year. With this year being so dry, do you think that will have an effect on the bugling? I have heard the bugling/rut is dependent on the available daylight. Just wondering if the rep rod areas will still hold elk with it being dry and hot. Your thoughts? Thanks.
So far from what I've seen in western Washington the elk haven't changed their patterns much. I would expect them to be in normal routines through hunting season.
Post by: JPhelps on August 27, 2015, 01:44:04 PM
Jason, I drew a observatory archery bull tag. Got an area I get into that is remote as it can be with that tag. It's opening morning on the 12th and you have a large chunk of land to yourself that you know holds several quality bulls. What's your plan of attack. Do you start a calling sequence first or would you tip toe down elk trails calling every so often looking for a response? Let's say you get a response but your hunting by yourself. How do you get that elk to come in close enough without having a caller setup behind you aways? Ordered a bugle and a cow call from you and I'm feeling pretty good with them. As far as cow calling goes is it best to pack a few different ones to sound like different elk or just stick with the one I feel best with? Thanks.
I always try to locate elk with optics first or let them sound off on their own. But if nothing is located I quickly switch to location bugles trying to turn up a bull.
I've always had luck calling elk directly into my location without the use of a caller. One thing I may do is call and then move 10 to 15 yards forward if possible.
I am a big proponent of using the cow call you are most confident in regardless of brand.
Post by: fishnfur on September 08, 2015, 10:58:10 PM
I'm relatively new to archery elk hunting and need a bit of guidance. I've got some timberland in 506/willipa hills that butts up to private commercial timberland property that is currently closed to public access (I believe - at least it is still posted as such). There are occasionally quite a few elk moving through my property during fall and winter. Mostly I'm looking for deer, but more recently keeping tabs on the elk as well. I've tried to leave the area alone except to change cards in my cams, so the elk should still pretty relaxed and undisturbed.
I got several good videos from 3 different locations yesterday as a small harem and a 5 point bull came through my property. The bull made three good rubs on medium sized alder trees in a old logging landing area that seems to get rubbed out every year. This area is above fairly steep terrain that bottoms out in wetter areas with a small creek. I grabbed my cam cards today and did just a little scouting. The elk seemed to be quiet. I heard no elk talk or bugling at all during a two-hour outing. I did a few cow calls and a two bugles from different locations and got no response, but I'm pretty sure I had an animal moving below me in one location after the first bugle. I backed out without glassing for confirmation.
It looks like it will be pretty warm for the opener this weekend, which I assume also factors into where the animals will bed and feed. Come this weekend, depending on where the elk are, I may need to try to draw a bull out of the closed timberlands and on to my property in order to get a shot.
So my questions are:
- does the recent rubbing activity give any indication of where the animals are in the rutting process? Do the elk use rubs similar to deer - marking territory? Do you think this bull and his harem will remain close to the area he rubbed yesterday?
- Should I expect with the warmer weather forecasted for the weekend, that the elk will drop down close to the flat lands and small creek?
- How would you proceed if you were unable to locate elk on this personal property and wanted to attempt to pull a bull in from surrounding benches and minor drainages in the closed portions of the adjacent forest?
Many thanks!
Post by: huntingbaldguy on September 17, 2015, 03:23:37 AM
Also, your website is down.
Post by: djnoodle on September 21, 2015, 07:19:08 AM
This was my first year archery hunting for elk. None of the elk that I found would come to a call. Not cow calls nor bugles. I would understand that if it were only me calling (as I am still not that great at calling,) but I have spoken with several people who have called in elk for many years, and it seemed like nobody could call a bull in this year.
I also heard from the same experienced hunters that I spoke to that this year the rut is 'all screwed up' in SW Washington. I did hear from one guy who was still bugling some bulls in, and he was really far in the back country, away from all roads and people.
What is your take on the rut this year and how has it affected the calling? Is the rut really that different this year and that is affecting the elk's response to calls, or is it due to pressure and overcalling and are all of us hunters to blame for them not coming in to calls?
Any answer you can give me will help me learn a little bit more, thanks.
Post by: Russ McDonald on September 22, 2015, 07:09:58 PM
Post by: Rainier10 on September 23, 2015, 10:21:30 AM
So a little question Jason. I was hunting yesterday with my buddy. He was setup a 100 yards down from me at about 6:30pm I heard something behind me but it was pretty thick and couldn't see. At 7 pm the sun had set behind the ridge I was watching and out of the blue to my left a big bark. I was like holy crap that was close but if was really close to my buddy. Finally caught site of the cow. She was big probably the herd cow, but kept barking. So I figured it had spotted my buddy. I got on my cow call. Thank you Jason!! I got her to turn back a couple times. Also did some bugles but she really had my buddy zeroed in. She came within 75 yards of him but he didn't feel comfortable with the shot. She walked off and kept barking walked off about 100 plus yards a watched us. No other followers. Found out she came in behind us down wind, what I heard behind me at 6:30, and came up and around my buddy. So my question. If a cow is barking will bugling and cow calling work? It seemed to a bit but my buddy was in between her and me.If you have a reed call you can try a questionable bark back at her. It sounds like an alert or alarm bark but it is a little softer and more sublte, not so sharp at the end. Kind of like a question. If you give that type of bark sometimes they will come a little closer to see what you are barking about. Just make sure it is more subtle when you do it, almost an under your breath bark.
Just my :twocents:
Post by: D-Rock425 on October 06, 2015, 02:56:24 PM
Post by: kentrek on October 16, 2015, 08:42:48 PM
Most of the time if a cow barks its game over. They may not always run off but chances of calling that cow in are slim. I maybe wrong on this but bulging to get a cow to come to you doesn't work much.
I actually bugled in a lone cow this year(rare), if I get barked at i usually bark aswell...then move in fast
They only know they smelled a human...they dont know that I'm the human tho
Also...if your hunting an area with lots of hunters...you can bark at them if you think it's a person...usually they do a cruddy bark back or something stupid...it's kinda funny..
Post by: scottcrb on October 16, 2015, 08:49:45 PM
Post by: Nice Racks on February 19, 2016, 02:03:57 PM
Hope all is well with you. Two archery seasons ago I got lucky and killed a bull opening morning using one of your signature locator reeds. I only did one bugle and he came in on a string and I shot him at 26 yards. This past season I hunted hard for the first week and finally got a response back from a bull that sounded to be only around 200 yards off to my 1:00 position. After we bugled back and forth a few times, I heard another bull chuckle about 250-300 yards away to my 5:00 position. I really didn't know what to do. I figured the bull that was chuckling was probably the better bull, but I decided to move up on the first bull which was closer and much easier to get to. Well that move didn't work out. I actually think he seen me right before I caught a glimpse of him going through the trees. From what you read, did I basically do the right move, or what could I have done to maybe have a little better chance at him. One thing I didn't mention was it was late morning and the thermals were probably going up towards the first bull, where as the bull that chuckled was below me and I could have stayed above him having the thermals in my favor.
Thanks for your time Jason,
Respectfully,
Tim Anderson
Post by: JPhelps on February 22, 2016, 02:27:02 PM
Jason,
Hope all is well with you. Two archery seasons ago I got lucky and killed a bull opening morning using one of your signature locator reeds. I only did one bugle and he came in on a string and I shot him at 26 yards. This past season I hunted hard for the first week and finally got a response back from a bull that sounded to be only around 200 yards off to my 1:00 position. After we bugled back and forth a few times, I heard another bull chuckle about 250-300 yards away to my 5:00 position. I really didn't know what to do. I figured the bull that was chuckling was probably the better bull, but I decided to move up on the first bull which was closer and much easier to get to. Well that move didn't work out. I actually think he seen me right before I caught a glimpse of him going through the trees. From what you read, did I basically do the right move, or what could I have done to maybe have a little better chance at him. One thing I didn't mention was it was late morning and the thermals were probably going up towards the first bull, where as the bull that chuckled was below me and I could have stayed above him having the thermals in my favor.
Thanks for your time Jason,
Respectfully,
Tim Anderson
I would have went after the bull that allowed the wind to be better. If I read that right it sounds like the wind may not have been good for the closer bull. Were you able to circle the close bull to keep the wind right?
Post by: AlbinoRhino on May 16, 2016, 07:28:16 AM
Just got some of your products and already a big fan. I've been working with reeds for a little over a year now and in that year I've gotten a passable bugle and chuckle but having a real hard time with my cow calls, estrus different tones etc.. I imagine that normally this is backwards for most people.. I just got your boss and dragon slayer recently.. Any hints for myself to make better cow calls or estrus? I've watched videos but for some reason can't hit the same notes.
Thanks again!
Post by: JPhelps on May 16, 2016, 08:28:02 AM
Hey Jason,
Just got some of your products and already a big fan. I've been working with reeds for a little over a year now and in that year I've gotten a passable bugle and chuckle but having a real hard time with my cow calls, estrus different tones etc.. I imagine that normally this is backwards for most people.. I just got your boss and dragon slayer recently.. Any hints for myself to make better cow calls or estrus? I've watched videos but for some reason can't hit the same notes.
Thanks again!
Yep you are all screwed up ;) it most likely has to do with the diaphragms. Have you tried an elk commander, signature cow or pleading hotty?
Send me a personal message and I'll send one your way to try.
Post by: jgeorgio on June 24, 2016, 12:48:28 PM
I'm looking to invest in some of your mouth reeds and get your tube. But I don't know what size frame would fit best in my mouth. I'd hate to get the wrong size. Is there a way to measure what size I'd be without buying one of every size? And are the frame sizes consistent with all the calls.
Thanks for your help in advance
Post by: bowtechian on September 13, 2016, 08:28:12 PM
I'm starting to get some inconsistent tone thru the high note on the dragon slayer any tips or could it be getting stretched out & be time for replacement
Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Post by: JPhelps on September 21, 2016, 05:57:21 AM
Hey Jason
I'm starting to get some inconsistent tone thru the high note on the dragon slayer any tips or could it be getting stretched out & be time for replacement
Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
The call may be losing some of stretch (as the prophylactic ages it will naturally relax). How old is the call?
Post by: Ghunt on September 25, 2016, 02:13:19 PM
Post by: cookingdaily on October 13, 2016, 11:32:36 PM
Post by: blackpowderhunter on February 15, 2017, 10:33:18 AM
When should your new site be up and running?
Looking to pick up a few calls to learn with. What would be some good beginner/all around diaphragm calls to start with?
Thanks
Post by: D-Rock425 on February 15, 2017, 10:42:02 AM
Jason,I picked up a few of Jason's new AMP diaphragm and I'm able to use them fairly easily. I'd recommend getting some of those to start.
When should your new site be up and running?
Looking to pick up a few calls to learn with. What would be some good beginner/all around diaphragm calls to start with?
Thanks
Post by: Bigapplediams73 on August 02, 2017, 11:54:25 PM
Post by: Hunter Dug on August 10, 2017, 12:07:06 PM
1. Do you change your calling techniques for bulls that have been called to already during that season?
2. If you locate bulls in the wee hours of the night have you noticed them to be in those locations in the morning and receptive to calling.
Any other advice would be appreciated if there are other hunters on here that have hunted the unit.
Scotty D.
S&D Skullworks
Post by: Netminder01 on September 11, 2017, 01:19:14 PM
Post by: Bigapplediams73 on September 11, 2017, 03:12:09 PM
Post by: awsmark on September 25, 2018, 01:28:38 PM
Will be greedily going through this thread later, just wanted to say thanks for donating your time and insight to help others!
Mark