There is a little bit of bugling going on the last week of August. But the majority of it starts in September. But it does depend on where you're at. Where are we talking?

Also scientifically they claim to have no idea what really triggers the start of the rut. They claim moon phase, temperature, elevation, weather, etc have nothing to do with it. But if you talk to an old timer they say temp and weather have a lot to do with it. I don't know if the weather really effects the timing of the rut but it definitely effects rut activity. If its hotter than the devils rump outside the elk might be completely silent all day long and you'll think the rut hasn't started. That isn't necessarily true, and don't put the calls away. A bull may come in silent. Remember just cause a bull isn't screaming his head off doesn't mean his hormones have shut off. A good cow call could still get his attention and draw him in even though he isn't making a sound.