This past archery elk season, I was able to call 3 bulls within 25 yards (the closest was 11 yards), however could not get them to take that extra step from behind a tree. I have been hunting by myself since my hunting partner died. Any suggestions on how to get them to take that extra step, when hunting by yourself?

AL McDermott

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Thanks Robert. I'll try that sometime when I am hunting not too far out of camp.

Luck. You did what you needed to in getting them within 30 yards - the rest is luck of the draw. However, this tip might help - when you bugle, MOVE ! Seriously, elk have an uncanny habit of knowing within a foot of where that bugle came from - they are looking for you. Especially if ones coming in - move 10 yards to the side. Other than that - just a little unfortunate luck on your part

Thanks steathycat for your suggestion. However, I tried that. And your are right, they seem to know just where you are. I quess it will boil down to luck.

I think a lot of us have been there one time or another .a couple years ago I had a nice 5x5 hang up on me like that.I couldn't move and he wouldn't .Since then I would much rather hunt with a partner ,one call and the other shoot .

thanks halcon for the tip. Oh how I wished for a hunting partner this past season. That is what my old hunting partner and I use to do. If and when I find another hunting partner that I would get along with like Kelly, then I will. By the way we hunted up in your country before (twice). It was a good hunt. Maybe someday I will go back there. Thanks again.

I use an elk decoy that is flat foam and rolls up and is very light. It would be easy to lash to a backpack without adding bulk or weight. I got it through Cabelas.

Al I do`nt know if you have tried this but if you have an elk hang up and he`s coming in the dirrection your calling from cup your hand and what ever kind of cow call your using call to the left or right which ever way you want him to go for a posible shot.

txhunter, thanks for the tip, I will check with cabelas and look for the elk decoy. Thats a great idea.

buck59 thats great idea as well, don't know why I did not think of that. getting too old I quess. again thanks to both of you.