HUNTING Elk trails converge on an east Cascade Mountains creek. “Once I locate some water sources, I usually have unlocked all the clues I need in order to have an optimal chance at notching a tag,” writes author Dave Anderson. (DAVE ANDERSON)
Tips For Early Season Elk Bowhunters face tough conditions in September, but they’re not insurmountable. By Dave Anderson
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rchery hunting for elk during the early season has several challenges that seem to increase with each year, particularly east of the Cascades. September seems to be hotter and dryer, which makes for tough hunting conditions in itself. Then there are large land closures as forest managers react to wildfires or fire danger. In addition, the elk are generally quiet and not even talking for the first few days of the season. I’m not saying that they will not be talking at all, but not nearly as much as when the first cold snap hits.
When I drew my quality bow elk tag in 2016, the bulls were still flying solo and had yet to round up any cows. I will detail that hunt in a bit, but in my opinion, the number one key to success for combating the challenges of early season is to find water. Whether you are hunting for a cow, spike or large bull, one thing remains the same – they all need water to survive. Having a few to several days to scout can be crucial. I have gone into areas that were super dry with no foot traffic and spent three to four days just wandering around looking for water sources off the beaten path. Once I locate some, I usually have unlocked
all the clues I need in order to have an optimal chance at notching a tag. I was able to locate a gold mine water source after three days during my quality elk hunt. It had everything from lush grass to water coming from a mountain spring that led to a bedding area on a deep, dark north-facing slope. I seriously wanted to yell “Bingo!” when I found it. This has been something that has worked very well for me during the early archery season, but I’m sure there are other tactics that have worked well for others too.
IN SEPTEMBER, THE woods and ground nwsportsmanmag.com | SEPTEMBER 2021
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