Book/video recommendations for cow elk hunting Because my wife does not like the taste of game I want to focus on hunting cow or calf elk. This will be my first year bow hunting and would like to learn as much as possible pre season but it seems that most books / videos focus on big bulls vs cows. So on that note would you please mention any books or videos you have come across that have info for hunting cow elk as well as bulls? As you may have figured out I have only been elk hunting for a few years so I will also be looking for good books on elk behavior. Lastly I will be hunting in Montana if that matters. Thanks -- TW
Also would anyone be willing to Sell, Rent, or Loan any of their elk hunting materials to get this greenhorn started down the right path?
In response to your original post, elk is game, whether it's a cow, calf or bull. It's not going to taste like beef, because it's not hamburger. So although a cow and bull have different genitalia, they're the same animal. That being said, it's all about the processing and preparation of the meat. If I was going to recommend any one place to gather elk information, it would be elk101.com, you're also welcome to check out my site www.elkdiy.com otherwise Google is your friend. Unless you're strictly trophy hunting elk, the general rule is you harvest the first elk that's within your comfortable range whether it's a cow or bull. If it's about saving money on the license, don't do it. Buy the combo license, yes it's going to cost you more money, but you'll kick yourself if you have the opportunity at a monster bull and can't take it because you only have an cow tag. There are many ways to hunt elk, are you planning a guided trip? If so, the guide will do the majority of the "hunting" for you, so I'd mainly concentrate on getting in physical shape and practicing shooting your bow. If you're planning a Drop camp, an outfitter will take you into the mountains and drop you off. They'll check on you every couple of days unless you call them to help pack out an animal. If you're planning a DIY hunt, you're going to need at least one partner, then you're going to have to start training, practicing shooting, accumulating gear, practice calling, learning where the elk are on the mountain, etc. Regarding, sell, rent, loan, what specifically are you looking for? Are you looking for books or gear? You also need to understand that the success rates of a novice harvesting any elk, whether it's a cow or bull are very low. I'm just not clear about what you're looking for...you've said that you've been elk hunting for a few years, but you're looking for novice type information. I'm a bit confused.
MichiHunter, thank you kindly for the great reply. I have be out with a rifle hunting elk for only two years and got lucky the first year. All my hunts have been and will continue to be DIY hunts so I am looking for book or videos that will help me learn all about bow hunting and then also about elk hunting with bows in specific. I just got bought an Elite Pulse from someone over at ArcheryTalk and should have it in a few weeks. I am still in need of a release and camo clothes but other than that I think I should be set as the guy sold me a full hunting setup. My understanding is that I have a lot to learn and that this is a very tough sport that demands commitment if I ever intend to be successful. I have told myself to give it five years and if I am still elkless then give it five more. I am very excited to learn more about these amazing creatures and bow hunting so please pass on any tips you might have as I am about as green a horn as they get. Regards -- Nippip