Beginner's Guide to the Best Elk Calls: Top Picks for Successful Hunting

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Discover the best elk calls for beginners and improve your hunting game. Find out which calls work best and how to use them effectively.


For beginners who are looking to get into elk hunting, one of the most important skills to master is using elk calls. Being able to effectively communicate with the majestic animals can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day in the woods. But with so many different elk calls on the market, it can be overwhelming for beginners to know where to start. In this article, we will explore the best elk calls for beginners and provide tips for how to use them effectively.

First on our list is the bugle call. The bugle call is one of the most iconic and effective calls for elk hunting. It is used primarily during the rutting season when bulls are most vocal. The bugle call mimics the sound of a bull elk's mating call, which can attract other bulls or even cows. To make a bugle call, you'll need a bugle tube and diaphragm reed.

If you're not comfortable using a bugle call, another option is the cow call. Cow calls are used to mimic the sound of a cow elk, which can attract bulls looking for a mate. There are a variety of cow calls available, including mouth reeds, external reeds, and push-button calls. Each type of call has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to experiment with different types to find what works best for you.

Another popular elk call for beginners is the grunt call. Grunt calls are used to mimic the sound of a bull elk during the rutting season. They are typically made using a reed and grunt tube, and they can be used to elicit a response from other bulls in the area. Grunt calls are also useful for communicating with cows and calves.

When choosing an elk call, it's important to consider the material it's made from. Many elk calls are made from plastic, but some hunters prefer calls made from wood or other natural materials. The material of the call can affect the sound it produces, so it's worth experimenting with different types to find the right fit for your hunting style.

Once you've chosen an elk call, it's important to practice using it before heading into the woods. Start by watching videos online to get an idea of how the call should sound. Then, practice making the call yourself until you feel comfortable and confident with your technique.

When using an elk call in the field, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, make sure you're in an area where elk are known to be present. Second, be patient and don't overuse the call. Elk are intelligent animals and can become wary if they hear the same call repeatedly. Finally, pay attention to the wind direction and try to position yourself downwind of the elk. This will help prevent them from smelling your scent and fleeing.

Another important consideration when using elk calls is the time of day. Elk are most active during the early morning and late evening hours, so these are the best times to use your calls. However, it's also possible to attract elk during midday hours if you're in an area with high elk activity.

When using elk calls, it's important to be safe and ethical. Always follow state hunting regulations and make sure you have the proper licenses and permits. Additionally, never shoot at an animal unless you're absolutely certain it's a legal target.

In conclusion, using elk calls is an important skill for any beginner elk hunter to master. Whether you choose a bugle call, cow call, grunt call, or another type of call, it's important to practice and experiment with different types until you find what works best for you. Remember to be patient, pay attention to wind direction, and always be safe and ethical in the field.


Introduction

If you are planning to hunt elk, one of the essential tools that you need is an elk call. Elk calls are used to imitate the sounds that elks make. With the right elk call, you can attract elks towards you, making it easier for you to hunt them down. However, choosing the best elk call can be a bit challenging, especially for beginners. In this article, we will discuss some of the best elk calls for beginners.

Mouth Calls

Single Reed Mouth Call

The single reed mouth call is one of the most popular elk calls among hunters. This type of call produces a wide range of sounds, from cow calls to bull bugles. It is also easy to use and perfect for beginners. The only downside of the single reed mouth call is that it requires a bit of practice to master.

Double Reed Mouth Call

The double reed mouth call is another excellent option for beginners. This type of call is more forgiving than the single reed mouth call and requires less practice to use effectively. The double reed mouth call is perfect for producing cow sounds and is ideal for beginners who want to attract cows.

Diaphragm Calls

Bite and Blow Diaphragm Call

The bite and blow diaphragm call is an excellent option for beginners who are not comfortable using mouth calls. This type of call is easy to use and produces realistic elk sounds. All you have to do is place the call in your mouth and bite down on it while blowing air through it. The bite and blow diaphragm call is perfect for producing cow sounds.

Palate Plate Diaphragm Call

The palate plate diaphragm call is another excellent option for beginners. This type of call has a plastic plate that rests on the roof of your mouth, making it easier to produce elk sounds. The palate plate diaphragm call is perfect for producing cow and calf sounds.

Tube Calls

External Reed Tube Call

The external reed tube call is one of the easiest elk calls to use. This type of call produces a wide range of sounds, from cow calls to bull bugles. All you have to do is blow air through the tube, and the call will produce the desired sound. The external reed tube call is perfect for beginners who want a simple and easy-to-use elk call.

Internal Reed Tube Call

The internal reed tube call is another excellent option for beginners. This type of call is similar to the external reed tube call, but it has a reed inside the tube that produces the sound. The internal reed tube call is perfect for producing bull bugles and is ideal for beginners who want to attract bulls.

Conclusion

Choosing the best elk call for beginners can be a bit challenging, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Mouth calls, diaphragm calls, and tube calls are all excellent options for beginners. When choosing an elk call, consider the type of sound you want to produce and your skill level. With practice and patience, you can master the art of elk calling and become a successful elk hunter.


Understanding the Different Types of Elk Calls for Beginners

Elk hunting is a popular and challenging sport that requires the use of effective elk calls. Elk calls are categorized into three types: mouth calls, bugle calls, and electronic calls. Each of these types caters to different hunting situations and preferences.Mouth calls are the most popular type of elk call for beginners. They are also known as diaphragm calls and are inserted into the mouth. Mouth calls produce realistic elk sounds, and they are hands-free, leaving your hands free to aim and shoot. However, they require practice to use effectively.Bugle calls are used to mimic the sound of a bull elk during the rutting season. They require more skill to master than mouth calls, but they produce a more natural and convincing sound. Bugle calls are also useful in calling in bulls from a distance.Lastly, electronic calls are best for long-range calling and for hunters who are not comfortable using mouth or bugle calls. Electronic calls are pre-recorded and produce realistic elk sounds, but they require batteries and can be expensive.

Choosing the Right Elk Call for Your Hunting Situation

Choosing the right elk call depends on several factors, including personal preference, hunting situation, and environment. For example, if you are hunting in a heavily wooded area, mouth calls are ideal because they produce softer and more subtle sounds that won't alert nearby animals.If you are hunting in open fields or mountains, bugle calls are better because they produce louder and more distinct sounds that can travel greater distances. Additionally, bugle calls are best used during the rutting season to attract bulls.Electronic calls are best used in situations where you need to cover large areas and have limited time to call in animals. They are also useful in areas with high hunting pressure where elk may be wary of human sounds.

The Benefits of Using a Mouth Elk Call for Beginners

Mouth calls are the most popular type of elk call for beginners because they are easy to use and produce realistic elk sounds. Mouth calls are also hands-free, giving you more freedom to aim and shoot. Additionally, mouth calls are affordable and require minimal maintenance.One benefit of using a mouth call is that it produces subtle and soft sounds that are ideal for hunting in heavily wooded areas. Mouth calls are also versatile and can produce a range of elk sounds, including cow calls, calf calls, and bull calls.Another benefit of using mouth calls is that they are compact and easy to carry. You can easily fit them in your pocket or backpack, making them an excellent choice for hunters who want to travel light.

Mastering the Art of Using a Bugle Elk Call

Using a bugle elk call requires more skill than using a mouth call. However, with practice and patience, you can master the art of using a bugle call to attract bulls during the rutting season.The first step in using a bugle call is to choose the right call for your hunting situation. There are several types of bugle calls, including open-reed calls, closed-reed calls, and tube calls. Open-reed calls are the easiest to use and are ideal for beginners.Once you have chosen the right call, it's time to practice. Start by watching videos of elk bugling to get an idea of the sound you want to produce. Then, practice in a quiet place where you won't disturb others.To use a bugle call, place the mouthpiece in your mouth and hold the call against your lips. Blow into the call while making a wah-wah sound with your voice. The key to producing a convincing sound is to vary the pitch and tone of the call.

Effective Tips for Using an Electronic Elk Call for Beginners

Using an electronic elk call requires minimal skill and produces realistic elk sounds. However, there are some tips you should keep in mind to use the call effectively.The first tip is to choose the right call for your hunting situation. There are several types of electronic calls, including handheld calls, remote-controlled calls, and decoy calls. Handheld calls are the easiest to use and are ideal for beginners.Another tip is to familiarize yourself with the call before using it in the field. Practice using the call at home to get a feel for how it works and what sounds it produces.When using an electronic call, it's essential to keep the volume low and vary the sounds you produce. Elk calls can be loud and alarming, so start with a low volume and gradually increase it as needed.Finally, keep the call clean and well-maintained. Electronic calls can be expensive, so it's essential to take care of them properly to ensure they last for several hunting seasons.

How to Properly Maintain and Clean Your Elk Calls

Proper maintenance and cleaning of your elk calls are essential to ensure they work effectively and last for several hunting seasons. Here are some tips for maintaining and cleaning your elk calls:Mouth calls should be cleaned after each use to prevent bacteria buildup. Rinse the call with warm water and soap, then let it air dry before storing it.Bugle calls should be disassembled and cleaned after each use. Use warm water and soap to clean the mouthpiece, reed, and chamber, then let them air dry before reassembling the call.Electronic calls should be wiped down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to remove the batteries before cleaning the call.Store your elk calls in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture or extreme temperatures. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

The Best Time to Use an Elk Call During Hunting Season

The best time to use an elk call during hunting season depends on the type of call you are using and the hunting situation. Mouth calls can be used throughout the hunting season, but they are most effective during the early season when elk are less vocal.Bugle calls are best used during the rutting season when bulls are most active and responsive to calls. The rutting season typically starts in early September and lasts until mid-October.Electronic calls can be used throughout the hunting season, but they are most effective during the late season when elk are wary of human sounds. Electronic calls can also be useful in areas with high hunting pressure where elk may be more cautious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Elk Call for the First Time

Using an elk call for the first time can be intimidating. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:The first mistake is using too much pressure when blowing into the call. This can produce a loud and unnatural sound that will scare away nearby animals.Another mistake is using a call that is not appropriate for your hunting situation. Choose a call that matches the surrounding environment and the type of animal you are hunting.Finally, avoid overcalling. Elk calls should be used sparingly and strategically to avoid alarming nearby animals. Practice calling in a quiet place before using the call in the field.

Improving Your Elk Calling Skills with Practice and Patience

Improving your elk calling skills takes practice and patience. Start by choosing the right call for your hunting situation and familiarizing yourself with its sounds and operation.Practice using the call in a quiet place, such as your backyard or a park, to get a feel for how it works and what sounds it produces. Record yourself and listen to the playback to identify areas for improvement.Finally, be patient. Elk calling takes time and practice to master. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Continue to practice and experiment with different calls and techniques until you find what works best for you.

The Importance of Matching Your Elk Call to the Surrounding Environment

Matching your elk call to the surrounding environment is essential to avoid alarming nearby animals and to produce a convincing sound. For example, if you are hunting in heavily wooded areas, use mouth calls that produce softer and more subtle sounds.If you are hunting in open fields or mountains, use bugle calls that produce louder and more distinct sounds that can travel greater distances. Additionally, use bugle calls during the rutting season to attract bulls.Electronic calls are best used in situations where you need to cover large areas and have limited time to call in animals. They are also useful in areas with high hunting pressure where elk may be wary of human sounds.In conclusion, elk calls are an essential tool for any elk hunter. Choosing the right call, maintaining it properly, and using it effectively takes practice and patience. By following these tips, beginners can improve their elk calling skills and increase their chances of success in the field.

Best Elk Calls for Beginners: Pros and Cons

Introduction

Elk hunting requires a lot of patience, skill, and the right gear. One of the most important tools in an elk hunter's arsenal is a good elk call. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best elk call for beginners. In this article, we will discuss some of the pros and cons of different elk calls and provide a comparison table to help you decide which one is best for you.

Types of Elk Calls

There are several types of elk calls, including diaphragm calls, bugles, cow calls, and grunt tubes. Each has its own pros and cons.

Diaphragm Calls

Diaphragm calls are small, portable, and easy to use. They fit inside your mouth and require no hands, which makes them ideal for beginners. However, they do take some practice to master and can be difficult to use if you have dental issues or breathing problems.

Bugles

Bugles are loud, powerful calls that mimic the sound of a bull elk. They are great for calling in bulls from long distances and can be very effective in the right hands. However, they are also more difficult to use than diaphragm calls and can be intimidating for beginners.

Cow Calls

Cow calls mimic the sound of a cow elk and are used to attract bulls during the rut. They are easy to use and can be very effective at close range. However, they may not work as well during other times of the year, and they can be less effective than bugles at long distances.

Grunt Tubes

Grunt tubes are versatile tools that can be used to make a variety of elk sounds, including cow and bull calls. They are easy to use and can be very effective in the right hands. However, they are also larger and less portable than other types of elk calls.

Pros and Cons of Elk Calls for Beginners

Diaphragm Calls

Pros:
  • Small and portable
  • No hands required
  • Easy to use with practice
Cons:
  • Difficult to use with dental issues or breathing problems
  • May take some time to master

Bugles

Pros:
  • Loud and powerful
  • Effective at long distances
  • Great for calling in bulls during rut
Cons:
  • Difficult to use for beginners
  • Intimidating for some hunters

Cow Calls

Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Effective at close range
  • Attractive to bulls during rut
Cons:
  • May not work as well during other times of year
  • Less effective than bugles at long distances

Grunt Tubes

Pros:
  • Versatile
  • Easy to use
  • Can make a variety of elk sounds
Cons:
  • Larger and less portable than other elk calls
  • May be less effective than specialized calls

Comparison Table

| Elk Call | Pros | Cons || --- | --- | --- || Diaphragm Calls | Small and portable, no hands required, easy to use with practice | Difficult to use with dental issues or breathing problems, may take some time to master || Bugles | Loud and powerful, effective at long distances, great for calling in bulls during rut | Difficult to use for beginners, intimidating for some hunters || Cow Calls | Easy to use, effective at close range, attractive to bulls during rut | May not work as well during other times of year, less effective than bugles at long distances || Grunt Tubes | Versatile, easy to use, can make a variety of elk sounds | Larger and less portable than other elk calls, may be less effective than specialized calls |

Conclusion

Choosing the best elk call for beginners depends on your skill level, hunting style, and personal preference. Each type of elk call has its own pros and cons, so it's important to consider these factors before making a purchase. With practice and patience, you can become proficient with any of these elk calls and increase your chances of a successful hunt.

Best Elk Calls for Beginners – A Comprehensive Guide

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best elk calls for beginners. We hope this guide has been informative and has helped you gain a better understanding of elk calls. Remember, elk calling is an art, and it takes time and practice to master.

Before we wrap up, let's recap what we covered in this article. We started by discussing why elk calls are important and how they can help you become a successful hunter. We then talked about the different types of elk calls, including bugles, cow calls, and locator calls.

We also discussed the various factors you should consider when choosing an elk call, such as the type of hunting you'll be doing, the level of experience you have, and your personal preferences. We then reviewed some of the best elk calls for beginners, including diaphragm calls, external reed calls, and electronic calls.

One of the key takeaways from this article is that there is no one-size-fits-all elk call. What works for one hunter may not work for another. Therefore, it's important to experiment with different elk calls until you find the one that works best for you.

Another important aspect of elk calling is knowing when and how to use it. We provided some tips on using elk calls effectively, such as practicing your calling before the hunting season, using calls to locate elk, and using different calls to mimic different elk sounds.

Lastly, we talked about the importance of ethics in elk hunting. As hunters, it's our responsibility to hunt ethically and conserve the natural resources we rely on. This includes using elk calls responsibly and avoiding over-calling or harassing wildlife.

In conclusion, elk calling is a crucial aspect of elk hunting, and it's essential for beginners to understand the different types of calls and how to use them effectively. We hope this guide has been helpful in that regard. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep practicing your elk calling skills, and you'll be sure to have a successful hunting season.


People Also Ask About Best Elk Calls for Beginners

What are elk calls?

Elk calls are tools used by hunters to mimic the sounds of elk in order to lure them closer. These calls can range from simple grunt tubes to complex bugles and cow calls.

Why is it important for beginners to use the right elk call?

Using the right elk call is important for beginners because it can greatly increase their chances of success while hunting. Elk are intelligent animals that can quickly detect when something isn't quite right. Using the wrong call or technique can easily spook them, making it much harder to get close enough for a shot.

What are the best elk calls for beginners?

There are several elk calls that are ideal for beginners:

  1. Primos Hoochie Mama Cow Call: This is a simple and easy-to-use cow call that produces realistic elk sounds. It's also affordable and comes with a DVD that teaches beginners how to use it.
  2. Bugling Bull Game Calls Bully Bull Extreme Grunt Tube: This is an adjustable grunt tube that can produce a wide range of elk sounds. It's also durable and easy to use.
  3. Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Cow Girl Elk Call: This is a versatile cow call that can produce a variety of cow and calf elk sounds. It's also lightweight and easy to carry in the field.
  4. Primos Hyper Lip Double with Tone Converter: This is a double-reed diaphragm call that can produce a range of cow and bull elk sounds. It's also compact and easy to use while on the move.

How can beginners learn to use elk calls effectively?

Beginners can learn to use elk calls effectively by practicing regularly and watching instructional videos or attending seminars. It's also helpful to start with simple calls and gradually work up to more complex ones as your skills improve.