Elk Hunt

Join host Cody Rich for an action-packed episode with Trent Fisher, a seasoned elk hunter known for crushing it on over-the-counter (OTC) units across multiple states. Trent shares his approach to finding elk in Oregon’s tight Roosevelt country, his excitement for a first-time Utah hunt, and the joy of taking his kids into the backcountry. We dive into tactics like the cat road shuffle, reading sign, and adapting to high-pressure units with better callers and smarter hunters. From navigating micro pockets to sharing meat with buddies, this episode is loaded with practical tips and stories to fuel your elk season. Don’t miss Trent’s take on woodsmanship, hunting ethics, and why finding elk is the real superpower. Grab your gear and get ready to hunt smarter! Timestamp Chapters 00:00 - Intro and Season Hype: Cody kicks things off, checking the record button and getting stoked for elk season with Trent Fisher in the studio. 02:15 - Balancing Business and Hunting: Discussing the chaos of July and August in the hunting industry, cashing in family bonus points, and gearing up for multiple hunts. 05:30 - Why Utah for OTC?: Trent explains his plan to hunt Utah’s OTC units for more elk encounters, comparing it to Colorado’s tougher odds and the value of “at bats.” 09:45 - Trent’s YouTube Mission: Breaking down barriers for new hunters, showing anyone can elk hunt with modern tools like OnX, and why Oregon’s OTC is a go-to. 14:20 - Best OTC States and Strategies: Trent ranks Wyoming and Colorado as top OTC states, sharing how he targets new units and avoids over-hunted spots. 19:00 - The Cat Road Shuffle Evolved: How Trent’s run-and-gun calling has slowed down for precision, focusing on benches, bedding areas, and reading elk behavior. 25:30 - Roosevelt Elk Challenges: Navigating Oregon’s tight pockets, dealing with silent bulls, and using night bugling to pinpoint elk in low-visibility terrain. 32:45 - Finding Elk Without Bugles: Trent’s woodsmanship approach—checking bottoms, water holes, and micro benches when bugling and glassing aren’t options. 39:10 - Adapting to Pressure and Change: Discussing how better hunters and OnX have changed the game, and why finding unpressured pockets is key. 45:25 - Hunting with Kids: Trent shares lessons from taking his daughter caribou hunting and prepping his son for a Colorado backcountry hunt, emphasizing slowing down. 52:00 - Hunting Ethics and Meat Sharing: Trent’s code for splitting meat with buddies—front quarters, backstraps, or 50/50 for tough pack-outs. 58:15 - Moose and Elk Meat Talk: Stories of donating moose meat in Alaska, comparing elk to ribeyes, and why one old bull was inedible. 1:04:30 - Gear Favorites and Elk Week: Trent’s take on Born Primitive, First Lite, and Stone Glacier gear, plus a plug for their Elk Week video series. 1:09:00 - Wrap-Up and Season Wishes: Cody and Trent look forward to the Utah film, kid adventures, and crushing it in multiple states. Sponsor Copy Brought to You by OnX HuntPlan smarter, hunt harder with OnX Hunt, the ultimate tool for elk hunters. With Elite Membership, you get nationwide land ownership maps, Huntin’ Fool’s e-Magazine, Terrain X, and research tools to find those hidden pockets Trent talks about. OnX helps you scout micro benches and navigate high-pressure units like a pro. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20% on your Elite Membership. Get out there and find your elk! Powered by Maven OpticsSpot that bull before he spots you with Maven Optics, a Wyoming-based, direct-to-consumer brand delivering top-tier clarity without the markup. Cody relies on Maven’s B Series binoculars and S3 Spotting scope to find more elk. No middleman, just premium optics built for hunters. Check out the B Series at www.mavenbuilt.com and use code TRO for a bonus gift. See the difference with Maven! Three Key Takeaways Finding Elk is the Superpower: Trent emphasizes that locating elk is the hardest part of hunting, especially in high-pressure OTC units. Mastering woodsmanship—reading tracks, rubs, and micro benches—lets you zero in on elk where others give up, turning tough units into opportunities. Adapt to Pressure with Micro Pockets: With better hunters and tools like OnX, success comes from finding overlooked pockets just beyond the crowd. Trent’s cat road shuffle and willingness to drive hours to new spots show how mobility and persistence beat pressure. Slow Down for Kids, Speed Up for Elk: Taking kids hunting requires patience and relearning basics, but it reignites your own passion. Meanwhile, covering ground fast to find elk, then slowing for the kill, is key—especially when balancing family and hunting.

Hey folks, Cody Rich here from The Elk Hunt Podcast. Man, what a killer episode we just dropped with my buddy Eric Chesser from Hush. We dive deep into the mental grind of elk hunting, sharing stories from low-success units, boundary games, and that never-give-up attitude that turns tough hunts into triumphs. Eric's an absolute elk slayer who's all about challenging himself on OTC tags and hard-to-draw spots, and we break down tactics like ambushing herds, tree saddles, and willing success into existence. If you're gearing up for elk season, this one's packed with real talk to get you fired up and focused. Timestamp Chapters 00:00 - Intro and Sponsors: Shoutouts to OnX Hunt and Maven Optics, plus a quick plug for elite memberships and killer gear. 02:45 - Welcoming Eric Chesser: Catching up on why we've never podcasted before and diving into Eric's elk hunting journey. 05:30 - The Mental Battle of Elk Hunting: Discussing persistence, positive mindset, and why time in the field beats talent every time. 12:15 - Prepping for Tough Units: How Eric scouts low-success areas, focuses on high vantage points, and commits to a spot once he finds elk. 18:40 - Visioning Success and Overcoming Lows: Talking about willing kills into existence, handling hunt valleys, and the power of a competitive mindset against the mountain. 25:20 - Solo vs. Group Hunting: Why Eric prefers going solo for decision-making and building intuition, plus reflecting on 25+ years of elk knowledge. 31:50 - Finding and Honing In on Elk: What makes Eric lock onto an area, combining sign, low pressure, and personal vision. 37:10 - Tree Saddles and Early Season Tactics: Eric's challenge-driven approach to water holes, wallows, and why saddles are a game-changer for mobile setups. 43:25 - Boundary Games and Private Edges: Patience, persistence, and aggressive moves when elk finally cross onto public. 49:00 - Ambushing Herds and Reading Elk: Quick decisions, cutting off moving groups, and analyzing body language to get in tight. 55:30 - Huntability and Big Bull Habits: Choosing terrain for stocks, predicting pressured elk, and what makes a spot "huntable." 1:01:45 - Dream Bulls and Genetics: Defining big bulls (320+ as solid, 340+ as giants), unit-specific expectations, and personal favorites like whale tails and triple brows. 1:07:20 - Upcoming Hunts and Films: Eric's 2023 plans, redemption tags, and must-watch Hush elk films for inspiration. 1:12:00 - Wrap-Up and Outro: Best of luck for the season, plus a tease for a mid-season check-in. Brought to You by OnX HuntDon’t just hunt—hunt smarter with OnX Hunt. More than a mapping app, OnX is your ultimate hunt planning system. With Elite Membership, you get access to nationwide land ownership maps, Huntin’ Fool’s e-Magazine, Terrain X, and research tools to plan better hunts and find more elk. Cody and Eric rely on OnX to scout high vantage points and navigate tough units. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20% on your Elite Membership. Elevate your elk game today! Powered by Maven OpticsWhen it’s time to glass that dream bull, trust Maven Optics, a Wyoming-based, direct-to-consumer brand delivering unmatched clarity and durability. Eric swears by the B6 binoculars and RS.3.2 rifle scope for spotting giants in the high country. No middleman, no markups—just premium optics at the best value. Check out the B Series at www.mavenbuilt.com and use code TRO for exclusive savings. Spot what others miss with Maven. Three Key Takeaways Persistence Trumps Skill: Elk hunting isn't about being the best caller or mapper—it's about outlasting the lows. Eric and I both hammer home that success comes from grinding longer than most, blocking out doubts, and turning every day (even the elk-less ones) into valuable intel for future wins. Commit to Your Vision: Go into hunts with a clear mental picture of success—whether it's killing in a specific canyon or on a tough unit. This "willing it into existence" mindset helps push through mental battles and turns challenges into obsessions that pay off. Read the Room and Act Fast: When closing in on elk, analyze herd dynamics like cow body language, bull position, and movement patterns. Be aggressive in decisions—cut off herds for ambushes—but know when to slow down. It's all about building that gut intuition through real field time.

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, host Cody Rich sits down with elk hunting expert Aaron to discuss the highs and lows of backpack hunting, animal behavior, and the importance of patience when hunting elk. With years of experience under their belts, Aaron shares his perspective on the intricacies of hunting elk in the backcountry and offers tips on how to approach new areas, how to call elk, and when to move to another spot if you're not seeing success. Whether you're a seasoned elk hunter or just starting, this episode provides actionable insights that will help you become a more effective hunter. Timestamp Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction & Sponsor Mentions 4:00 - Aaron’s Background and Return to Elk Hunting 9:15 - The Appeal of Backpack Hunting and its Challenges 14:20 - Hunting Strategies: Patience vs. Overcalling 22:30 - How to Know When to Leave an Area 30:00 - Cold Calling vs. Mild Calling for Elk 39:00 - Scouting: When it’s Necessary & When it’s Not 46:00 - Backpack Hunting Decision: Stay or Go? 54:00 - Animal Behavior and Understanding Elk Patterns 1:02:00 - How to Adjust Your Approach as the Season Progresses 1:10:00 - Final Thoughts on Effective Elk Hunting Strategies Three Key Takeaways: Patience is Crucial: When calling elk, waiting and letting the situation unfold can often be more effective than constantly blowing calls. Getting too eager to call can ruin your chances and lead to poor results. Understanding Animal Behavior: Knowing elk habits—where they feed, rest, and move during the rut—will give you a significant advantage in finding elk and predicting their movements. Don’t Overstay in a Spot: If you're not seeing elk or hearing calls, don’t hesitate to move on. Fresh sign is key—don’t waste your time in a spot that’s not producing, and don’t be afraid to backtrack if things aren’t working. When it comes to ultralight hunting gear, Stone Glacier has you covered. Whether you’re embarking on a multi-day backcountry sheep hunt or pushing miles in search of elk, their minimalist designs keep your pack weight low without compromising on durability or performance. From tents and sleeping bags to premium clothing and packs, Stone Glacier delivers gear that’s built to withstand the toughest conditions and keep you moving. Trust Stone Glacier to go further, faster, and lighter. Check them out at StoneGlacier.com. Tricer Tripods: Looking for a lightweight yet sturdy tripod to pair with your Maven Optics? Look no further than Tricer Tripods. Designed by hunters, for hunters, Tricer offers a range of innovative, highly functional tripods. Whether you're glassing from the ridgeline or need a solid shooting platform in the field, Tricer’s LP Panhead is a game changer. Don’t compromise your gear—get the ultimate support and save 10% on your next purchase with code TRO at Tricer.com.

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, host Cody Rich is joined by the team from PNWild Podcast to dive deep into the mindset and strategies for tackling limited entry elk tags. From discussions about gear, like the mechanical vs. fixed blade broadhead debate—to the mental game of hunting elk in some of the most coveted units, this episode covers a lot of ground. Whether you’re focusing on archery or chasing rut action, you'll get some great tactical advice and insights that’ll help you make the most of your hunt this season. Time Stamp Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and sponsor shoutouts (Trier Tripods, Stone Glacier) 02:00 - Catching up and diving into the elk hunting series 10:00 - Drawing coveted tags and the excitement behind it 12:00 - The fixed vs. mechanical broadhead debate and real-world experiences 25:00 - Tactics for hunting limited entry elk tags 33:00 - Mental approaches for new elk hunters and managing expectations 45:00 - The importance of "getting at-bats" and how to manage the hunt stress 50:00 - Tips for scouting and how to approach hunting a new unit 60:00 - Final thoughts on strategies, tactics, and what to expect from the hunt Three Key Takeaways: Mental Preparation is Key: Going into a limited entry hunt with the right mindset is crucial. Expecting to grind and be patient will help manage the inevitable challenges. Don't put too much pressure on the hunt or yourself. Mechanical vs. Fixed Blades: The choice of broadhead is subjective, but confidence is essential. Some hunters prefer mechanicals for their accuracy and reliability, while others swear by fixed blades for deeper penetration, especially in challenging conditions. Tactical Flexibility: It's important to have a backup plan and be ready to adjust tactics based on the elk’s behavior and the conditions. Sometimes, covering more ground and checking different areas is more effective than sticking to one spot. Stone Glacier: When it comes to ultralight hunting gear, Stone Glacier has you covered. Whether you’re embarking on a multi-day backcountry sheep hunt or pushing miles in search of elk, their minimalist designs keep your pack weight low without compromising on durability or performance. From tents and sleeping bags to premium clothing and packs, Stone Glacier delivers gear that’s built to withstand the toughest conditions and keep you moving. Trust Stone Glacier to go further, faster, and lighter. Check them out at StoneGlacier.com. Tricer Tripods: Looking for a lightweight yet sturdy tripod to pair with your Maven Optics? Look no further than Tricer Tripods. Designed by hunters, for hunters, Tricer offers a range of innovative, highly functional tripods. Whether you're glassing from the ridgeline or need a solid shooting platform in the field, Tricer’s LP Panhead is a game changer. Don’t compromise your gear—get the ultimate support and save 10% on your next purchase with code TRO at Tricer.com.

In this episode of The Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich sits down with Dan Pickar of Eastmans Journal, an experienced elk hunter who shares an unforgettable hunt in Alaska, strategies for maximizing elk encounters, and his insights into making the most of limited opportunities. From private / public land dynamics, Dan dives into the art of elk hunting—how to stay patient, how to make the most of your gear and time, and how to use past failures to fuel future success. Whether you're an aspiring elk hunter or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with useful tactics and personal stories that will get you fired up for the upcoming season.Want to win a new Stone Glacier Sky Archer 6400, and Schnee's Timberline Boots? Get entered before August 21st.  If you are a member you are already entered! Monster Archery Bull! A Bow Hunting Dream | Eastmans' Beyond the Grid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyAtX64nOd4Learn From Elk Collective:https://eastmans.com/courses/the-elk-collective/ Time Stamps: 0:00 – 3:00: Introduction to Dan and Alaska adventure 3:01 – 8:30: Packing and preparing for the hunt, the importance of being prepared 8:31 – 13:00: The elk hunt experience – private land vs. public land 13:01 – 18:00: The impact of resourcefulness and networking in hunting 18:01 – 23:00: The value of being a good person in the hunting community 23:01 – 28:00: Capitalizing on small opportunities – hunting tips from Dan’s experience 28:01 – 33:00: A deep dive into elk calling, strategy, and understanding elk behavior 33:01 – 38:00: The importance of being prepared and acting fast during elk hunts 38:01 – 45:00: Mistakes made during hunts and the lessons learned 45:01 – 51:00: The concept of hunting “angry” and finding balance in your approach 51:01 – 56:00: Applying knowledge, the Elk Collective, and maximizing your hunting potential Key Takeaways: The Importance of Patience and Persistence: Dan emphasizes the necessity of being patient and calculated in elk hunting. He explains that many hunters often rush, but the key to success lies in taking time, understanding elk behavior, and waiting for the right moment to act. The Role of Networking and Resourcefulness: Success in elk hunting isn’t just about your skills—it's about being connected. Dan stresses the importance of networking within the hunting community, sharing information, and being resourceful to find the best opportunities, especially in private and public land hunts. Capitalizing on the 1% Window: One of the most crucial skills in elk hunting is knowing when to make the move. Dan talks about how successful hunts often come down to small, fleeting opportunities. The ability to recognize these moments and take action within seconds separates the good hunters from the great ones. Stone Glacier – Gear Up for the Backcountry Stone Glacier is built for hunters and adventurers who demand the highest level of performance and durability. From backcountry hunting to alpine climbing, our gear is designed to withstand the toughest conditions and perform when you need it most. With Stone Glacier, you’re not just buying gear; you’re investing in the next level of outdoor performance. Why Stone Glacier? Lightweight Durability: Our packs, gear, and apparel are crafted for maximum durability while keeping weight to a minimum. Engineered for Comfort: Every item is designed to provide the best fit and function, ensuring your comfort during long days in the field. Field-Tested: Built by hunters for hunters. Our gear is tested in the harshest conditions by experts who demand the best. When the wilderness calls, be ready. Explore Stone Glacier and equip yourself with the gear that will carry you further. Elevate Your Hunting Game with Tricer Tripods When it comes to hunting, stability is key. With Tricer Tripods, you get unmatched precision and durability for those critical shots. Whether you're glassing distant terrain or setting up for a shot, Tricer’s lightweight, ultra-stable tripods give you the edge you need. Exclusive Offer: Use code TRO to get 10% off your next purchase! Ready to take your hunt to the next level? Don’t settle for anything less than the best – Tricer Tripods, the choice of hunters who demand precision.

  In this episode of The Elk Hunt Podcast, we’re joined by Evan, an expert elk guide who’s spent countless hours in the field, guiding hunters and perfecting his craft. Together, we dive into his unique perspective on elk hunting, breaking down the complexity and simplifying it to a core, actionable approach. From trusting your gut to the art of understanding elk behavior, Evan shares a wealth of practical insights for hunters at all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned elk hunter or a beginner, Evan’s advice will help you sharpen your skills, tackle challenges, and avoid overcomplicating the hunt. Tune in for some real-world tips, strategies, and plenty of stories from the field as we talk about the mental side of hunting, the importance of confidence, and how to stay adaptable when the hunt doesn’t go according to plan. Time Stamp Chapters: (00:00) – Introduction: Getting to Know Evan, The Elk Guide (02:00) – The Simplified Approach to Elk Hunting: Trusting Your Gut (07:00) – Overcomplicating the Hunt: What the Best Hunters Do Differently (12:00) – The Value of Confidence in Hunting: Stop Overthinking (18:30) – Strategies for Finding Elk When They Aren’t Where They Should Be (22:30) – The Power of Repetition in Becoming a Better Hunter (28:45) – The Importance of Being Process-Oriented vs. Results-Oriented (34:00) – Handling Mistakes and Using Them as Learning Opportunities (40:00) – The Challenge of Guided Hunts: What Makes a Good Client (45:00) – Closing Thoughts: Confidence, Patience, and Experience Three Key Takeaways: Trust Your Instincts, Keep It Simple: Overthinking elk hunting can lead to analysis paralysis. Evan emphasizes the importance of trusting your gut and reacting on instincts rather than overanalyzing every situation. The best hunts happen when you simplify your tactics and just “go for it.” Don’t Overcomplicate Your Strategy: Too many tactics and strategies can confuse hunters. Evan advises focusing on a couple of proven methods that work for you, and repeating those strategies until you build confidence. It’s more effective to be consistent with a simple approach than to try too many things at once. Mistakes Are Part of the Process: Failure and mistakes are inevitable in hunting, but they’re not the end of the road. Evan discusses how mistakes teach you valuable lessons that improve your skills over time. The key is to be adaptable, learn from each situation, and keep pushing forward. Stone Glacier – Gear Up for the Backcountry Stone Glacier is built for hunters and adventurers who demand the highest level of performance and durability. From backcountry hunting to alpine climbing, our gear is designed to withstand the toughest conditions and perform when you need it most. With Stone Glacier, you’re not just buying gear; you’re investing in the next level of outdoor performance. Why Stone Glacier? Lightweight Durability: Our packs, gear, and apparel are crafted for maximum durability while keeping weight to a minimum. Engineered for Comfort: Every item is designed to provide the best fit and function, ensuring your comfort during long days in the field. Field-Tested: Built by hunters for hunters. Our gear is tested in the harshest conditions by experts who demand the best. When the wilderness calls, be ready. Explore Stone Glacier and equip yourself with the gear that will carry you further. Elevate Your Hunting Game with Tricer Tripods When it comes to hunting, stability is key. With Tricer Tripods, you get unmatched precision and durability for those critical shots. Whether you're glassing distant terrain or setting up for a shot, Tricer’s lightweight, ultra-stable tripods give you the edge you need. Exclusive Offer: Use code TRO to get 10% off your next purchase! Ready to take your hunt to the next level? Don’t settle for anything less than the best – Tricer Tripods, the choice of hunters who demand precision.

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich welcomes back Cliff Gray for a series of scenario-based elk hunting challenges. Listen in as they dissect real-life hunting situations, discussing strategy, decision-making, and the nuances that separate successful hunts from missed opportunities. From working the wind to handling chaotic herd movements, Cliff offers valuable insights on how to approach the unpredictability of elk hunting and maximize your chances for success. Whether you're an experienced hunter or just starting out, this conversation is packed with practical tips that will level up your game.Be sure to check out everything Cliff Gray at https://pursuitwithcliff.com/ Time Stamp Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Welcome 01:00 – Scenario 1: A Bugling Bull at 200-300 Yards 10:00 – The Importance of Being Aggressive vs. Observing Elk 20:00 – Scenario 2: Following a Herd Through Open Terrain 32:00 – Strategy for Lost Elk: Do You Keep Pushing or Wait Them Out? 40:00 – The Art of Glassing for Elk and How to Make the Most of Your Time 50:00 – Cliff’s Tips for DIY Hunters and Avoiding Common Mistakes 58:00 – Closing Thoughts and Advice for the Season Three Key Takeaways: Be Aggressive, But Smart: When you hear a bugle and the wind’s right, don’t hesitate—get in close and move with purpose. But, know when to stay patient and let the elk come to you without giving away your position. Learn to Adapt: Every hunting scenario is different, and flexibility is key. Whether you're trailing a herd or hunting solo, the ability to assess the situation and adjust on the fly will significantly increase your odds. Glass Smart, Hunt Smart: When you’re glassing, location is everything. Don't waste time on areas that likely don't have elk. Instead, focus on prime spots, and don’t be afraid to check them multiple times a day for the best opportunity.   Today's episode is brought to you by Maven Optics and Tricer Tripods! Maven is running a site-wide sale until July 14th! You can get 15% off using code 25-sitewide-15. Whether you're in the market for binoculars, scopes, rangefinders, or spotters, Maven has you covered with top-of-the-line gear that’s built to last. Don’t miss out—head over to mavenbuilt.com today! Also, a big shoutout to Tricer Tripods for their support! Right now, use code TRO at www.tricer.com to get 10% off their incredible tripods. These tripods are a must-have for any hunter or outdoors enthusiast, designed for stability and durability in the field. Trust me, you’ll want to have one in your pack. Now through July 15th, we’re giving away a Maven S3 Spotter and a Tricer AD Tripod with LP Pan Head! To enter, simply head to www.elkhunt201.com and drop your email to get entered for free. Want more chances to win? Sign up for the course and you’ll get 5 bonus entries for the whole year! This is just the beginning—there are more giveaways coming, so make sure you get in while you can. Don’t miss your chance to snag some killer gear!

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody and Jaden dive deep into the world of elk hunting strategy and preparation. From the latest tech advancements to the realities of scouting, they talk through some of the most common challenges hunters face during the season. They also cover some essential elk hunting tactics, including why staying aggressive is key, the importance of mastering a few reliable techniques, and how to manage information overload during the hunt. If you're gearing up for elk season and want to sharpen your skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Maven Optics Sponsorship 03:45 - Hunting Preparation: Wyoming Scout Plan 10:15 - E-Scouting: Utilizing Multiple Screens for Better Strategy 17:30 - Overcoming Information Overload in Elk Hunting 21:45 - The Power of Aggressive Hunting 30:00 - Mastering a Few Key Tactics: What Works for Elk 37:50 - Handling a Herd of Bulls: When to Go for It 45:00 - The Importance of Covering More Ground & Finding New Spots 52:00 - Strategies for Mid to Late-Season Elk Hunting 59:30 - Why You Shouldn't Overcomplicate Your Elk Hunt 1:05:00 - Rapid Fire Q&A: Common Elk Hunting Scenarios 1:14:00 - The Importance of Staying Adaptable and Committing to Your Plan 1:23:00 - Closing Thoughts & Final Advice 3 Key Takeaways: Master Key Tactics and Don’t Overcomplicate – Stick with a few reliable strategies that work and focus on perfecting them. Simple tactics like "rake and follow" or soft cow calls during the midday can be highly effective. Adapt and Make Quick Decisions – When you encounter multiple bulls or elk in a basin, be quick to act and don’t hesitate to make a decision. Sometimes, not overthinking is the best course of action. Cover More Ground, Find New Spots – One of the most powerful skills in elk hunting is the ability to find new hunting areas. Whether it's through e-scouting or physical scouting, learning to spot new elk habitats is key to long-term success.

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich talks with Jason, the creator of Wild Meat Gear, about his innovative product, the Meat Locker, designed to keep your harvested elk meat fresh. They dive into how this product solves common challenges hunters face when trying to store and process elk meat, especially when dealing with limited space and time. From there, the conversation shifts to elk hunting strategies, as Jason shares his experiences transitioning from rifle hunting to archery elk hunting. They discuss the struggles of getting close to elk, how to select the right hunting areas, and the importance of putting in the time to locate elk. Plus, Cody offers tactical advice for hunting in groups and making the most of every day in the field.ELK HUNT GEAR GIVEAWAYWe are giving away a spotter package right now at the Elk Hunt website. Head over to the site and get entered to win!  Time Stamp Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction & Giveaway Announcement Cody introduces the episode and announces a Maven spotting scope and gear giveaway. 06:00 - Meet Jason & Wild Meat Gear Jason discusses his product, the Meat Locker, and how it helps hunters store elk meat effectively at home or in the field. 13:30 - Jason’s Elk Hunting Journey Jason shares his transition from successful rifle hunting to archery elk hunting and the challenges he faces. 21:00 - Elk Hunting in Washington State The challenges of hunting in Washington, from choosing the right unit to dealing with hot weather and low bugling activity. 29:00 - Struggles with Archery Elk Hunting Jason reflects on his difficulties finding elk during archery season and shares valuable lessons learned. 38:00 - Tips for Hunting in Groups Cody and Jason discuss the best practices when hunting in groups and how to avoid making too much noise in the field. 45:00 - Tactical Advice for Improving Your Elk Hunt Cody offers strategies for covering more ground, finding elk faster, and maximizing the time you have in the field. 52:00 - Conclusion & Final Thoughts Final thoughts from Cody and Jason, with links to Wild Meat Gear. Three Key Takeaways: The Importance of Time and Location in Archery Elk Hunting: Jason shares his struggles with getting close to elk, emphasizing the need to scout effectively, choose the right location, and put in the time to observe elk patterns. The Power of Covering Ground Efficiently: Cody advises that success in elk hunting comes from aggressively covering ground—whether it's bugling at night, checking multiple areas in a day, or setting up in strategic spots during the peak hours. Hunting in Groups vs. Solo: While hunting in groups can be fun and supportive, Cody explains why hunting solo or with a partner who is willing to split up and cover more ground can lead to more success in finding elk.

In this episode of The Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich sits down with a lifelong Montana hunter Marcus Hockett of Fresh Tracks TV to dive deep into the nuances of elk hunting. From memorable hunts in the Bear Paw unit to the trials of hunting during archery season, the conversation covers everything from hunting tactics to the importance of persistence. The duo discusses how to target herd bulls, tips for early and late-season hunts, and how elk hunting evolves with experience. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights that can elevate your game.Time Stamp Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction & Lighthearted Talk About Recent Dentist Visit 02:00 – Early Montana Hunts & The Allure of Archery Season 06:00 – The Pressure of the Dream Permit: Bear Paw Tag Experience 12:00 – Finding Your Elk Hunting System & Hunting with a Partner 17:00 – The Allure of Calling vs. Spot and Stalk Strategies 24:00 – How to E-Scout and Boots-on-the-Ground Scouting for New Areas 32:00 – Insights on Opening Weekend & Early-Season Calling Tactics 40:00 – The Hunt for Big Bulls: Patience vs. Aggression 48:00 – Covering Ground & The Art of Adaptability in Elk Hunting 55:00 – Hunting in New Areas: The Value of Exploring & Growing Your Knowledge 58:00 – The Importance of Understanding Elk Movement and Their Behavior 1:06:00 – Final Thoughts and Preparing for the Next Hunt Three Key Takeaways: Embrace Adaptability – Being flexible and willing to change your approach when things aren't working is crucial in elk hunting. Whether it's switching from calling to spot-and-stalk or adjusting your plans when you're not seeing the action, adaptability is key. Persistence Pays Off – Success doesn't always come easily. Even when you find yourself hunting the same elk in the same basin for days, sometimes it's worth sticking it out. However, know when to move on and seek new areas to keep the hunt fresh. The Value of Boots on the Ground – While e-scouting is essential, there's no substitute for being in the field. Hands-on scouting allows you to pick up on signs like rubs, wallows, and terrain features that can make all the difference in planning your next move. This episode is brought to you by two of the best names in the hunting world – OnX Maps and Stone Glacier. First up, OnX Maps – the go-to app for hunters who need to stay connected and informed while out in the field. Whether you’re hunting elk, mule deer, or chasing big bulls in the mountains, OnX has you covered with topographic maps, landowner info, and the ability to mark your spots. The GPS capabilities and offline mapping make it the perfect tool to keep you on track, no matter how remote your hunt. Don’t leave home without it. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use the code TRO to save 20% on your subscription. Next, we’ve got Stone Glacier, the brand that sets the bar for high-performance gear in the backcountry. From their lightweight, durable backpacks to their breathable, water-resistant clothing, Stone Glacier is built to help you go further and stay comfortable, no matter how tough the conditions. If you’re serious about your gear and need something that won’t hold you back on those long, rugged hunts, check out Stone Glacier at www.stoneglacier.com