Glass Smarter, Not Harder: How to Hunt with Precision with Cliff Gray

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  

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich sits down with his good friend Brad to discuss their recent elk hunting experiences and dive into some valuable tips and strategies for hunting elk. From calf calling and its effectiveness in high-pressure public lands to navigating the rut and using different techniques to get into prime elk country, Brad shares years of experience and insights that could help any elk hunter elevate their game. They also discuss the importance of terrain, e-scouting, and being prepared for every elk season, as well as sharing stories from the field that any hunter will find relatable and motivational. Tune in for a fun, informative episode packed with knowledge that could change the way you approach your next elk hunt. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction 04:10 – The Importance of Calf Calling and its Effectiveness 10:30 – Using Calf Calls in High-Pressure Public Land Hunts 15:00 – Transitioning from Cow Calls to Estrous Calls and Understanding the Rut 21:20 – Navigating Different Terrain: From Open Country to Thick Timber 30:00 – Midday Elk Hunting: Why It Can Be the Best Time to Hunt 35:00 – Using Natural Sounds and Raking to Get Bulls to Respond 42:00 – The Role of E-Scouting and Real-Time Intel in Premium Units 47:30 – The Power of Experience: Logging Every Hunt 53:30 – Tips for Hunting Premium Units and Learning from At-Bats 1:02:10 – The “One That Got Away” Story 1:08:00 – Wrapping Up and Cody’s Takeaways Key Takeaways: The Power of Calf Calling: Brad explains how calf calling, especially in high-pressure public land hunts, can help bring in elk more effectively than traditional cow calling. The relaxed nature of the call makes the elk feel more comfortable and can help hunters get closer to their target. Midday Hunting and the Rut: Hunting elk in the middle of the day can actually be more effective than hunting at dawn or dusk, especially when cows are bedded and bulls start to roam. Using calls to provoke bulls during midday can lead to encounters and increased activity, particularly in premium hunting areas. The Importance of Experience and Learning from Each Hunt: Brad shares his practice of logging every hunt to build a deep understanding of elk behavior, terrain, and hunting conditions over time. By accumulating real-world experience and tracking every variable, hunters can significantly reduce the learning curve and increase their chances of success. 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  

Podcast Description: Join me, Cody Rich, and my good friend, legendary Montana big bull elk hunter, Lucas Zemlicka, as we dive deep into the strategies, stories, and lessons learned from chasing giants in the wilds of Montana. Lucas, with years of experience and a track record of successful hunts, shares his approach to finding and hunting the biggest bulls, his tips for tackling the challenges of the season, and the mindset it takes to make each hunt a success. Whether you're a seasoned elk hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights and unforgettable hunting stories that will inspire your next adventure. Show Notes: Guest: Lucas Zemlicka Episode Highlights: Introduction to Lucas and his legendary bull hunting background. The importance of experience and knowing the land when hunting big bulls in Montana. Lucas’s strategies for finding and hunting bulls, including the importance of patience and persistence. The role of glassing and how to use optics effectively in elk hunting. The philosophy of "slow playing" vs. being aggressive when hunting elk. Stories of big bull hunts and the challenges of staying focused during long seasons. The mental and physical aspects of elk hunting—how to stay sharp and prepared. Advice for those hunting in Montana and the secrets to successfully locating big bulls. Lucas’s mindset and approach to managing expectations and making the most of every hunt. Memorable Stories: The time Lucas successfully hunted a big bull while his instincts and experience led the way. A wild encounter with a bull that led to an unforgettable experience and lesson learned. Insights on the challenges and rewards of hunting with a long-term, focused approach to the land. Takeaways: Understanding the role of patience, skill, and knowledge when hunting big bulls. How to manage expectations and avoid burnout during the hunting season. Tips on staying grounded and trusting your instincts in the field. 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 10% 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 

In this episode, I’m joined by Trapper Trussell, a seasoned elk hunter and rising star in the world of competitive elk calling. Trapper’s journey into elk hunting started at a young age, but it’s his path to mastering elk calling that has really taken off. From his early days of calling in elk with his dad to competing at the highest levels, we dive deep into his evolution as a caller, including his breakout performance at the World Elk Calling Competition. Trapper shares the nerves of stepping onto the competition stage for the first time, his strategies for calling, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. We also talk about how he balances hunting with family life, what makes a great elk hunting spot, and why elk calling competitions can teach you just as much about hunting as they do about the art of calling. Plus, we get into some memorable elk hunting stories, including his first bull and his favorite spots for late-season cow hunts. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable tips, real-life experience, and some seriously entertaining stories. Tune in for an epic conversation on elk hunting, calling, and all things in between! This episode is brought to you by Stone Glacier, the leader in high-performance hunting gear. Whether you're hunting deep in the backcountry or tackling a local adventure, Stone Glacier has the gear to keep you moving efficiently and comfortably. Their lightweight and durable packs, sleeping bags, and layering systems are designed with the serious hunter in mind. Stone Glacier products are engineered for ultimate performance, helping you stay out longer, carry more, and feel better doing it. If you’re looking for the best in outdoor gear, visit Stone Glacier's website and see what makes them a favorite of hunters and adventurers everywhere. When you’re out in the field, the last thing you want to worry about is your map letting you down. That’s where OnX Maps comes in. Whether you’re scouting for elk, navigating unfamiliar terrain, or hunting in remote areas, OnX Maps gives you the most accurate, reliable, and detailed maps to help you stay on track. With features like offline maps, public and private land boundaries, and waypoints that work even when you're out of cell service, OnX ensures you have everything you need to make smart decisions and stay confident in your journey. Don’t let anything hold you back from your next big adventure. With OnX Maps, you’ve got the tools you need to succeed—no matter where you are. Explore smarter. Hunt with confidence. OnX Maps.

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody sits down with Jeffery Row, a seasoned hunter and former guide, to dive into his experience hunting big bulls, tracking trophy deer, and navigating life as a new father. Jeffery shares the story of his epic 2023 elk hunt, his approach to scouting, and the lessons he’s learned from years of fieldwork. From managing the red zone during a stock to the challenges of hunting on the strip, Jeffery talks through his hunting tactics, the importance of persistence, and how he balances his professional and personal life. Whether you're looking for tactical advice or just want to hear an epic hunting story, this episode is packed with valuable insights for any hunter. This episode is brought to you by Stone Glacier, the leader in high-performance hunting gear. Whether you're hunting deep in the backcountry or tackling a local adventure, Stone Glacier has the gear to keep you moving efficiently and comfortably. Their lightweight and durable packs, sleeping bags, and layering systems are designed with the serious hunter in mind. Stone Glacier products are engineered for ultimate performance, helping you stay out longer, carry more, and feel better doing it. If you’re looking for the best in outdoor gear, visit Stone Glacier's website and see what makes them a favorite of hunters and adventurers everywhere. When you’re out in the field, the last thing you want to worry about is your map letting you down. That’s where OnX Maps comes in. Whether you’re scouting for elk, navigating unfamiliar terrain, or hunting in remote areas, OnX Maps gives you the most accurate, reliable, and detailed maps to help you stay on track. With features like offline maps, public and private land boundaries, and waypoints that work even when you're out of cell service, OnX ensures you have everything you need to make smart decisions and stay confident in your journey. Don’t let anything hold you back from your next big adventure. With OnX Maps, you’ve got the tools you need to succeed—no matter where you are. Explore smarter. Hunt with confidence. OnX Maps.

In this episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, Cody Rich sits down with a guest from Samong Outdoors to dive into the world of elk hunting. From early hunting days in Washington to navigating the ups and downs of solo hunting, they discuss the importance of perseverance, learning from mistakes, and the thrill of hunting elk in some of the toughest terrain. They also share insights into the Hmong community’s growing presence in elk hunting and the role of passion in turning hunting into a career. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned hunter, this episode offers valuable advice and inspiration for all elk hunters. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro & Sponsor Message Brief introduction to today’s guest and sponsor, Stone Glacier. How Stone Glacier provides ultralight gear that’s perfect for long-distance elk hunts. 02:10 - The Turkey vs. Bear Debate The guest discusses their excitement for spring turkey hunting vs. spring bear hunting. Differences in turkey and elk hunting, including a playful debate on which is more challenging. 04:30 - Introduction to the Guest & His Background The guest shares his upbringing, including growing up in a large family and his early introduction to hunting. How a love for filming his backyard chickens led to a passion for hunting content. 06:45 - From Hobby to Full-Time Hunting Career How the guest began filming hunts in 2011, starting with an iPod Touch. The challenges of making hunting content when there was no such thing as "influencers" or "monetization" on social media. Transition from hobbyist to professional content creator, even while still in college. 11:20 - The Turning Point: Social Media’s Role in Hunting The guest talks about the impact of social media on hunting and content creation in the mid-2010s. The rise of platforms like YouTube and Instagram in the hunting community. Inspiration from early pioneers like Tim Burnett, Remi Warren, and the Hush crew. 14:50 - Growing the YouTube Channel The guest explains how he started his YouTube channel, Samong Outdoors, and gained his first followers. How financial aid from college was invested into hunting gear, helping to elevate his content production. 19:30 - Learning the Ropes: Struggles and Successes Reflecting on the early years of hunting and the mistakes made while self-filming hunts. The guest shares the value of learning from failure and how it shaped his growth as a hunter. How the guest adapted from timber hunting to glassing for elk. 24:10 - The Hmong Community and Elk Hunting A discussion on the growing presence of the Hmong community in elk hunting. The impact of Pure Trophies and other groups on making elk hunting more accessible for the Hmong community. How the guest’s audience is largely made up of Hmong hunters and why this niche is important. 30:00 - A Pivotal Year: 2019 The guest’s breakthrough year in 2019, where everything clicked, and he harvested multiple animals. How going solo on hunts helped develop independence and confidence as a hunter. The guest talks about the mental game of hunting and staying motivated during challenging years. 35:30 - The Mindset of a Successful Hunter The guest discusses how motivation and passion were key to his success. The importance of perseverance, especially in tough seasons. Balancing social media and hunting to remain true to the craft. 40:00 - Advice for Aspiring Hunters The guest offers advice to new hunters looking to start their elk hunting journey. The role of patience, practice, and persistence in becoming a skilled hunter. 45:00 - The Elk Hunt of a Lifetime: A Family Story The guest tells the story of a significant elk hunt with his uncle, including the process of planning a successful hunt. What it meant to repay his uncle for years of support, making it one of his most rewarding hunts. 48:00 - The Future of Elk Hunting & Social Media What’s next for Samon Outdoors, including plans for upcoming elk hunts. The guest discusses the future of hunting content and his ongoing commitment to high-quality storytelling. 52:30 - Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow the Guest The guest shares how people can follow his journey on YouTube and Instagram. Final thoughts on the importance of passion in hunting and creating meaningful content. 53:30 - Outro & Call to Action Cody thanks the guest and reminds listeners to share the episode with a friend. Mention of the free hunt planner available for download from the show notes.

This might just be my favorite elk hunting story I’ve recorded in the last few years—maybe ever. This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Eric Vanderzanden, and he’s back with an absolute all-timer. After nearly two decades of archery hunting general season in Oregon, Eric finally drew one of the state’s most coveted bull elk tags. But this story goes so far beyond a tag. It’s about obsession, preparation, and an unexpected twist of fate. Eric has spent years guiding in this unit—helping others chase down giants, including Governor’s Tag bulls—and built a reputation as one of the go-to guys in Oregon’s “Big Three” units. When it was finally his turn to hold the tag, it came with a powerful story of friendship, legacy, and helping a man with terminal cancer live out his last hunting dream. This is a true 301-level hunt and one you’ll never forget. Do me a favor—share this one with a hunting buddy. It’s that good.