There’s a lot more to hunting deer and elk than just point and shoot tactics. Scouting, planning, having a great kit, and even controlling your scent are all key factors that can make or break a hunt. It’s almost impossible to hide from your target forever, but there are some smart ways that you can catch your target!
The Difference Between Hunting Deer and Elk
Since deer and elk act differently, you’ll need to use different tactics when hunting each animal. While deer tend to browse near forests or along the edge of their habits, elk are grazers, which means that they’re more likely to be in open meadows. If you’re hunting deer, wait for them to come to you, but if you want to catch an elk, get ready for a trek.
Tips for Hunting Deer
- Location, location, location – In order to get a deer, you have to hunt where the deer are. Find out where there has been hunter success or where the biggest number of deer are tagged. If you don’t know how to find the best location, start with a guided deer hunt!
- Scout more – One of the best ways to succeed in your deer hunt is to scout. Observation is your biggest asset, so scout from long-range and fine-tune a strategy before you commit.
- Keep the wind in mind – Deer have a phenomenal sense of smell, so make sure they can’t get wind of you. If you’re downwind, they can’t smell you, but if the wind isn’t in your favor, don’t waste your time.
- Take a shower – We’re serious. Like we mentioned above, deer will smell you before you ever see them. Be sure to take a scentless shower before your hunt, and invest in some scent elimination products and scent control clothing.
- Silence is key – Make sure your tree stand, your clothing, and your equipment is as quiet as possible. Test it out before your hunt so you don’t spook that perfect buck!
Tips for Hunting Elk
- Get the set-up right – If you’re not concealed properly, your elk will bolt. Set up in front of a bush or something similar to obscure your outline and ensure you have a clear shooting lane.
- Exercise – Seriously. Hunting elk requires a lot more physicality than hunting deer, since you have to keep up with the herd as it moves.
- Hunt on the move – While effective, this method can also be strenuous and is not for the faint of heart. Move with the herd and you’ll have a better chance of success.
These tips only touch briefly on what hunters can do to find success on their deer and elk hunts. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a new one, you can benefit from booking a guided hunt with Oak Creek Whitetail Ranch. Have questions? Give us a call at 573-943-6644 or fill out our online contact form.
What is the method you prefer for scouting? Self scouting by visiting the points or using trail camera?
Hi John,
We use both methods here at Oak Creek. We have Reconyx and Bushnell trail cams. Our guides also scout the preserve year around.
I went to Oak Creek Whitetail Ranch years ago and I have to say that is was fantastic.
The owners and guides are just super people they make you feel like you are family.
The lodge is a very, very nice place to stay, accommodations were fantastic. slept like I was at home. The meals are great as well.
I have recommended this hunt to more people than I can remember.
I went for an elk hunt, shot a 6 x 6, 330 inch bull on my 2nd day there.
Seen more whitetail deer in the 3 days I was there than I would ever see in a life time anywhere else.
Don and Angie and there family are the greatest.
Thank you for the opportunity and the great time.
Thank you for the kind works, Wayne. We can not wait for you to get to come again.
Everything sounds great but is the ranch high fence or open range
Hi Gary,
We have both free range and a preserve at Oak Creek. The record book deer are on the preserve, that is the only place we can manage the deer to the extent we do.