The elk hunter's year: applications January to April, scouting May to July, pre-rut in August, peak rut and archery in September, rifle seasons from October, late seasons in November and December

Your First Elk Hunt: A Year-Long Planning Calendar

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A successful elk hunt starts about nine months before opening day. This calendar lays out what to do each season so nothing important gets missed.

The elk hunter's year: applications January to April, scouting May to July, pre-rut in August, peak rut and archery in September, rifle seasons from October, late seasons in November and December
The Elk Hunter’s Year

Winter: January to April

  • Choose target states and units.
  • Buy any license a state requires before applying.
  • Submit draw applications before each deadline.

Spring and summer: May to July

  • Check draw results and pick up any leftover tags.
  • Start hiking with a loaded pack several days a week.
  • Scout on the ground or with maps, and break in boots.
  • Practice with the bow or rifle out to realistic ranges.

August

  • Finish gear checks and pack lists.
  • Practice calls daily.
  • Confirm meat processing and the plan for getting meat home.

September to December

  • Hunt the rut in September with a bow or muzzleloader where seasons allow.
  • Rifle seasons in many states open in October, after the peak of the rut.
  • Late seasons can find elk moving toward winter range.

See Where To Start and the Elk Hunting Gear Guide for more.