Finishing our descent, we poke
our way along the valley floor, let-
ting the small pines act as a screen
for our approach. The soggy ground
sucks at our boots, threatening to
freeze us in place like statues.
We press on, almost in despera-
tion. Without saying a word, I know
Joe is thinking the same thing I am:
that we’re running out of time; that
the hunting gods may soon grow
tired of these two inept hunters and
pull the rug out from under them
altogether.
We enter the timber and, with
a few hand signals, move 30 yards
apart in order to make our approach.
Branches snap underfoot, but we
don’t attempt to dampen the sound;
instead, we walk in like elk would
— noisy and with irregular patterns.
We settle into our predetermined
locations, staying only 30 yards apart
so we can still communicate if need
be. I let my breathing settle, the world
coming alive around me as I do. I
hear the rushing of the nearby creek,
songbirds striking up the band and,
far nearer and far louder, my heart
pumping in my chest. The air is thick
in these pines, but I feel a consistent
and light breeze on my face.Part of learning to control
yourself on an elk bowhunt
means learning to patiently
glass for hours on end.
Better to spend time look-
ing for bulls from afar than
wandering around and
spooking them.Staying hydrated is critical while elk
hunting. Make sure to carry plenty of
water — and keep drinking regularly
throughout the day.