Quick Answer
After a .45-70 shot, track elk by following the blood trail, which can travel up to 100 yards before becoming faint. Use a compass and observe the terrain to locate the elk's last known position. Search in a circle, expanding your search area as needed.
Tracking Blood Trails
When tracking elk after a .45-70 shot, the blood trail is often the most reliable indicator of the elk’s movement. The blood trail can be more visible in areas with dry or sandy terrain, where the blood doesn’t get washed away as quickly. In these areas, the blood can travel up to 100 yards before becoming faint, giving you a better chance of tracking the elk.
Using a Compass and Observing Terrain
To locate the elk’s last known position, use a compass to assess wind direction and terrain features. Look for areas where the elk may have tried to escape, such as near water sources, steep terrain, or cover. Observe the terrain for any signs of elk movement, such as broken branches, scuffed earth, or disturbed vegetation.
Searching in a Circle
When searching for the elk, expand your search area in a circle, starting from the last known position. Move slowly and deliberately, scanning the terrain for any signs of the elk. As you move outward, increase the size of your search circle to ensure you don’t miss the elk. A general rule of thumb is to search in a circle with a radius of 50-100 yards, increasing the radius as needed based on the terrain and the age of the blood trail.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.