Quick Answer
To call cow elk in Colorado, focus on using a high-pitched, nasal cow elk call to replicate the sounds of cows in heat, and be prepared to use a combination of vocalizations and scent to attract them. Start calling at least an hour before dawn and again in the late afternoon when elk are most active. Use a call with a loud, clear tone to reach distant elk.
Choosing the Right Call
When selecting a cow elk call for Colorado’s OTC elk hunting, look for a call that produces a high-pitched, nasal sound, such as a bugle call with a raised pitch or a dedicated cow elk call with a built-in nasal chamber. A call with a loud, clear tone is essential for reaching distant elk. Consider a call with adjustable pitch and volume to mimic the various sounds made by cows in heat.
Calling Techniques and Schedules
To effectively call cow elk, start by making a series of short, high-pitched bleats to simulate the sounds of cows in heat. Follow this with a series of longer, more nasal calls to mimic a cow’s response to a bull. Call at least an hour before dawn and again in the late afternoon when elk are most active. For OTC elk hunting in Colorado, consider calling for 10-15 minutes at a time, pausing to listen for elk responses before continuing to call.
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