Quick Answer
For September elk calling, use the bull elk's mating season (rut) as your guide to determine the right sounds and timing. Focus on bugles and grunts to mimic a receptive cow elk, and use a consistent, confident tone. Call at dawn and dusk when elk are most active.
Pre-Season Preparation
Before you head out to call elk in September, make sure you’re familiar with the sounds of bull elk during the rut. Listen to recordings of bugles and grunts to develop your skills and build confidence. Practice your calling in the days leading up to the hunt, focusing on consistency and control.
Calling Techniques for September Elk
In September, elk are typically in a full-blown rut, and bulls are actively searching for receptive cows. To call elk during this time, use a combination of bugles and grunts to mimic a cow elk’s responses. Start with a series of 3-5 bugles, spaced about 10-15 seconds apart, to signal the presence of a receptive cow. Follow up with a series of 5-7 grunts, spaced about 5-10 seconds apart, to simulate a cow elk’s responses. Repeat this pattern several times, pausing for 30-60 seconds between sequences.
Best Times and Locations for Calling Elk
Target areas with good elk habitat, such as aspen groves, meadows, and ridgelines, and focus on calling during the early morning and late afternoon when elk are most active. Use a consistent, confident tone when calling, and be prepared to move to different locations if you don’t get a response. Consider using a cow elk decoy to increase the effectiveness of your calling, and always be mindful of your surroundings and potential ambush points.
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