The challenge is great, the reward even greater for the bowhunter who outwits a big bull.
It begins around the end of August in the Rockies when the dawns turn chilly, the aspen leaves turn golden, the small ponds freeze over at night, and the bull elk get a little crazy, guarding their harems and fighting off all comers.
Soon to follow in the crazy department are bowhunters whose thoughts have turned to the rutting bulls. Some elk camps are little more than a tent, a campfire, and two hunters in the backcountry who share a passion for chasing bugling bulls with sharp sticks. Others are more established, even steeped in tradition.
Stories and memories are fine, but things always get back around to the quarry at hand. A rut-crazed bull may not be the sharpest arrow in the quiver, but the cows are always on alert. Or, as the old saying goes, “Hiding behind skirts is a great survival strategy.”
On a good morning when it all comes together, you might rejoice in a successful hunt. BBD, baby—big bull down! More than likely, a little luck entered into the picture, but you’ll take it every time ’cause those cows are ever watchful and the bulls always alert and on the move.
Now begins the real work.
Note: This article originally appeared in the 2017 July/August issue of Sporting Classics Magazine with photography by Denver Bryan. All Rights Reserved.