Elk Hunting Equipment

Elk hunting requires thought and preparation before going to hunt. You'll need to bring along gear that will facilitate you bringing in an animal as well as basic survival equipment. What's more, once you get an elk, you'll have to have the proper equipment to dress it and take it out.

Clothing

Going elk hunting requires that you wear the right clothing. In many states, there's a requirement for you to wear hunter orange while hunting. Check with the hunter regulations of your state because if you don't follow the rules, you will be hunting illegally plus put yourself in danger since there are likely to be other hunters in the area.

Understand the area and the weather you're hunting in. Wear layers of synthetic clothing such as polarplus fleece and Gore-Tex or equivalent material that will keep you warm and dry but will also wick away moisture. Because much of hunting is moving and then standing around, be sure to have boots that will keep your feet warm but will also breathe so sweat doesn't accumulate in your socks.

Weapons, Game Callers and Dressing Equipment

Be sure to bring your rifle or bow and enough ammunition to handle an animal of an elk's size. If callers are legal in your state (in most states, mechanical callers are legal; electronic are not necessarily legal), be sure to bring your callers.

Be sure to also bring a knife that you can use to dress and skin the animal. Bring clean game bags and a bone saw so that if you have to pack out the animal yourself, you will need to quarter it. A game cart is handy too.

Survival Equipment

Good survival equipment includes waterproof matches, emergency blanket, cup, water purifying tablets, flashlight, candle, whistle, rope, energy bars, first-aid kit, snake bite kit, GPS system, maps, compass, knife, hatchet and multi-tool. Know how to use your GPS equipment and your map and compass. Bring a cell phone, but don't always expect service.

Necessities

Bring plenty of water and food to eat and drink. If you are moving around a lot or if it is especially cold, you will be burning a fair amount of calories. You will need more water while outside than you will at home. If it is sunny, use unscented sunblock and if you are planning on entering a particularly buggy region, use unscented insect repellent, but be aware that it may alert an elk to your presence. Use sprays that mask your scent and hide you from the animals.

Reference

"Elk Tactics," Don Laubach and Mark Henckel;1998