Elk is the largest specie of deer and one of biggest games that are hunted by hunting enthusiasts. They live in remote, hilly areas, which means that whether you going for a day or weekend hunting trip, proper planning is essential. Whether you are a new or experienced hunter it is important to have the appropriate clothing and equipment before heading out for the hunt. Here are a few of the essential items that you will need to help make your elk hunt comfortable, safe and as successful as possible.
SKIP AHEAD
Backpack
The backpack you choose must be durable and lightweight as well as large enough to haul all of your gear. A good size pack has about 2000 cubic inches of space and several different pockets. Keep in mind that the larger the pack, the more difficult it will be to carry through the rough terrain.
Clothing & Boots
When it comes to clothing, it is important to keep in mind that during hunting season, the weather can change quickly, so plan to dress in layers. Dressing in layers will allow you to easily adapt to the changing conditions. You will need a waterproof hat, wool socks, insulated and waterproof gloves and rain gear. The boots you wear should should be lightweight and designed for hiking and climbing.
First Aid Kit
One of the most important things you need for a hunting trip is a first aid kit. Your first aid kit can help to save your life should you get injured during the trip. It should be fully stocked and the first item on your packing list. Items in the first aid kit should include:
- Bandages
- Medical Tape
- Rolled gauze
- Gauze wound pads
- Scissors
- Hand sanitizer
- Alcohol pads
- Stitches
- Sharp, small blade knife
Dressing Tools & Equipment
Dressing an elk isn’t any different than dressing a deer, but there is a lot more of it, the hide is thicker and the bones are heavier, so it is important to have the appropriate, and quality tools. You will need a bone saw, preferably one that is separate from the knife. The blades on both the saw and your knives need to be sturdy and sharp. It is also recommended that you carry a pocket stone or sharpening tool. You will also need a good, strong and sturdy rope. Game bags will help to keep the dirt and debris off of the meat and protect it from flies and bees. Flagging streamers and/or bandanna can be used to mark the area of a downed area and it can alert other hunters that a human is in the vicinity. Latex gloves are not required, but they do make it easier to keep your hands clean while you are dressing the elk.
Food & Water
You should carry at least one canteen already filled with fresh water, but it is also necessary to carry a water bottle with a built-in filter so you can refill from a water source on the land. Pack a few different food items to snack on, such as protein bars, cereal bars, beef jerky or meat sticks.
Light Source & Binoculars
You will need a good head lamp and a flashlight. The headlight should be compact and fit in a pocket and the flashlight should be lightweight, but produce a strong light. Remember to pack extra batteries. Good binoculars are essential, but a decent, compact spotting scope can also come in handy if you have room in your pack.
Personal Items & Small Essentials
There are several small essentials & personal items that are must for any hunting trip, including:
- Lip balm
- Toilet paper
- Emergency whistle
- Map
- Hand wipes
- Compass
- Waterproof matches
- Multi-tool
- Zip lock baggies
Once you have all of the essentials packed, before you head out for your elk hunt, it is extremely important that you let someone at home know where you will be hunting, if possible, the coordinates, when you plan to return and a cell phone number.
