In this episode of Cutting the Distance, we dive into a Pendleton Whisky Q&A session that tackles some of the most common—and most critical—questions elk hunters have heading into the season. Jason Phelps shares what to do when your cameras are lighting up with elk but not many bulls, how often you can realistically expect a bull to respond to your calling, and his personal breakdown process when it comes time to put meat on the ground. He also explores where to start your search in a new unit.

Then we shift gears into calling strategy—breaking down the basic elk vocalizations every hunter should know, from cow mews to challenge bugles, and when to use them. You'll learn how to adapt your tactics as the rut progresses, how to tell a believable story through your calls, and what it means when a bull cuts you off mid-bugle. Whether you’re brand new to elk hunting or just trying to refine your setup, this episode is packed with real-world insight that can tip the odds in your favor this fall.

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Dirk asked his Instagram followers to send questions regarding elk hunting. No surprise there were some smartypants questions, and some really good serious ones as well. He covers: why the Maverick diaphragm is so much better than the Pink Phelps, early season calling tactics, this year's broad head of choice, sleep talking, best calls NOT to make, optimizing your elk chuckles, stick with cow calls or switch to bugles when you get a bull to respond, calling to bulls that hang up and or run away, and more.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

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Chris Cabral is an accomplished lifelong elk hunter and hunting guide. This week Dirk picks Chris' brain on trail cams, locating bulls, calling bulls, and late season rifle elk hunting tactics.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Phelps Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.