Late Season Cow Elk: Freezer Filling Tactics
Idaho outdoor intelligence and field strategy from Roam Idaho.
When the antlered tags are punched or expired, the late-season cow hunt is the best way to fill the freezer. But hunting pressured cows in deep snow is a different game than chasing rutting bulls.
Understanding the Herd
By December, the bulls have separated. You are looking for large nursery herds—cows and calves. These groups are ruled by a lead cow. She is old, smart, and has survived a dozen hunting seasons. Defeating her eyes and nose is the challenge.
E-Scouting Winter Range
Snow drives elk down. Use the "Snow Depth" layer on your Roam Idaho map.
- The Line: Elk will often hold just above the heavy snow line until forced lower.
- Solar Aspect: South and West facing slopes burn off snow first. This is where the feed is.
- Security: Late season elk are pressured. They will feed in the open at night and bed in thick timber during the day.
Tactics
The Glassing Game
You must spot them from a distance. A herd of 50 elk is surprisingly hard to see in timber. Look for the "tan box" shape of bodies against the white snow. Glass the transition lines at first light.
The Ambush
Stalking a herd of 100 eyes is nearly impossible. The better play is to figure out where they are headed (bedding to feed) and get in front of them. Let them walk to you.
Roam Idaho Pro Tip: The Gun Shot
Don't shoot the lead cow. If you shoot the lead cow, the herd becomes confused and leaderless, often milling around in panic. While this might sound advantageous, it's chaotic. If you shoot a cow at the back of the herd, the lead cow will often simply run, taking the herd with her in an orderly fashion, leaving you to recover your animal in peace.
Start Your Scout
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