It’s elk season, and I’m heading to Elk Heaven! Join me as I get excited for the season in a conversation with one of BC’s most knowledgeable and skilled hunters, Jordan Kowalchuk of @BCBackcountry. This is our second podcast together, where we dive into the world of elk hunting, sharing personal experiences, lessons learned, and successful strategies. During our discussion, we explore the evolution of hunting techniques, the significance of persistence, and the thrill of pursuing mature bulls. We also cover how environmental factors affect elk behavior, the crucial timing during the hunting season, and the balance between adventure and success in hunting. Focusing on camaraderie and shared experiences, this episode captures the essence of being an elk hunter. Jordan shares his insights on tracking, shot placement, and the importance of patience and strategy. He talks about the challenges of tracking wounded elk, lessons learned from missed shots, and the necessity of understanding elk behavior. Additionally, we discuss bullet performance and the value of documenting hunting experiences for future reference. You can keep up with Jordan @BCBackcountry on Instagram. Here's a link to the EatWild Elk Hunting Online Course and the iHunter Field Guide to help you get ready for the season.  00:00 Elk Hunting Adventures: A Journey Begins 05:06 Lessons from the Kootenays: Early Elk Hunting Experiences 09:59 Transitioning to Mature Bulls: Evolving Hunting Strategies 14:50 The Impact of Environment on Elk Populations 19:53 Timing the Hunt: Pre-Rut, Peak Rut, and Post-Rut Insights 37:34 Understanding the Elk Rut Cycle 41:50 Dream Adventure Hunts in British Columbia 44:49 The Thrill of Elk Hunting 49:39 Lessons Learned from Elk Shooting Experiences 01:11:08 Heartbreak and Lessons from Missed Shots 01:12:30 The Human Element in Decision Making 01:13:15 The Importance of Shot Placement 01:15:28 Calling Strategies and Elk Behaviour 01:18:05 Tracking and Blood Trails 01:20:28 Instinct vs. Process in Hunting 01:21:49 The Value of Autopsies in Hunting 01:25:36 Documenting Experiences for Future Success 01:30:14 Bad Hunting Advice and Learning from Mistakes   The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.  As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast.  Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.