Utah elk archery is not for the faint of heart. The endeavor demands a higher level of skill, patience, and endurance from hunters. The use of archery equipment adds an extra layer of complexity, requiring precision and a deep understanding of elk behavior to close the distance for an ethical shot.
The terrain varies widely in Utah, ranging from alpine meadows to dense forests and rugged canyons. This diversity adds an extra challenge for hunters, pushing them to adapt their strategies to the ever-changing environment. Navigating the steep and challenging terrain demands physical fitness and mental resilience.
(All pictures came from general season hunts in Utah.)
General Season Utah Elk Archery
The general season elk hunts can be very confusing, especially since the adjustments in 2023. All general season bull hunts are over the counter (OTC) tags. Utah has 2 different types of Units that you are allowed to hunt with the Archery elk tag. The units are spike and any bull units. In the spike unit you are able to shoot either a spike, meaning a elk with at least one side above the ears has no split or additional points. You can also shoot an antlerless elk unless otherwise stated by the Division of Wildlife Resources. The any bull units allow you to shoot any bull elk that comes by. They also allow you to shoot any antlerless elk unless otherwise stated by the DWR.
Limited Entry Utah Elk Archery
Utah’s limited entry units operate on a point-based lottery system, transforming the hunt into a strategic game for enthusiasts. Here’s how it works: when hunters apply for a limited entry elk tag but are unsuccessful, they accrue a point. The accumulation of points becomes valuable, increasing the odds of drawing a coveted tag in subsequent years. The more points a hunter amasses, the higher their chances of securing a tag in the next lottery. The opportunity to put in for the limited entry hunts arises around the beginning of each year, adding an element of anticipation and planning to the hunter’s calendar. This window allows individuals to strategically select their preferred units, evaluate their point standing, and make informed decisions about where to invest their chances for the best possible outcome. One of the distinguishing features of limited entry hunts in Utah is the freedom to harvest any bull within the designated unit. This flexibility adds an extra layer of excitement to the hunt, as hunters have the potential to encounter and pursue a trophy bull that meets their personal goals and aspirations. The challenge intensifies as hunters navigate the specific unit they drew, blending strategy, tracking skills, and knowledge of elk behavior to increase their chances of a successful harvest.
Extended Archery
One of the key attractions for bowhunters in Utah is the extended archery season. These extended timeframes give hunters a significant advantage in terms of scouting, learning elk behavior, and executing well-thought-out strategies. Unlike the rifle seasons, archery hunters enjoy a quieter pursuit, allowing for a more better connection with the surroundings and a heightened sense of the hunt. This hunt is different then the Mule Deer extended archery hunt. The mule deer hunt covers more area than the elk extended archery and while they cover some of the same area they do not cover all of the same area. The elk hunt also lasts longer. Check the hunt maps before you go. The extended archery hunt runs from when the normal archery hunt ends and runs to about mid-December.
