
← Backbone Unlimited Podcast4 sept · 13 min
WHY MOST BOWHUNTERS BLOW THEIR BEST ELK ENCOUNTERS INSIDE 40 YARDS | EP. 238
Getting a bull elk inside 40 yards doesn’t finish the hunt—it starts the hardest part. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down why bowhunters blow close-range elk encounters and how to execute when a bull is finally in range. Learn how to identify shot lanes before the bull arrives, control movement and noise, choose the right time to draw your bow, avoid holding at full draw too early, stay disciplined under adrenaline, and wait for a high-percentage shot opportunity. If you’re an archery elk hunter struggling to convert close encounters into filled tags, this episode will help you improve your shot execution when the pressure is highest.
Ready to build a better elk hunting plan?
Explore the complete Elk Hunting E-book Series, join TEAM Backbone for ongoing guidance and accountability, book a personalized Elk Hunt Plan Audit, or prepare physically with Backbone Unlimited Training and Nutrition Plans.
Visit BackboneUnlimited.com to get started.
Train harder. Hunt smarter. Never settle.