Elk are huge animals that require a sturdy pack. Plan to include a good pack frame when you assemble your elk hunting equipment list. Smart elk hunters carry a light collapsible pack in their backpacks.

Bowhunters love to talk equipment, and people continually ask me what kind of bow I shoot and why. For years, I’ve shot a Mathews SoloCam because I know it will always stay in tune and hit where I’m aiming. My newest model, the Q2 has a perimeter-weighted cam and the new Harmonic Damping System that combine to practically eliminate recoil. There are plenty of great bows out there from many manufacturers, but it seems like they’re all trying to copy the Mathews… so I choose the leader instead of the followers.

No matter how careful you are about human scent it seems that if a deer, especially a mature buck, goes downwind of you, he will scent you and spook. So wind direction is extremely important, whether you're hunting from a stand, blind or still- hunting. Always try to stay downwind of the deer or where you expect to see deer. Here's a tip to be able to detect what direction the wind is blowing: Tie a three-inch piece of very fine thread on your bow sight or rifle barrel. It will move in even the slightest breeze and it is easy to glance at.

When shooting action shots, check your film counter constantly. If you only have a few frames left, go ahead and put in a fresh roll. There is nothing more frustrating than running out of film during an exciting burst of action.

I like to look for areas that are the most undisturbed by human activity or areas that deer are least likely bothered. These are usually "buck bedding" areas. I look for trails exiting these areas heading towards feeding areas and I set-up just close enough so I can sneak up without spooking the deer. These make great evening spots.

While waterfowling in the marshes always carry a wading stick. This will enable you to test the mud and or water for depth without risking getting your waders full of cold water. It will also help you balance while you cross any soft ground.

Don't be afraid to shoot at a bull elk standing broadside looking at you. Elks are large animals and usually don't jump the string.

Try using a framed pack to carry your gear to the blind in the marsh, it will be much easier to balance when you are crossing any nasty area. It also makes a great seat when your shooting from the blind.