Elk Hunting Tips from Montana Decoy Founder Jerry McPherson

As the founder of Montana Decoy and a lifelong hunter, Jerry McPherson has spent decades learning what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to pursuing elk with a bow. His experience designing realistic, lightweight decoys has given him a unique edge in understanding elk behavior, particularly in close-range hunting situations. Here, McPherson shares some of his top tips for archery elk hunters looking to increase their odds in the field.

1. Use Visual Cues to Your Advantage
One often overlooked element of elk hunting is the importance of visual confirmation. Elk are social animals and tend to respond more confidently when they can see what they think they're hearing—which is where decoys come into play.

“There are times when a bull hangs up just out of range because he’s looking for the cow he thinks he heard,” says McPherson. “If he doesn’t see one, he may turn and walk away.” A well-placed decoy can turn that situation into a close encounter.

Position the decoy in a natural, believable spot—like just beyond a rise or in a small clearing—where a bull would reasonably expect to see another elk.
Another effective tactic: if a bull is hanging back and out of range but responding to your calls, briefly flash the decoy while staying concealed. Give him a visual, then put the decoy away. Sometimes, that quick glimpse is enough to draw him in.

2. Master the Wind and Thermals
Elk rely heavily on their sense of smell, and wind awareness is critical. “If the wind’s wrong, it doesn’t matter how good your setup is—your hunt is over,” McPherson emphasizes.

Thermals typically rise in the morning and fall in the evening. Learn how these air movements behave in mountainous terrain to plan your approach.
When hunting in canyons and drainages, even a slight breeze can cause your scent to swirl unpredictably. In these situations, stay high on ridge tops to help avoid swirling winds and try to call the elk uphill toward you.

3. Keep Calling Simple and Strategic
Calling can be incredibly effective—but less is often more. “A single cow call, paired with a decoy and the right setup, can be more effective than continuous calling,” McPherson notes.

Elk communicate through tone and timing, so mimic their natural rhythm. Pay close attention to how bulls respond, and don’t hesitate to go silent. Curiosity can be your ally.
Also, be ready—bulls often close the final distance silently.

4. Plan for Realistic Setups
Every part of your setup should make sense from an elk’s perspective. That means not only using decoys and calls wisely but also ensuring you have clear shooting lanes, proper concealment, and favorable wind direction.

McPherson suggests placing your decoy slightly off to the side of your calling position to divert the bull’s focus away from you.
“It’s about creating a shot opportunity, not just getting an elk to come into view,” he says.

5. Be Patient, Be Persistent
Elk hunting is a long game. Conditions change quickly in the mountains, and bulls won’t always behave predictably. McPherson encourages hunters to stay patient, prepared, and adaptable.

“Success in elk hunting comes from preparation, understanding behavior, and staying flexible,” he says. Even a close call or missed opportunity can teach valuable lessons and sharpen your skills for the next hunt.

Final Thoughts
Jerry McPherson’s elk hunting insights are rooted in decades of hands-on experience and innovation. By combining strategic calling, smart setups, and effective use of decoys, bowhunters can dramatically increase their chances of success. Whether you're new to elk hunting or a seasoned veteran, these tips offer a reliable foundation for a more effective and rewarding experience in the field.