Long Range Pursuit | S10 E13 Mike's California Slam

Published on December 19, 2024
Duration: 21:31

This episode of Long Range Pursuit follows Mike's California Slam hunt, focusing on Tule Elk and Blacktail Deer. The discussion highlights the differences in Tule Elk rutting cycles and trophy size compared to Rocky Mountain Elk, and details the successful harvest of a notable Blacktail deer. The segment also touches upon bullet terminal performance and shot placement considerations in big game hunting.

Quick Summary

Tule Elk in California typically begin their rut in early August, significantly earlier than Rocky Mountain Elk. Trophy size expectations also differ, with a 260-280 class Tule Elk considered a substantial animal, unlike its Rocky Mountain counterpart. Mature Tule Elk bulls can weigh around 600 pounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:17Introduction to the Hunt Location
  2. 01:07Assessing the Terrain for Elk
  3. 01:54Elk Bedding Habits and Movement
  4. 02:31Spotting Tule Elk Bulls
  5. 03:33Tule Elk vs. Rocky Mountain Elk Size Comparison
  6. 06:10Elk Rutting Activity in Early August
  7. 07:02Understanding Tule Elk Body and Horn Size
  8. 08:37Encountering a Unique Deer Buck
  9. 09:05Locating Blacktail Deer
  10. 09:52Taking the Shot on a Blacktail Deer
  11. 11:09Mike's Excitement for Mule Deer
  12. 12:10Assessing the Harvested Blacktail Deer
  13. 13:04End of Daylight and Successful Harvest
  14. 15:09Spotting Wild Pigs
  15. 16:07Spotting a Nice Bull Elk on the Ridge
  16. 16:43Choosing the Target Bull
  17. 17:07The Shot on the Bull Elk
  18. 17:37Discussion on Bullet Performance
  19. 18:39Analyzing the Elk Shot Placement
  20. 19:38Examining the Elk's Antlers
  21. 20:12Bullet Terminal Performance Discussion
  22. 20:31Reviewing the Elk Harvest
  23. 20:47Final Thoughts on the Hunt

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Tule Elk rut typically start in California?

The Tule Elk rut in California typically begins in early August. This is notably earlier than the rutting season for Rocky Mountain Elk, which usually starts about a month later.

How do Tule Elk trophy sizes compare to Rocky Mountain Elk?

Trophy size expectations for Tule Elk are different from Rocky Mountain Elk. A Tule Elk bull scoring around 260-280 is considered a very good trophy, whereas a Rocky Mountain Elk of that score might be considered small.

What is the typical weight of a mature Tule Elk bull?

A mature, large Tule Elk bull can weigh approximately 600 pounds. This weight is comparable to what might be considered a young, immature bull of the Rocky Mountain Elk subspecies.

What makes a Blacktail deer buck a good trophy?

A good Blacktail deer buck trophy is often characterized by its frame and tine length. The harvested buck in this episode, measuring around 142 inches, was considered a large specimen, with good antler characteristics.

What are the considerations for bullet performance on large game like elk?

When hunting large game, bullet performance is key. Solid copper bullets offer deep penetration but may expand less than traditional bullets, potentially leading to less tissue damage. Proper shot placement is crucial regardless of bullet type.

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