Are you planning your next elk hunting trip and wondering what a “brow-tined bull” is?
Look no further!
In this article, we’ll explore the definition of a brow-tined bull elk and what it means for your hunting experience.
From understanding the difference between antlered and browtine-only hunts to learning how to judge the length of a tine, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your gear and let’s dive into the world of Montana elk hunting.
What Is A Brow Tined Bull Elk?
A brow-tined bull elk is an elk with one or both antlers having a point on the lower half that is at least 4 inches long. This is an important distinction to make when planning your elk hunting trip, as different hunting units may have different regulations regarding what type of elk can be harvested.
For example, in Montana’s hunting unit 315, a general elk hunting tag allows you to harvest any bull elk with antlers containing 3 or more points per side, or a cow elk. However, the only ones that are off-limits are the young bulls that are merely spikes or forked antler bulls. This means that if you’re hunting in this unit, you can harvest a brow-tined bull elk as long as it meets the other requirements.
Antlered Vs Browtine-only Hunts: What’s The Difference?
When it comes to elk hunting, it’s important to understand the difference between an antlered-only hunt and a browtine-only hunt. An antlered-only hunt means that you can harvest any bull elk with antlers, regardless of size or number of points. This includes spikes, forked antlers, and brow-tined bulls.
On the other hand, a browtine-only hunt means that you can only harvest bull elk with antlers that have at least one point on the lower half that is at least 4 inches long. This is a more specific requirement and limits the number of bulls that can be harvested.
It’s important to check the regulations for the specific hunting unit you plan to hunt in, as different units may have different requirements for antlered and browtine-only hunts. Understanding these regulations can help you plan your hunt and ensure that you are harvesting elk legally and ethically.
How To Judge The Length Of A Tine
When it comes to judging the length of a tine on a bull elk, it is important to be as accurate as possible. To do this, start by measuring the outside length of each tine on one side of the rack using a tape measure. For a 6X6 bull, there will be 5 tines to measure, from G1 to G5. To accurately calculate the length of each tine, measure from the tip of the tine to the point where it intersects with the nearest edge of the main beam.
To locate this intersection point accurately, use your tape measure to locate the inside edge of the main beam and mark it with masking tape. This will help you identify where the tine intersects with the main beam. Record the point lengths in the appropriate boxes, measuring to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Next, record the length of the main beam by measuring along its outside contour from its tip to the lowest outside edge of the “burr”. Circumference measurements of the main beam are then taken between G1 and G2 and recorded as H1-H4 at the smallest point of circumference.
If there are any “abnormal” points on either side of the rack, such as points that originate from another tine or from the bottom or side of the main beam, add them up and record their total measurement.
Repeat these tine length, main beam, circumference, and abnormal point measurements for the other side of the rack. Finally, measure the spread inside the main beams at their widest point and record this measurement.
By adding these measurements together, you can determine the “gross” score of your bull elk. To determine the “net” score, calculate the differences between each measurement from left to right and subtract any total deductions, as well as any total abnormal point lengths, from the gross score.
To estimate point lengths on a bull elk more accurately, use anatomical references such as estimating brow tines by comparing them to the length from burr to nose tip or comparing fourth points to a measurement from top back to bottom belly. By following these guidelines, you can judge a bull elk’s tine lengths more accurately and have a better chance at harvesting a brow-tined bull elk that meets your hunting unit’s regulations.
Tips For Hunting Brow-tined Bull Elk
If you’re specifically targeting brow-tined bull elk during your hunting trip, here are some tips to increase your chances of success:
1. Scout the area: Before your hunting trip, spend some time scouting the area where you plan to hunt. Look for signs of elk activity, such as tracks, droppings, and rubs on trees. This will give you a better idea of where to set up your stand or blind.
2. Use calls: Elk are social animals and often respond to calls. Try using a cow call or bugle to attract a bull elk to your location. Make sure to practice your calls beforehand so that they sound realistic.
3. Hunt during the rut: The best time to hunt brow-tined bull elk is during the pre-mating rutting season, which typically occurs between September and mid-October. During this time, fully mature bulls are out in force, fighting with each other to prove their superiority as mates for the cows and to stake a claim to the surrounding territory.
4. Look for brow tines: As the name suggests, brow-tined bull elk have antlers with visible points on the lower half of either main beam that are greater than or equal to four inches long. When scanning the area for elk, keep an eye out for these distinctive antlers.
5. Be patient: Hunting brow-tined bull elk can be challenging, and success rates are notoriously low. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see any elk right away. Stay patient and persistent, and your efforts may eventually pay off with a successful harvest.
By following these tips and being prepared for your hunting trip, you’ll be well on your way to bagging a brow-tined bull elk and experiencing the thrill of this exciting and challenging activity.
The Importance Of Proper Elk Management In Preserving Brow-tined Bulls
Proper elk management is crucial in preserving the population of brow-tined bull elk. These magnificent animals are highly sought after by hunters, and their antlers are prized trophies. However, overhunting or poor management practices can lead to a decline in their numbers.
It’s important for hunters to be aware of the regulations in the area they are hunting and to follow them closely. Some units may have restrictions on harvesting brow-tined bull elk, or may require a special permit to do so. By following these regulations, hunters can help ensure that the population of brow-tined bull elk remains healthy and sustainable.
In addition to hunting regulations, other factors such as habitat loss and disease can also impact the population of brow-tined bull elk. Proper management practices such as habitat restoration and disease prevention can help mitigate these threats and ensure that the population remains stable.
Ultimately, preserving the population of brow-tined bull elk is not only important for hunters and trophy seekers, but for the overall health and diversity of our ecosystems. By practicing responsible hunting and management practices, we can help ensure that these magnificent animals continue to thrive for generations to come.
