California Elk Hunting
Regulations 2026

Rocky Mountain elk are the second-largest deer family member in North America, with mature bulls reaching 700-1,100 lbs. Bulls grow massive multi-tined antlers and emit a haunting bugling call during the September rut, one of the most dramatic events in North American wildlife. They're identified by a pale yellowish-tan rump patch, darker brown neck and shoulders, and a heavy muscular body. Cows are smaller with no antlers. Elk thrive in mountain meadows, aspen parks, and open forests.