Omar dives into the challenges, mistakes, and key takeaways from his journey to taking his first bull with a bow
When you step into the backcountry for your first archery elk hunt, the excitement and nerves are as real as the crisp September air. In this video, Omar reflects on his very first bowhunt for elk, sharing valuable lessons that resonate with both new hunters and seasoned hunters alike. Here’s a breakdown of the main takeaways for those eager to improve their hunting skills.
One of the biggest takeaways from Omar's first archery elk hunt was the value of having an experienced mentor. Learning directly from someone who has not only hunted elk but has also been successful makes a world of difference. A mentor can guide you through terrain decisions, scouting strategies, and even the step-by-step process of breaking down an animal. What stood out most is that you can’t just rely on your partner — you need to ask questions, stay engaged, and treat the hunt as a hands-on classroom in the wild. For new hunters, this is an invaluable way to build both confidence and skills.
It may seem obvious, but many new hunters learn this lesson the hard way: always set up your tent and practice with your equipment before the trip. On his first elk hunt, Omar recalled his first night fumbling with a brand-new shelter, which led to wasted time and frustration. In the backcountry, every ounce of energy counts. Knowing how your gear works — from pitching a shelter to handling cooking systems — saves you energy and allows you to focus on the hunt instead of problem-solving in the dark.
Scouting doesn’t just happen months in advance — it can be just as crucial in the days leading up to opening day. Arriving early gives you time to hike in, adjust to the terrain, and locate elk without the added pressure of an open season. This approach not only provides a mental edge but also helps you avoid competing hunters who roll in at the last minute. It’s an excellent reminder that preparation doesn’t stop at gear — timing and strategy can give you a major advantage.
No matter how much you prepare, nothing compares to the adrenaline of having a bull elk closing in. Omar admitted to battling nerves during his first shot opportunity, a classic case of “buck fever.” His legs trembled, his focus blurred, and the result was a missed opportunity. But instead of dwelling on it, he learned to mentally reset, stay calm, and execute under pressure the next time. For new hunters, this is an honest reminder: those nerves are normal, but success comes from learning to control them.
From lost keys to broken gear, the backcountry has a way of testing hunters at every turn. Omar emphasized carrying backups for critical items — like a spare release, extra buckles, repair kits for tents and sleeping pads, and basic tools to fix a vehicle if needed. At the same time, he cautioned against overpacking, which can bog you down. The key is balance: plan for the inevitable hiccups, but stay light enough to remain mobile and efficient.
This first hunt was more than just a pursuit of an elk — it was a crash course in resilience, preparation, and patience. Whether it’s seeking mentorship, practicing with gear, scouting early, handling pressure, or planning for mishaps, these lessons go beyond hunting and apply to any adventure in the wild.
For anyone gearing up for their first archery elk hunt, this reflection is both an inspiration and a roadmap.
