Joe, wallows can be a good strategy as well as a crap shoot! (grin) It's true they can be a great "destination" spot where little calling can produce great results. Wallows generally start seeing use around mid Aug. to mid Sept. Sure wallows still will be hit after that but peak times are as mentioned. Active or used wallows are a must for sure, vacant ones are of little value. I find elk/bulls do not use the same ones every year in areas where moisture is abundant so finding active ones is crucial. Too, making sure we are on wallows & not water sources is also needed when looking for that great bath-tub sized wallow that is evident that a bull is using it & it's generally within earshot of his bedding area. Problem with every year use is the bull that was using it primarily could have been killed off or elk just aren't in the area yet. Breeding areas are great spots as well when wallows exist there. Of course trail cameras can be useful on them as well. Wind is always an issue to be considered for those midday sittings, it's extremely important that we are never scented on their approach or from their bedding spots. There are times we have to setup on a trail well off the wallow to get the right wind for a particular part of the day. Too we find the last 2-3 hours of the day are best especially if it's very hot!--- I have called from wallows with selective sounds & it has worked very well but I do not call from them once a bull calls to the wallow wanting to know if another elk is there. If you do answer there's a 50/50 chance he'll avoid it or come in screamN. (grin) I don't call once he does thus removing the 50% chance of avoiding it, he'll most likely come in anyway if stayed quiet!
ElkNut1
