When I was growing up, Elk was not associated with Pennsylvania. I remember seeing an exhibit at the State Museum and not believing they had ever roamed the Keystone State. Of course, they had, but they were early victims of hungry colonists. However, thanks to the Pa Game Commission’s reintroduction effort, the state enjoys a thriving population and one that can sustain a limited hunting season. Let’s take a minute to discuss making the most of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

GETTING A LICENSE

The first step in hunting a majestic Penn’s Woods Elk is obtaining your license. Unfortunately, the population is not large enough to support the over-the-counter sale of unlimited licenses. Due to the limited range, it probably never will.

However, hunting is a major component of herd management, so the Pa Game Commission does offer a limited number of licenses, approximately 140-145 per season.

Like many states, these permits are made available via a lottery system. Permit applications are available during the first few weeks of annual license sales. For 2024, the deadline is July 14th. During the application process, you will select a season — Antlers Only, Antlerless Only or Either-sex. Applicants may also apply for “points only.” In this case, you will not be entered in the current season’s drawing but will earn bonus points for a future season.

It is important to remember:

No resident or non-resident quota; all applicants are part of the same pool.

If you wish to apply for more than one season, each will require a separate application.

Although every Zone has experienced success, each offers different terrain and success during specific seasons. Research each before making a selection.

Results will be posted in late July, starting approximately two weeks after the application deadline (Saturday, July 27th for the current season). Applicants may also check the status of their application via the PGC website at any time after the drawing.

All Elk harvested must be brought to an elk check station within 24 hours of being taken. Permit holders will receive check station information prior to Opening Day, and an update will be posted to the PGC website as necessary.

DO YOU NEED A GUIDE?

No, a guide is not required to hunt Elk in Pennsylvania.

Many hunters have been successful during DIY hunts. However, successful lone hunters are usually familiar with the Northern Tier and have the time to scout before the hunt. There will be a limited number of hunters each year.

Most hunters will benefit from having a guide. Although it will add expense to your overall hunt, it can make the difference when it comes time to fill a tag. Considering this may be your only opportunity to hunt Pa Elk, you may want to make the most of it.

Having a guide offers many advantages. Local guides not only know the local layout and where Elk are most likely to be but may also have access to properties that would otherwise be closed to the DIY hunter. Plus, having a guide with you can come in handy when packing out and transporting it to a check station. Most importantly, the guides are accustomed to seeing Elk and judging their trophy status. Having one at your side may help you avoid pulling the trigger prematurely when the true trophy is only a few minutes behind.

PROCESSING

Elk are large animals, especially compared to the whitetail deer, which most Pennsylvania hunters are accustomed to. Cows can weigh between 400 and 600 pounds, while bulls range between 600 and 1,000 pounds. This is a lot of meat to pack out and process, and it would be a shame to waste any of your harvests after putting so much effort into a successful hunt.

Most hunters will quarter the animal to make packing it out easier. As with any large game, care should be taken to protect the meat as soon as possible, especially during the early season when temperatures will likely be warm.

If you are utilizing a local processor, it is best to locate one near your hunting area ahead of time. This will allow you to determine their location, hours, and fees before having an animal in the bed of your truck. Plus, it will give you time to check with other customers and discuss their experience with the processor. Many guides will prepare your animal for processing; some may partner with a local shop for this service.

PRESERVING YOUR MEMORIES

You will undoubtedly want to preserve as many memories of your hunt as possible. Here are some tips for doing so:

Take plenty of pictures. Although you may take your hunt as an opportunity to unplug from civilization, having your smartphone close as hand makes capturing important moments easy.

Keep a journal. Recording your hunt is especially useful for multi-day hunts. As time goes on, memories will blur, and events will blend. Having a written account of what happened will help keep the hunt alive.

Mount your trophy. Nothing keeps the memories of a hunt alive like having a constant reminder over the mantle. If you plan to mount your Elk, it is essential to prepare it correctly from the moment it is down. If you select a taxidermist before your hunt, they will provide specific instructions detailing how the carcass should be handled and prepared.

Good luck and good hunting!