Explore every episode of the podcast Backbone Unlimited Podcast

Hunting mule deer on public land is one of the most mentally and physically demanding challenges in the West—and one of the most rewarding. In this episode, I share hard-earned lessons from 33+ years of chasing bucks across high country basins, rolling foothills, desert flats, and pressured public land. This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s the honest, boots-on-the-ground truth about what works, what doesn’t, and how to become the kind of hunter who consistently tags mature bucks in big country.

Whether you're planning your first DIY mule deer hunt or refining your backcountry strategy for a high-pressure rifle or archery season, this episode gives you the real-world knowledge to hunt smarter, last longer, and close the distance.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: • How to scout and glass mule deer effectively in high country, desert, and transition zones • Mule deer behavior and how to use it to your advantage based on terrain, pressure, and time of year • Spot-and-stalk tactics for both solo and partner hunts • Identifying bedding areas, feeding zones, and escape routes • When to move, when to sit tight, and how to close the gap • Thermals, wind, terrain, and how to adapt as conditions change • How to build fitness and gear systems for western backcountry hunts • Mindset shifts that separate consistent hunters from tag soup

Recommended For: • Public land mule deer hunters • DIY western hunters (archery or rifle) • First-time backcountry hunters preparing for tough terrain • Hunters learning how to hunt the pre-rut, rut, and post-rut phases • Anyone serious about shortening the learning curve in the West

If you're tired of glassing empty hillsides, blowing stalks, or getting outworked by the terrain, this episode gives you the tactics, confidence, and mindset to show up different this season.

Listen now and take the next step toward becoming a more effective public land mule deer hunter.

Planning your first public land hunt in the West? Whether you're chasing elk in Colorado, mule deer in Idaho, or trying to draw your first tag in Wyoming, this episode gives you the truth most hunters won’t tell you. No hype. No fluff. Just 100% real-world insight on how to prepare, hunt, and survive your first or next DIY western hunt.

I’m Matt Hartsky, and after 33+ years of Western big game hunting, I’ve learned what it really takes to succeed on public land elk and mule deer hunts—and in this episode, I’m giving you the crash course I wish I had when I started.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • How to access and navigate Western public land hunting opportunities • Tag strategy: understanding draw vs OTC elk and mule deer tags • Essential backcountry hunting gear and packing tips • How to train for altitude, steep terrain, and back-to-back hunt days • E-scouting strategies for elk and mule deer • How to mentally prepare for tough, pressured hunts • Solo vs partner dynamics—what to expect and how to decide • Mistakes most first-time western hunters make and how to avoid them • How to hunt smarter when the pressure is high and the bulls go silent

Perfect for: • Public land elk hunters • DIY mule deer hunters • First-time Western hunters heading to Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, or Utah • Archery and rifle hunters building their first backcountry strategy

This isn’t about luck. It’s about preparation, strategy, and mental grit. If you're looking for public land hunting tips, want to understand how to hunt elk in high-pressure units, or need a clear blueprint for planning your first western backcountry hunt, this episode delivers.

Listen now to learn how to hunt with purpose—and make every step in the West count.

Fueling right can be the difference between tagging out—or tapping out.

In this episode of the Backbone Unlimited Podcast, Matt Hartsky breaks down the exact calorie formulas, rules of thumb, and real-world strategies every backcountry hunter needs to stay in the fight.

Whether you're chasing elk deep in the Rockies or grinding out high-mileage days in remote terrain, understanding how to calculate your daily calorie needs is a critical edge. No more guessing. No more crashing. Just the math, the method, and the mission-ready meal planning that supports true mountain grit.

🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to calculate your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) using the Mifflin-St Jeor equation

• How to estimate calories burned per hour while backpack hunting

• What your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) really is during a hard hunt

• A fast and effective rule-of-thumb for caloric needs based on your bodyweight

• The best calorie-dense foods for long hunts (nuts, jerky, oil additives, more)

• Smart hydration and electrolyte strategies that prevent bonking and cramping

• Why testing your backcountry food system ahead of time is non-negotiable

🗻 Whether you're a first-time DIY hunter or a seasoned grinder looking to level up your nutrition game, this episode delivers a field-tested system to fuel your body, sharpen your mind, and carry your mission to the finish.

🔥 Join TEAM BACKBONE for exclusive hunting resources, a private community, direct access to Matt, and members-only gear: 👉 BackboneUnlimited.com/membership

🎧 Subscribe now for more episodes on public land hunting, elk prep, mindset, gear, and relentless living—in the wild and in life.

Solo elk hunting on public land is one of the toughest challenges in Western hunting—and it’s not for the faint of heart. In this episode, I break down exactly how to prepare for and succeed on a DIY solo elk hunt, whether you’re heading deep into the backcountry with a bow or a rifle, in search of bulls with no backup and no margin for error.

I’m Matt Hartsky, founder of Backbone Unlimited. After more than 33 years of Western hunting, I’ve learned that solo elk hunts require a whole different level of mental toughness, physical prep, and tactical thinking. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I have what it takes to do this alone?”—this is the real-world advice you need before boots hit the dirt.

What you’ll learn in this episode: • Solo elk hunting mindset – how to become your own team • How to train and condition for solo backcountry elk hunts • Solo e-scouting strategies to pre-plan every move • Backcountry safety protocols, gear, and solo check-ins • Calling and closing tactics when hunting elk solo • Mental strategies to overcome fear, fatigue, and isolation • How to pack out elk meat by yourself without breaking down • Solo camp setup and tips to stay sharp in total silence

Whether you’re hunting OTC units, preparing for your first public land solo elk hunt, or just looking to test your limits in the mountains, this episode is packed with hard-earned insight, practical strategies, and mindset tips to help you go further—alone.

Recommended for: • DIY solo elk hunters • Public land archery or rifle hunters • First-time backcountry hunters • Western hunters preparing for a solo mission

Listen now and build the skills, toughness, and confidence you’ll need when it’s just you, your pack, and the wild.

Want to become a more effective public land hunter? In this episode, we break down the top 3 backcountry hunting tactics every serious hunter must master: Still Hunting, Ambush Hunting, and Spot-and-Stalk. Whether you're chasing elk, mule deer, or other big game on public land, knowing when and how to apply each of these strategies is the key to consistent success in high-pressure units.

You’ll learn how to: • Hunt elk on public land using terrain, wind, and pressure to your advantage • Use still hunting tactics to quietly cover ground in thick timber and bedding zones • Set up effective ambush hunting locations based on travel corridors, feed, and thermals • Execute smart, calculated spot-and-stalk plays in open or broken terrain • Manage wind, scent, and visibility in high-odds setups • Adjust your backpack hunting strategy based on real-time conditions

Whether you're bowhunting elk during the rut or rifle hunting during late season, this tactical breakdown gives you the decision-making framework to adapt and succeed. We focus on how to match each hunting method to the landscape, pressure level, and animal behavior you're facing—so you stop guessing and start getting into more game.

Built for: • Public land elk hunters • DIY backcountry hunters • First-time western big game hunters • Archery and rifle hunters looking to sharpen their field tactics

Perfect to listen to while scouting, training, or heading into camp—this is your practical field guide for hunting smarter and staying lethal in the backcountry.

Hunting elk on public land and want real tactics that actually work in high-pressure units? This episode breaks down 7 field-proven elk hunting strategies to help you kill more bulls—especially if you're going solo, backpacking deep, or bowhunting elk in over-the-counter units.

Whether you’re preparing for your first DIY archery elk hunt or dialing in your plan for another backcountry elk hunting trip, these are the exact tactics I’ve used for over 30 seasons to locate, call in, and kill bulls on public ground.

In this episode, you'll learn how to: ✔️ Use predawn locator bugles to control the first hour of daylight ✔️ Build cow calling setups that work when bugling fails ✔️ Identify rut refuge zones and terrain “stalking ribbons” ✔️ Time thermals, control wind, and read elk movement patterns ✔️ Run real-world elk calling sequences that sound like a herd, not a hunter ✔️ Apply the “Glass-Before-Push” method to avoid blowing opportunities ✔️ Use my IF-THEN elk playbook to adjust on the fly and stay lethal

These aren't gimmicks or guesswork. These are high-level, field-tested public land elk hunting tactics that work when bulls go silent, when pressure spikes, and when you’re grinding through tough country alone or with a tight crew.

You'll also learn how to: • Call elk in pressured units without sounding like every other hunter • Hunt transition zones from nighttime feeding areas • Read terrain features and adapt when bulls don’t play by the rules • Build a decision-making process that keeps you calm, confident, and effective

This is a must-listen for DIY backcountry elk hunters, whether you’re chasing September bugles with a bow or pushing ridges with a rifle later in the season. If you're tired of coming home empty and want to consistently put yourself in elk—this episode delivers.

For the serious public land hunter ready to level up their elk game, this episode is loaded with practical advice you can apply this season.

Struggling to find elk on public land? In this episode, we dive deep into the top signs you’re hunting a dead zone—and exactly what to do about it. If you’ve ever spent days glassing empty basins, hiking through dry, high-pressure terrain, or chasing silent bulls that vanish without a trace, this is your wake-up call.

Based on 33+ years of experience in the mountains, this episode covers how to: • Recognize the signs of a dead zone early • Read elk behavior based on feed, weather, pressure, and thermals • Adjust your strategy for over-pressured elk hunting units • Build mobile hunting systems and backup plans that work • Know when to stay put and when it’s time to relocate and reset your elk hunt

This is a must-listen for anyone serious about elk hunting on public land—especially in high-pressure areas, OTC units, or during unpredictable rut phases. Whether you’re bowhunting elk during September or rifle hunting later in the season, these are the elk hunting tactics that keep you in the game when other hunters quit.

If you want to punch more elk tags, stop wasting time in empty country, and start making every decision with confidence, this episode is packed with the knowledge you need to adapt and succeed.

If you want to kill more elk on public land, your ability to stalk effectively might be the missing piece. In this episode, I break down 33+ years of elk hunting lessons specifically on how to stalk elk—not just sneaking through timber, but understanding wind, thermals, terrain, and timing in real-world backcountry scenarios.

You’ll learn how to identify stalk-worthy setups, how to approach bulls without getting busted, how to read thermals and shifting winds, and how to use terrain to your advantage. I cover still-hunting strategies, belly crawls, real hunt stories, and the mental discipline it takes to close the deal.

Whether you’re bowhunting elk during the rut or tracking velvet bulls early season, this is one of the most honest and tactical elk hunting podcasts you’ll hear on how to move in close and seal the deal.

🔹 Topics Covered:

• The most common stalking mistakes elk hunters make

• How to use wind and thermals like a pro

• Terrain features that help (or ruin) your stalk

• Why rushing is the #1 reason hunters blow close encounters

• Real solo public land elk hunting breakdowns

This is more than just theory. It’s 30+ years of failed stalks, painful lessons, and bulls on the ground.

🎯 If you want to stalk smarter, hunt more intentionally, and close the gap with confidence—this episode will change your approach in the field.

If you're putting in the miles, packing the gear, and grinding it out—but still going home without a bull—you might be making the same critical mistake that costs most public land elk hunters their shot.

I’m Matt Hartsky with Backbone Unlimited, and in this episode, I break down the single most common timing error I see ruin elk hunts year after year. We’re talking about why first light and last light are everything when it comes to killing bulls on public land—and how to make sure you're finally in the right place at the right time.

We’ll cover:

• Why bulls move differently on pressured public land

• The two golden windows every hunter must prioritize

• Common mistakes that blow your opportunity before the elk even show

• How to structure your entire hunt to capitalize on the only hours that matter

• Why trying to hunt elk all day might actually be hurting your odds

This episode is a wake-up call. If you're tired of burning boot leather and coming home empty-handed, this one's for you.

👉 Join the TEAM: https://BackboneUnlimited.com Get access to exclusive hunting content, elite gear discounts, and direct coaching from Matt inside the TEAM BACKBONE Membership.

What if your success in elk country came down to one overlooked detail—where you’re set up before daylight?

In this episode, I break down the one tactic that changed everything for me in elk hunting. It's not a gimmick. It's a real-world strategy based on elk behavior, pressure, thermals, and terrain. Once I started targeting transition zones between nighttime feeding and bedding areas, everything changed. I went from chasing bugles to being where the elk already want to go—and the results followed.

I'll walk you through:

• What most hunters do wrong in the first hour of daylight

• How to e-scout and identify "kill zones"

• What kind of slope to target and why it works

• How to move in the dark without blowing elk out

• A subtle calling sequence that brings bulls in without overcalling

If you're tired of being one ridge too late or one bugle behind, this episode will change how you think about your approach.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our membership at BackboneUnlimited.com for full access to exclusive training, tactics, gear, and community.

Train harder. Hunt smarter. Live relentless.

New to elk hunting? This episode is your fast track to avoiding the rookie mistakes that ruin hunts. Whether you’re chasing bulls in big country for the first time or still trying to notch your first tag, I’m breaking down 5 essential tips every new elk hunter needs to hear.

From e-scouting strategies and calling discipline to understanding elk behavior and managing your gear—we cover the foundational skills that separate frustrated hunters from successful ones.

I’ve spent 33+ years hunting elk across the West. These are the exact lessons I wish someone had told me when I started.

In this episode:

• The #1 mistake new elk hunters make

• How to find elk on public land—without luck

• Why calling can kill your hunt

• The mental edge that keeps you in the game

• What gear matters (and what doesn’t)

🎯 Learn faster. Hunt smarter. Stay in the game longer.

Want to take your training, mindset, and gear prep to the next level? 🔥 Join TEAM BACKBONE — the tribe for relentless hunters.

• 20% off site-wide

• Monthly exclusive t-shirts

• Full access to our member-only digital vault

• Direct advice from Matt Hartsky

• Private group + monthly gear giveaways

Subscribe now and share this with your hunting buddies. Let’s get more elk hunters across the finish line.

Struggling to tag bulls on public land? You might be following the wrong advice. In this episode, I’m busting the top 3 elk hunting myths that keep DIY hunters stuck, frustrated, and empty-handed. If you’ve been told calling is the only way, that the moon phase controls elk movement, or that bugling scares off bulls—you need to hear this.

I’m Matt Hartsky, founder of Backbone Unlimited. After 33+ years of public land elk hunting across Colorado, Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, I’ve seen the same myths repeated by well-meaning hunters year after year—and I’ve also watched those myths destroy confidence and ruin otherwise good hunts.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Why some of the most common elk calling advice is flat-out wrong • The truth about bugling vs cow calling elk in high-pressure units • How to hunt elk when they’re silent or call-shy • The real story behind moon phase elk hunting—and why it’s often irrelevant • How to adapt your public land elk hunting strategy for better results • Solo elk hunting tactics and when to ditch the calls altogether • Why reading wind, pressure, and behavior beats any one-size-fits-all tactic

This episode is built for: • Public land elk hunters chasing bulls in western states • Archery hunters in OTC or draw units • Rifle hunters learning to call, stalk, and adapt • DIY elk hunters tired of second-guessing their strategy • Anyone ready to stop repeating bad advice and start hunting smarter

If you’re looking for elk hunting tips for public land that are based on experience—not hype—this is the real talk that cuts through the noise. We’ll help you sharpen your mindset, reset your strategy, and get back to what actually works in the field.

Hit play now and start hunting elk with the confidence and clarity that leads to filled tags—and full freezers.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

Running out of time before elk season? Don’t panic—this episode is your no-BS survival guide. Matt Hartsky breaks down exactly what to focus on when you’re underprepared and overwhelmed. From quick fitness wins and gear triage to mindset shifts and a simplified hunt plan, you’ll learn how to show up sharp—even if you’re behind. Elk don’t care how prepared you feel—they care how smart you hunt. Let’s get to work.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down one of the most overlooked yet game-changing skills in Western hunting—glassing. Learn how to glass like a predator, not a tourist. Discover field-proven tactics for picking glassing points, using thermals to your advantage, gridding terrain, choosing binos vs spotters, and knowing what to do after you spot an animal. Whether you’re chasing elk or high country mule deer, this episode will teach you how to slow down, see more, and make the mountain work for you.

Why Bulls Hang Up—And What to Do Differently

If you’re bowhunting elk and bulls keep hanging up just out of range, this is probably why.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the #1 elk calling mistake most Western bowhunters make—calling too early and from too far away. This single error ruins more close encounters than a bad bugle ever will. And if you’ve had bulls respond, move in, then suddenly go silent… chances are you’ve made this mistake without even realizing it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why calling from 200+ yards away kills your setup

• How to get inside the “kill zone” (80–120 yards) before making a sound

• How elk use sight, sound, and scent to confirm danger—and how to beat all three

• Why outdated advice like “just bugle back” can get you busted

• How to call with purpose, not panic

• Strategic elk setups for bowhunters on public land

• How to move through timber, terrain, and thermals undetected

• How to close the gap and create real shot opportunities with less calling

Whether you’re brand new to elk hunting or a seasoned bowhunter struggling with hung-up bulls, this episode will change how you think about calling, movement, and what it really takes to get within bow range.

Elk Hunting & Mindset Training That Actually Matters

Welcome to Backbone Unlimited—I’m Matt Hartsky. This episode isn’t just about elk hunting strategies or backcountry gear. It’s about the deeper, harder lessons that only the wilderness can teach—the kind that don’t show up in books, podcasts, or hunting forums. These are the truths you earn when you’re ten miles in, soaked to the bone, and still pushing forward.

Inside This Episode:

You’ll hear the 5 biggest backcountry lessons that changed my life as a hunter, a father, and a man. These aren’t theories. They’re field-forged truths—shaped by real elk hunts, real pain, and real growth.

We’ll talk about:

• How failure, pressure, and grit build better hunters

• The mental tools I rely on when the mountain gets brutal

• What elk hunting taught me about parenting, business, and grief

• Why the backcountry is the ultimate mirror for personal growth

• How to apply these hard-won lessons to your own life and hunts

If you’re a public land elk hunter, backcountry grinder, or just a man in a hard season—this episode is for you. It’s raw, real, and built for those who live relentless.

If you're hunting elk on public land this fall and struggling to get into bow range, there’s one tactic most hunters overlook—and it just might change everything: still-hunting. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I’m breaking down how to still-hunt for elk the right way—based on over 33 years of boots-on-the-ground Western hunting experience.

Still-hunting is one of the most effective, underused tactics for creating close-range encounters with pressured bulls, especially when calling fails, bugles go silent, and hunting pressure pushes elk into thick cover. But it’s not just about sneaking through the woods—it’s about learning how to move with purpose, read fresh sign, and let the mountain tell you where the elk are right now.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • How to still-hunt elk effectively in thick timber and rugged terrain • When to go stealth, when to be aggressive, and how to know the difference • Reading fresh elk sign and understanding how elk use cover during daylight hours • How to stay in the game during midday with the right backcountry elk hunting mindset • Using wind, thermals, shadows, and silence to your advantage • E-scouting tactics to locate terrain that actually holds elk • Gear tips for staying quiet, mobile, and mentally locked-in during long days afield

Recommended For: • Public land elk hunters looking for more consistent encounters • Archery hunters in pressured OTC units • DIY backcountry hunters learning to adapt when calling fails • Hunters who struggle to get close to bulls in silent woods • Anyone wanting to hunt elk without relying on calls or bugling

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still not finding elk, this episode might be the shift you need. Still-hunting isn’t easy—but when it works, it’s deadly.

Tune in and learn how to slow down, sharpen your awareness, and start killing more elk on public land—one silent step at a time.

Public land hunting isn’t just about tags, bulls, or big bucks—it’s about who you are when no one’s watching. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I’m laying out the unwritten rules of public land hunting—what I call the Code of the West. These aren't printed in a game regulations booklet, but they matter just as much. Because in the backcountry, your reputation is built on how you hunt, not just what you kill.

I’m Matt Hartsky, and after 33+ years of hunting the West, I’ve seen the best and worst of public land behavior. If you’ve ever said “It’s public land, I can do what I want,” this episode will challenge your thinking. And if you already believe in hunting with character, this will help you lead by example and pass that mindset on.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • How to handle trail encounters, stock animals, and shared access • Respecting active stalks, setups, and camps in the field • First blood and recovery zone ethics—how to avoid ugly situations • Prime-time etiquette—why your choices affect more than your own hunt • Glassing spot protocol and how to avoid unnecessary conflict • The difference between entitled behavior and earned respect • How character in the field creates better hunts for everyone

This episode is built for: • DIY public land hunters—elk, mule deer, antelope, and more • Backcountry hunters who take pride in doing things the right way • New hunters who want to learn the culture and unwritten ethics • Anyone who values respect, discipline, and shared wild places

The Code of the West isn’t about rules—it’s about respect. And it’s not about being soft—it’s about being someone others would be proud to hunt with.

Listen now to sharpen more than just your tactics—sharpen your standard. Because how you hunt is who you are.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

Want to find more elk in September? It starts with understanding where bulls are going and why. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down exactly how to locate bull elk during the archery rut—based on behavior, food sources, thermals, pressure, and topography. From bachelor groups to bugling bulls, you’ll learn how to use the elk’s own biology and habits to your advantage. This isn’t guesswork. These are proven strategies from 33 years of Western elk hunting on public land. Whether you're still learning the game or trying to level up, this episode will give you the tools to hunt smarter, cover ground more effectively, and get in close on bulls this season.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

If you want to consistently find and kill mature mule deer, you need to stop thinking like a gear junkie and start thinking like a biologist. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down what mule deer actually eat—season by season, elevation by elevation, and region by region. From early spring forbs to late-season bitterbrush, this deep dive into mule deer forage will teach you how to scout smarter, glass more effectively, and hunt bucks where they actually live. Whether you're bowhunting high-country velvet or glassing winter range in the snow, understanding what mule deer eat is the key to finding the kind of bucks that survive pressure and grow old. This isn’t theory—this is the intel most hunters skip. Tune in, take notes, and start hunting where the feed is.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

Fall bear hunting is one of the most overlooked opportunities in the West—but it shouldn’t be. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down everything you need to know to turn your bear tag into a real adventure. You’ll learn how to locate food-driven bears, read terrain, master glassing techniques, dial in shot placement, and recover bears with confidence. Whether you’re hunting timbered ridges, berry slopes, or burned-out basins, these public land black bear hunting tips will give you a serious edge. This isn’t just about killing a bear—it’s about becoming a sharper, more disciplined hunter.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

If you're over 40 and wondering whether backcountry elk hunting is still in the cards, this episode is for you. Matt Hartsky breaks down exactly how to stay lethal in the mountains as a seasoned hunter—covering smart physical training, lighter gear loads, better recovery, strategic pacing, and the mindset shift that makes all the difference. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond, you’ll learn how to hunt elk smarter, not harder, and prove that grit, experience, and discipline still win. Age isn’t your weakness—it’s your edge. Let’s show the mountain you’re not done yet.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

Pronghorn hunting isn’t easy—and it’s not supposed to be. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky shares 33 years of real-world experience chasing public land pronghorn across the wide-open West. You’ll learn how to scout smarter, use terrain and wind to your advantage, select killable bucks, and stalk with patience whether you're hunting with a rifle or a bow. From water hole setups to glassing tactics and next-level shot execution, this is your complete guide to earning a speed goat the hard way. No fences. No shortcuts. Just honest, DIY pronghorn hunting tips that work.

Join TEAM BACKBONE at BackboneUnlimited.com and let’s Train Harder, Hunt Smarter and Never Settle.

Learn How to Stalk Mule Deer Like a Predator In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky shares 33+ years of hard-earned mule deer stalking tactics. From high country velvet bucks to late-season rifle hunts, you’ll learn how to choose the right buck to stalk, master wind and terrain, close the distance undetected, and execute your shot under pressure. Whether you're bowhunting or packing a rifle, this is your complete guide to spotting, planning, and killing mature public land mule deer bucks.

Archery Elk Hunting Tips From 30+ Years in the Field

Where should you aim to ethically kill an elk with a bow? It’s one of the most searched—and most misunderstood—topics in archery elk hunting.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down elk shot placement based on 30+ years of real-world bowhunting experience—not just diagrams or opinions from the internet. If you're serious about making clean, ethical kills and understanding vital zone anatomy, this is the deep-dive you need.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Exactly where to aim on a broadside, quartering away, frontal, and steep angle shot

• How to visualize your exit point and avoid gut shots

• Which angles offer high-percentage kills—and which shots to avoid

• How to practice for high-pressure shots in real hunting conditions

• Why disciplined shot timing and body language reading are critical

• How to improve confidence and kill efficiency on public land bulls

Whether you’re a new bowhunter learning how to shoot an elk or a seasoned elk hunter refining your kill zone strategy, this episode is packed with practical, proven advice. If you’ve searched “best archery shot on an elk,” “where to aim on a bull elk,” or “ethical elk shot placement,” you’re in the right place.

This episode will help you draw with confidence, execute clean kills, recover faster, and honor every shot you take in elk country.

Want to Kill More Elk This Season? Start by Understanding Elk Behavior 5 Phases of the Elk Hunting Season – Strategy, Tactics, and Timing That Actually Work

Whether you're new to elk hunting or have decades of experience, success starts with one thing—knowing what elk are doing and why throughout the entire season.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down the five distinct phases of elk season—from early season to late season—so you can stop guessing, adapt your tactics, and finally hunt elk on their terms, not yours.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How elk behavior shifts from early season to post-rut

• Archery and rifle tactics based on real-time elk priorities

• When to call, when to go silent, and how to read elk body language

• How bulls and cows move, feed, and vocalize throughout each phase

• Why most hunters fail to adapt—and how to avoid their mistakes

This is your complete seasonal elk hunting guide—packed with actionable advice for public land hunters. Whether you're dialing in your early season elk hunting strategy, learning how to call elk during the rut, trying to locate post-rut bulls, or chasing elk in the late season, this episode delivers the insight you need to make smarter moves and create more opportunities.

If you're serious about tagging more bulls—and want to understand elk on a deeper level—this episode is a must-listen.

What’s the difference between mule deer hunting vs elk hunting? In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the five key differences every serious Western hunter needs to know—behavior, terrain, pressure response, interaction, and mindset. Drawing from over 30 years of boots-on-the-ground experience, Matt shares real-world insights on how elk move as social herd animals versus how mature mule deer bucks live and bed in solitude, why terrain and elevation shape your tactics, how each species responds to hunting pressure, and why elk hunting is tactical while mule deer hunting is surgical.

If you’re a Western hunter transitioning between species—or just want to sharpen your edge for public land elk and mule deer hunts—this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and become a more versatile, effective hunter.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the hard lessons learned from 33+ years of bowhunting elk. From blown stalks to missed opportunities, he shares the five biggest mistakes that cost him elk—and the lessons that turned failure into success.

You’ll learn why silence kills more bulls than bugles, how to read bugles before you chase them, why your ears matter more than your eyes in tight timber, how to use calling as a tool (not a crutch), and how to master the art of closing the distance without getting busted.

If you’re serious about archery elk hunting, this episode will help you shorten the learning curve, avoid years of frustration, and start turning close calls into punched tags.

September elk hunting is where dreams are made—or crushed. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down how to consistently find rutting bulls during one of the most exciting—and frustrating—months in Western hunting. From Colorado to Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, Matt explains the three phases of September elk behavior, how to adjust your tactics through the month, and why understanding the rut timeline separates successful hunters from the rest. Learn where bulls bed, how cows dictate movement, how pressure changes everything, and the best morning, evening, and midday strategies to put yourself in bow range. If you’re tired of chasing bugles and want a proven game plan for September elk hunting success, this episode is for you.

Hunting elk in thick timber is one of the toughest challenges in Western hunting—and one of the most rewarding. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down how to consistently kill elk in dark, close-quarters timber where bulls move like ghosts and every step matters. Learn how to read elk sign in the thick stuff, move without getting busted, set up and call in tight cover, and make ethical shots when your window is just a few feet wide. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed hunting pressured elk in timber, this episode gives you the strategies, mindset, and proven tactics to turn chaos into opportunity.

Are you really ready for elk season—or just hoping you are? In this Backbone Unlimited episode, Matt Hartsky breaks down the difference between showing up with a tag and gear versus being truly prepared for the grind of backcountry elk hunting. From training for brutal pack outs, mastering wind and thermals, dialing calling strategy, and building mental toughness, to shooting clean under pressure—this episode gives you the framework to evaluate your true elk hunting readiness. If you’re serious about elk hunting success in the West, this one will expose the gaps and show you how to close them.

Elk hunting success doesn’t end with the shot—it depends on how fast and how well you take care of your meat in hot weather. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down proven strategies for keeping elk meat cool, clean, and safe when the temperatures climb. Learn step-by-step tactics for quartering efficiently, cooling meat in the field, using creeks or snow correctly, packing out in extreme heat, and protecting your harvest overnight. Whether you’re chasing bulls in early September archery season or facing a warm rifle hunt, this episode gives you the systems and tools to prevent spoilage and bring every pound home.

Fueling your body is just as important as the boots on your feet or the bow in your hand. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down backcountry hunting nutrition—how to fuel, recover, and sustain energy on multi-day hunts for elk, mule deer, and other Western big game.

With 29+ years as a strength, conditioning, and nutrition coach, Matt has tested it all—carnivore, keto, high-carb, balanced whole food—and he reveals what really works when you’re miles deep, packing heavy, and pushing through long days on the mountain.

Learn how to:

• Build a backcountry meal plan that supports strength, endurance, and focus

• Avoid common fueling mistakes that wreck hunts

• Balance protein, carbs, and fats for sustained performance

• Apply real-world strategies from elite athletes to the backcountry

If you want to hunt harder, recover faster, and stay sharp from Day 1 to Day 7, this is your guide to backcountry performance nutrition.

Bowhunting elk is brutal—and most hunters fail because of simple, preventable mistakes. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the five biggest archery elk hunting mistakes that cost hunters shot opportunities, close encounters, and entire seasons. From calling without a plan to blowing thermals, moving too aggressively, and falling apart at full draw, Matt explains what goes wrong and exactly how to fix it.

If you want to consistently tag bulls on public land, you need more than good gear and range practice—you need discipline, patience, and a strategy that works when everything’s on the line.

Perfect for archery elk hunters, bowhunters, and western big game hunters looking to sharpen their skills and avoid costly errors.

Finding cow elk is the key to consistent elk hunting success. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down exactly how to locate cow elk during hunting season—and why it matters whether you’re chasing bulls, filling a cow tag, or just trying to put more elk in front of your glass.

You’ll learn how cow elk behavior shifts by season, where to look for bedding and feeding areas, how to identify fresh cow sign, and why understanding travel corridors is the missing link for most hunters. Matt also dives into e-scouting strategies, late-season survival patterns, and how hunting pressure changes cow movement.

If you want to elevate your elk hunting game—rut or late season—this episode gives you the step-by-step strategies to find the nucleus of the herd.

Hunting a giant mule deer buck on public land isn’t luck—it’s a system. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the proven process for finding and killing truly big, mature mule deer. From defining what a “trophy” really is, to scouting overlooked country, glassing like a pro, reading pressure, and executing disciplined stalks, this episode gives you the strategies serious hunters need to chase 180+ inch bucks on their own terms. If you’ve ever dreamed of tagging a monster mule deer with grit, patience, and boots-on-the-ground effort, this episode is your blueprint.

In this Backbone Unlimited episode, Matt Hartsky shares five hard-earned mule deer hunting lessons from 30+ seasons on Western public land. These aren’t generic tips—you’ll learn the real strategies that separate close calls from filled tags. From hunting where mule deer actually live, mastering patience on stalks, understanding wind and thermals, becoming a disciplined glasser, to being ready when kill windows open—these lessons will sharpen your game whether you’re chasing bucks with a bow or rifle.

If you’re serious about mule deer hunting success in the high country, sagebrush, or badlands, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and find more mature bucks.

Archery elk season will humble you—no matter how much gear you buy or how many bugling videos you watch. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky shares 30+ years of uncut bowhunting elk experience: how to build the mental toughness elk hunting demands, create real shot opportunities (not just encounters), call with purpose, and set up for success when bulls finally close the distance.

Whether you’re a new bowhunter or a seasoned DIY public land grinder, this episode breaks down the tactics and mindset shifts that actually kill bulls with a bow—mindset, movement, thermals, calling strategies, and closing the deal in those final 10 seconds.

If you’re chasing elk this September, listen before you hit the mountains.

Public land hunting isn’t forgiving—and the truth is, most hunters fail because of small mistakes that add up to big failures. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the 5 biggest mistakes Western hunters make on public land and how to avoid them. From ignoring hunting pressure, sticking to dead zones too long, and underestimating backcountry fitness—to sloppy access routes and waiting for “perfect” conditions—you’ll learn how to hunt elk and mule deer smarter, adapt faster, and increase your success this season.

Whether you’re bowhunting elk in September or glassing mule deer basins in November, this episode delivers real-world public land hunting tips to help you fill more tags and avoid season-ending errors.

Mental toughness—not gear, not fitness—is the ultimate deciding factor in Western hunting success. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky dives deep into how grit separates hunters who fill tags from those who head home empty.

You’ll learn how to train your mind before season, push through fatigue and setbacks in the mountains, and stay sharp when elk and mule deer hunts test every ounce of determination. From breaking mental walls to building daily reset routines, this is your guide to mastering the mental side of backcountry hunting.

If you want to hunt harder, last longer, and finish strong when others quit, this episode will show you how to build the toughness it takes.

Every elk hunter loves the dream scenario—ripping a bugle and having a bull scream back, charging in like a freight train. But most of the time, the real skill isn’t in how loud you can call—it’s in knowing when to call. Timing is the difference between pulling a bull into bow range and blowing him out of the drainage.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down the nuts and bolts of calling timing. You’ll learn how to read the moment and decide when to crank up the aggression with bugles, chuckles, and excited cow talk—and when to stay silent and let curiosity do the work. We’ll cover how timing shifts throughout September, why pressured bulls require restraint, and how rhythm and discipline turn your calls from noise into real conversation.

If you’ve ever wondered whether to hammer the tube or hold back, this episode gives you the tactical playbook for calling smarter, not louder.

Rutting bulls aren’t random—they’re anchored to cows, and cows are anchored to food. If you’ve ever chased fading bugles or watched a hot basin go silent overnight, this episode connects the dots. I break down why nutrition drives September movement, how cow groups “lock” bulls into predictable patterns, and the exact places to find reliable feed when pressure and weather shift the game.

What you’ll learn:

• The truth about rutting bulls (and the myths that waste your time)

• How food dictates daily travel: night feed → dawn transition → bedding → evening feed

• Where to find September groceries: alpine meadows, riparian pockets, north-facing benches, fresh burns

• How pressure pushes cows into hidden “living-room sized” feed and how to set up on those seams

• Morning intercepts, evening ambushes, and when calling helps vs. hurts around food

Perfect for DIY public-land hunters who want a repeatable plan—no more chasing echoes, just hunting where elk actually live.

In this episode, we’re tackling a piece of elk hunting strategy most hunters overlook: choosing the right camp location. Your tent isn’t just a place to crash—it’s your base of operations. Where you set camp determines how rested you are, how much ground you can cover, and whether elk even stay in the drainage you’re hunting.

I break down the blueprint for picking camp the smart way, including:

• The real purpose of camp: comfort vs. mobility, base vs. spike setups

• How close is too close to elk country, and why proximity matters

• Terrain and access factors that make or break safety and packouts

• Water, firewood, and shelter needs that keep you in the game

• How to avoid human pressure and keep your camp invisible

• Weather, wildlife, and safety mistakes that can end a hunt early

• When to stay stable vs. when to stay mobile with your camp strategy

• Hard lessons I’ve learned from both bad and great camp setups

• A clear step-by-step action plan for beginners setting camp for the first time

If you’ve ever burned daylight hiking from a poorly placed base camp, blown elk out of a meadow with your tent, or fought through a storm in the wrong spot—you know how critical camp location really is. By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make camp work for you instead of against you.

Elk hunting success isn’t about luck—and it’s not even always about skill. It’s about persistence. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down why time in the field is the single biggest factor separating consistent elk killers from the guys who go home empty.

We’ll cover the myth of quick success, why most bulls are killed on the back half of a hunt, and how each extra day compounds your chances of opportunity. You’ll learn how to push through the mental grind, manage your energy for the long game, and turn slow mornings into valuable lessons instead of discouragement.

This isn’t about highlight reels—it’s about reality. Elk hunting takes grit, patience, and staying power. The hunters who fill tags aren’t the ones who quit on day three—they’re the ones still grinding on day seven, day ten, and beyond.

If you can master persistence, you’ll not only stack the odds in your favor—you’ll build the toughness and resilience that carry over into every part of life.

Elk hunting in September isn’t static. The bulls you find on opening day aren’t behaving the same way two weeks later. Hunting pressure reshapes everything—bugling, travel routes, and daylight activity. The difference between success and frustration comes down to whether you adapt as quickly as the elk do.

In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down how bulls respond to hunting pressure week by week. You’ll learn what makes opening week so electric, how bulls adjust once trucks and calls flood the mountains, and why mid-September forces them to balance rut intensity with survival. We’ll also cover late-September tactics when bugles fade and bulls rut in silence.

If you’ve ever felt like elk “disappeared” after the opener, this episode shows you how pressure shapes their behavior and gives you the tools to stay lethal from the first bugle of September to the last.

What do you do when the bugles stop? In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down how to hunt elk when the mountains go quiet. Silent bulls frustrate even seasoned hunters, but they’re far from unkillable—you just need a different playbook.

We’ll cover why elk go silent—pressure, weather, rut timing, and herd dynamics—and how to adapt with woodsmanship instead of relying on bugles. You’ll learn how to read fresh sign, set ambushes in travel corridors, and move with discipline through timber. I’ll show you how to use subtle calling when it matters, how to play the wind with precision, and how to keep your mindset sharp when doubt starts to creep in.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a blueprint for staying lethal in the silence. Because elk don’t vanish when they stop bugling—they just stop giving themselves away. If you can stay patient, hunt smarter, and adapt, you’ll be ready when those quiet bulls slip in like ghosts.

Killing a bull is only half the hunt—the real test begins with the packout. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down everything you need to know about hauling elk meat off the mountain—mentally, physically, and strategically.

We’ll cover the mental game of embracing the grind, the gear that makes heavy loads possible, how to manage weight and multiple trips, navigating brutal terrain, and staying safe when fatigue sets in. I’ll also share lessons I’ve learned the hard way—mistakes that turned into nightmares, and strategies that made the difference between misery and success.

By the end, you’ll have a blueprint for packouts that keeps you safe, efficient, and relentless in the toughest part of elk hunting. Because the truth is this: the packout isn’t the end of the hunt—it IS the hunt. And how you handle it defines the kind of hunter you really are.

Opening day of archery elk season can make or break your entire hunt. Most hunters let adrenaline take over and blow their best chances before the sun even rises. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down how to approach day one with discipline and strategy—so you don’t sabotage your season before it starts.

We’ll cover trailhead discipline, how to read sign and sound, when to be aggressive vs. patient, smart calling tactics for pressured elk, positioning for first light and evening hunts, and how to use the “dead hours” of midday to your advantage. I’ll also share lessons I’ve learned the hard way from opening days gone wrong—and how you can avoid making the same mistakes.

By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to start your hunt with confidence, control, and a clear plan. Opening day doesn’t decide whether you kill a bull, but it absolutely sets the tone for the days that follow. Hunt sloppy and you’ll spend the week recovering. Hunt disciplined and you’ll stack the odds in your favor every single day.

In elk country, no law is more absolute than the law of the wind. You can get away with a missed call, a snapped twig, or a blown setup—but the second an elk catches your scent, the hunt is over. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I’m breaking down the science and strategy behind wind and thermals—the invisible force that dictates every move elk make and every decision you should make as a hunter.

We’ll cover the daily cycle of thermals, how weather and terrain bend air currents, and why elk bed, feed, and travel where they do. I’ll show you how to plan approaches, setups, and ambushes that keep your scent safe—and how to adapt when the wind inevitably shifts. You’ll also learn how elk use air movement to survive, and how hunters who ignore it end up educating elk instead of killing them.

Mastering the law of the wind isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of every successful elk hunt. Respect it, and you stay in the game. Ignore it, and you’ll never know how many elk you blew out before you ever saw them.

Every elk hunter gets busted—it’s not a matter of if, but when. The real question is what you do next. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, I break down exactly how to handle those gut-punch moments when elk blow out of a setup and leave you standing there with nothing but silence and a racing heart.

We’ll cover why patience after a bust is your best weapon, how to diagnose whether it was wind, sight, or sound that spooked them, and how to relocate elk that didn’t actually leave the country—they just shifted to the next pocket of cover. You’ll learn when calling can calm a herd, when it just makes things worse, and how to reset your mindset so frustration doesn’t kill your hunt faster than a bad wind does.

Getting busted doesn’t have to end your hunt. With the right response, it can be the beginning of your next opportunity.