Every elk hunter knows the phrase “Didn’t go 5!”—a call of victory when a bull drops within five steps of being hit. That’s exactly what happened on this unforgettable Idaho archery elk hunt with Stuck N The Rut.
The Hunt Begins
Idaho’s rugged backcountry is home to some of the best elk hunting in the nation, but it’s also one of the most challenging places to chase big bulls. This hunt was no exception. The early mornings were crisp, the mountains steep, and the elk were deep in the rut, making for an adrenaline-filled experience.
After several days of scouting and chasing bugles, the team finally locked onto a bull worth going after. The herd was moving through thick timber, and the wind was unpredictable. Every step had to be calculated, every movement silent. With bow in hand, the stalk was on.
The Perfect Setup
After an hour of careful maneuvering, the bull was within range—broadside at 40 yards. Heart pounding, the archer drew back, settled the pin, and let the arrow fly. The unmistakable thud of a perfect shot echoed through the valley. The bull took off, but he didn’t go far. Within seconds, he wobbled and collapsed.
“Didn’t go 5!”
The excitement was electric. Taking down a mature bull with a bow in the thick Idaho wilderness is no easy feat, and this moment was one to remember. The teamwork, patience, and skill that led up to the shot made it all the more rewarding.
The Pack Out
While the hunt is thrilling, the real work begins after the bull is down. With miles of rugged terrain between the kill site and camp, the team quartered the bull and loaded up their packs. Packing out an elk is no joke—it’s a brutal test of endurance and determination. But every aching muscle was worth it.
Why We Hunt
Hunts like these remind us why we do it. It’s not just about taking an animal; it’s about the experience, the connection with nature, and the respect for the game. Stuck N The Rut’s Idaho archery elk hunt was a perfect example of what makes bowhunting so special—hard work, patience, and the ultimate reward.
This was a hunt that won’t be forgotten anytime soon. And as the saying goes—he didn’t go 5!
