Tule Elk Hunts in California

Featured Hunts

We think these three hunts should be at the top of your list.

Landowner Tag Cow Tule Elk Hunt - 3 Days

2M Hunting offers world class Tule Elk hunts. We work with ranches and the state of California to receive guaranteed landowner tags for Tule elk bulls and cows. Every year we receive 5-10 bull tags and 3-5 cow tags. We target Trophy Bulls and manage the herd to keep the quality the best it can be year to year. Our PLM ( private land management) tags are valid for use from July 1st – December 31st. Mid July through September is the peak of the rut. Bull elk hunts are scheduled for 10 days of hunting. Cow elk hunts are scheduled for two days of hunting. Trophy bulls between 285” – 350”+ can be expected, with most all bulls making Boone and Crockett minimum. Expect to spend most days glassing long distances looking over lots of bulls. Spot and stalk methods are used. Maximum of 2 hunters. Lodging is included on bull Hunts.

2M Hunting

Fair Chase

Private

Unspecified

Yes

Unspecified

Meals Provided

Unspecified

5-Day Tule Elk Hunt in Central California

Fully guided tule elk hunts in the North Central region of California, including the Lake Pillsbury, East Park Reservoir, Bear Valley, and Cache Creek zones. No alcohol

6500

Trinity Fork Outfitters

Fair Chase

Public

Unspecified

Yes

Unspecified

Meals Provided

Unspecified

6500

Landowner Tag Bull Tule Elk Hunt - 10 Days

2M Hunting

Fair Chase

Private

Unspecified

Yes

Unspecified

Meals Provided

Unspecified

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About Our Tule Elk Hunts in California

Most important info about these hunts—landscapes, strategies, costs, and comforts.

Summary & Terrain

Tule elk in California draw hunters to a mosaic of private ranches and adjacent public lands in the North Central region, including areas around Lake Pillsbury, East Park Reservoir, Bear Valley, and Cache Creek. Once nearly extirpated, these herds have rebounded under careful management, and today roam oak-studded foothills, open grasslands, and ridge lines overlooking reservoirs. The terrain varies from gentle valley bottoms with thick grasses to steeper hillsides and timbered draws, offering a mix of vantage points for glassing and opportunities for stalks through rolling hills.

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Difficulty & Strategy

These hunts are graded moderate to challenging, with success hinging on sharp glassing skills and patient spot-and-stalk tactics. Guided on a one-to-one or two-to-one basis, hunters will spend much of their time glassing distant bulls—often several hundred yards away—and then carefully closing the gap on foot. Physical fitness is helpful, as some approaches require navigating uneven terrain and brush. While mature bulls scoring in the Boone & Crockett range (285–350+ inches) are the primary objective, cow hunts are also available and typically shorter in duration.

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Amenities

Tule elk hunts in California typically offer lodging at private ranches or remote camps, with accommodations ranging from rustic log cabins and heated canvas tents to simple bunkhouses. Sleeping arrangements often include single beds or bunks with quality bedding, while more basic setups may use sturdy cots. Heating is generally provided by wood-burning stoves, propane heaters or electric heat in lodge facilities. During warmer months, common areas may feature ceiling fans or air conditioning. Most hunt packages also include guided support, onsite meal service and facilities for field dressing and initial trophy care.

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Season & Additional Info

Tule elk seasons generally run from July through December, with mid-July to September marking the peak rut when bulls are most vocal and visible. Bull hunts are typically scheduled for ten days to coincide with peak rutting activity, whereas cow hunts often span two days. Tags are secured via private-land management or landowner tag programs, ensuring a limited number of guaranteed opportunities each year. Most guided packages include lodging, field dressing, and logistics support, leaving hunters free to focus on glassing, stalking, and enjoying California’s scenic hill country.

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Pricing

California Tule elk hunts generally average around $6,500 per hunter. Costs vary based on hunt duration, accommodations, and level of exclusivity. Entry-level packages or group hunts, often two-day outings on shared-ranch property with basic tent or bunkhouse lodging and guide support, fall below the average. Mid-range options commonly include three- to four-day private ranch stays in rustic cabins or heated canvas tents, all meals, one-on-one guiding, and on-site field dressing and trophy care. At the higher end, hunters can expect extended trips, premium cabin lodging or upgraded camps, full-service meal plans, and comprehensive trophy preparation and shipping services. Most outfitters also handle initial meat processing arrangements or donation logistics. Whether you’re a first-time elk hunter or a seasoned stalker, the average price reflects a fully guided experience with comfortable lodging and professional field support throughout the hunt.

FAQs

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Tule Elk Hunts in California

Featured Hunts