Decoding the Roar: A Guide to the RMEF Elk Calling Championships & Corey Jacobsen's Legacy
As a lifelong hunter and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by the art of elk calling. It’s more than just mimicking a bugle; it’s a nuanced conversation with a magnificent animal. And no event embodies this artistry quite like the RMEF Elk Calling Championships. For decades, this competition has showcased the world’s most skilled callers, and the name Corey Jacobsen elk calls and Corey Jacobsen elk calling are synonymous with excellence. This guide will delve into the championships, the techniques of a champion like Corey, and help you understand what it takes to master this challenging skill. Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to refine your technique or a newcomer eager to learn, this is your comprehensive resource.
What are the RMEF Elk Calling Championships?
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) Elk Calling Championships are an annual event held in conjunction with the RMEF’s annual convention and expo. RMEF is a conservation organization dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, and their habitat. The championships aren’t just a spectacle; they raise significant funds for RMEF’s conservation efforts. (RMEF Elk Calling Championships Official Page). Competitors are judged on the authenticity, variety, and overall quality of their calls, encompassing everything from the basic bugle to complex breeding calls and challenge grunts. The competition is divided into several categories, including Men’s, Women’s, and Youth divisions, making it accessible to callers of all ages and experience levels.
The Judging Criteria: What Makes a Winning Call?
Judges at the RMEF Elk Calling Championships aren’t just listening for a loud bugle. They’re evaluating a complex set of skills. Here’s a breakdown:
- Authenticity: Does the call sound like a real elk? This is paramount.
- Variety: Can the caller produce a range of elk vocalizations – bugles, grunts, whines, and screams?
- Control: The ability to modulate volume, pitch, and tone is crucial.
- Sequence: A realistic calling sequence mimics a natural elk interaction.
- Showmanship: While not the primary focus, presentation and confidence play a role.
Corey Jacobsen: A Legacy of Elk Calling Mastery
When you talk about Corey Jacobsen elk calling, you’re talking about a legend. Corey Jacobsen is a six-time RMEF Elk Calling Champion, a feat unmatched in the competition’s history. He’s not just a skilled caller; he’s a dedicated educator, sharing his knowledge through instructional videos, workshops, and his own line of Corey Jacobsen elk calls. (Corey Jacobsen Official Website). What sets Corey apart is his deep understanding of elk behavior and his ability to replicate it with incredible accuracy. He emphasizes the importance of listening to real elk in the field and studying their vocalizations.
Key Techniques from Corey Jacobsen's Approach
Corey doesn’t believe in simply learning a set of calls. He advocates for understanding the why behind each vocalization. Here are some key principles he teaches:
- Diaphragm Control: Corey stresses the importance of mastering diaphragm calls. He believes they offer the greatest control and versatility. (REI Expert Advice on Elk Calling)
- Air Support: Proper breathing and air support are essential for producing realistic calls.
- Jaw and Tongue Placement: Subtle adjustments to jaw and tongue position dramatically affect the tone and quality of the call.
- Understanding Elk Behavior: Knowing when and why elk vocalize is just as important as knowing how to vocalize. For example, a challenge bugle is different than a location bugle.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Corey emphasizes consistent practice, not just during hunting season, but year-round.
Choosing the Right Elk Call: A Beginner's Guide
The world of elk calls can be overwhelming. There are numerous types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the right call for your needs:
| Call Type | Pros | Cons | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diaphragm Call | Greatest control, hands-free operation, versatile | Steep learning curve, requires practice | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Tube Call | Easy to learn, produces loud, realistic bugles | Requires two hands, less versatile | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Bugle Call | Traditional, produces a classic bugle sound | Requires significant breath control, can be difficult to master | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Reed Call | Relatively easy to learn, good for beginners | Can be less realistic than other types | Beginner |
If you’re just starting out, a reed call or a tube call is a good place to begin. As you gain experience, you can progress to a diaphragm call for greater control and realism. Many hunters, including those inspired by Corey Jacobsen elk calls, eventually gravitate towards diaphragm calls for their versatility. Consider your budget and hunting style when making your decision.
Beyond the Bugle: Advanced Elk Calling Techniques
Mastering the basic bugle is just the first step. To truly become a skilled elk caller, you need to learn a range of other vocalizations. Here are a few advanced techniques:
Understanding Different Call Types
- Challenge Bugle: A loud, aggressive bugle used to challenge other bulls.
- Location Bugle: A softer bugle used to locate other elk.
- Grunt: A short, guttural sound used for communication.
- Whine: A pleading sound often used by cows.
- Scream: A high-pitched scream used during the breeding season.
Creating Realistic Calling Sequences
Don’t just randomly string together a series of calls. Think about what a real elk interaction would sound like. Start with a location bugle, followed by a series of grunts and whines, and then perhaps a challenge bugle if you’re trying to provoke a response. Pay attention to the timing and spacing between calls. (USDA Forest Service - Hunting Ethics and Safety – understanding animal behavior is key to ethical hunting)
Preparing for the RMEF Elk Calling Championships
If you’re considering competing in the RMEF Elk Calling Championships, here’s what you need to do to prepare:
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is essential.
- Study Elk Behavior: Learn everything you can about elk vocalizations and behavior.
- Record Yourself: Listen back to your calls and identify areas for improvement.
- Seek Feedback: Ask experienced callers for their opinions.
- Attend Workshops: Consider attending a workshop led by a champion like Corey Jacobsen.
Ethical Elk Calling: Leave No Trace Principles
While mastering the art of elk calling is rewarding, it’s crucial to do so ethically. Always follow Leave No Trace principles (Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics) and respect the wildlife you’re interacting with. Avoid overcalling, which can stress elk and disrupt their natural behavior. Be mindful of other hunters in the area and avoid calling in a way that could create a dangerous situation. Remember, responsible hunting is about conservation and respecting the resource.
The RMEF Elk Calling Championships are a testament to the skill and dedication of elk callers around the world. The legacy of champions like Corey Jacobsen elk calling inspires us all to strive for excellence. By understanding the techniques, practicing diligently, and respecting the animal, you can unlock the secrets of the roar and become a more effective and ethical elk hunter. For more information on elk hunting strategies, check out our article on Advanced Elk Hunting Tactics. And if you're planning a backcountry hunt, be sure to review our Backcountry Safety Checklist.