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In this episode of the Backbone Unlimited Podcast, Matt Hartsky tackles one of the most uncomfortable but important truths in western elk hunting: most elk hunters never become consistent. They may kill an elk once, get lucky every few seasons, or have a great hunt that keeps them coming back—but year-over-year consistency remains out of reach. This episode breaks down why that happens and what actually changes when a hunter moves from hoping for outcomes to controlling what they can.

Drawing on more than three decades of elk hunting experience, Matt explains why time in the field does not automatically equal improvement, how random success can quietly reinforce bad habits, and why inconsistency is usually self-inflicted without hunters realizing it. This is not an episode about calling techniques, secret spots, or trendy tactics. It is a deep dive into decision making, preparation, mindset, and systems—the things that determine whether success is repeatable or random.

Matt walks through the difference between reactive hunting and proactive hunting, how physical durability directly influences strategy on the mountain, and why patience under uncertainty is one of the most overlooked skills in elk hunting. He also explains how consistent hunters evaluate seasons differently, using every hunt—successful or not—as data instead of emotional proof of failure or success.

This conversation is especially relevant in the off season, when applications, planning, and training are all that’s happening and motivation can feel low. It focuses on what can be built when nothing feels urgent: better judgment, stronger preparation, and a clearer understanding of how elk hunting actually works over time. If you’re tired of guessing, chasing luck, or feeling like every season resets the learning curve, this episode will help you understand what consistency really looks like and how it’s earned.