Wild Elk in Ohio

• Although there is evidence that elk were common in Ohio prior to settlement, they were overhunted both by native Americans and settlers in the 19th century, and ultimately eliminated. No wild elk herds can be found on Ohio public land.
  
  

Private Elk Preserves

• Some Ohio residents raise their own elk herds on private land. This provides the only option for elk hunting in the state.
  
  

Booking a Trip

• Hunting elk on private preserves is an option.elk image by Earl Robbins from Fotolia.com
  
  A number of Ohio hunting preserves advertise. In addition to elks, wild boar, buffalo and deer are among the species that can be hunted on private land.
  
  

Hunting weapons

• Elk can be hunted with rifles or other firearms. Bowhunting is more traditional, but requires physical strength to draw high pressure bows, and closer proximity to the target than rifle hunting.
  
  

Other Amenities

• Private preserves offer not only hunting opportunities, but lodging, outfitting and guide services. Although these preserves provide general assistance in the hunt, they typically require hunters to be reasonably proficient with their weapon of choice.