The elk hunting community lost a true pioneer this week with the passing of Wayne Carlton at age 81. A legend in the elk hunting and calling world, Carlton was born in 1944 and died on February 11th, 2025 surrounded by his family, elk mounts and memories.Â
A statement released on Carlton’s Native by Carlton Instagram account read, “We are pretty sure he entered the pearly gates screaming on an elk bugle with bow in hand charging up the mountains, trying to call all the critters he can find.”Â
There’s been an outpouring of thoughts and prayers from avid elk hunters across the country following Carlton’s passing.Â
Corey Jacobsen of Elk 101 shared, “In 2016, I had the opportunity to visit Wayne at his home in Montrose, Colorado while filming “The Linguists” film, and we spent the day talking about the history of elk calls and elk calling.Â
He was truly one of the original pioneers of elk calling, and I’d bet there aren’t many elk hunters who don’t know who he was.Â
For over 40 years, his passion and influence on elk calling and elk hunting never dimmed, and generations of elk hunters owe a part of their love for the sport to those who paved the way – including Wayne Carlton.
He will be missed, but his legacy will not be forgotten.”
Elk Calling Academy shared, “Wayne was a legendary figure who revolutionized calling and helped countless hunters better understand these magnificent animals.Â
His contributions to our hunting heritage and the innovations he brought to elk and turkey calling have forever changed how we pursue bulls and toms in the mountains.Â
He was one of our sport’s greatest teachers that loved to help others and share his stories.Â
I’m truly honored to have known Wayne, and most of all, to have called him a friend!”
His family says, “Wayne didn’t leave just kin. He left a culture that everyone was a part of.Â
Before he passed, he wanted you all to know you were part of his family and that we all are a fraternity connected by the love and the connection of calling elk.Â
He loved the shows and doing seminars and will miss you all. He was proud and humbled to be a small part of the stories shared.”
The family says Carlton’s ashes will be spread in the West Elks in Unit 54 where he began his career.Â
