October separates hunters who chase elk from those who understand them. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down how to glass October bulls in transition zones—the overlooked pockets where post-rut elk recover, feed, and survive when the mountains go quiet. After the chaos of September fades, bulls retreat into small, protected sanctuaries that hold feed, water, shade, and safety. Learning how to find and glass these zones is what turns October from a frustrating lull into one of the most rewarding times of the season. Matt explains how to identify productive mid-elevation transition areas, how post-rut bulls use them day to day, and how to adjust your glassing position, timing, and angles for maximum visibility without blowing your scent. You’ll learn how light, thermals, and terrain all interact to expose hidden elk—and why patience, not mileage, kills more bulls this month than any other factor. This episode teaches you how to hunt October elk by reading the land instead of chasing noise. From understanding slope aspect and wind behavior to interpreting subtle movement through your glass, it’s a masterclass in post-rut precision. If you’ve ever stared across empty drainages in October wondering where all the elk went, this one shows you the truth—they didn’t leave. You just need to learn how to see them.