The Bugle editorial staff is seeking manuscripts depicting the world of elk and the hunt. We accept fiction, non-fiction and scientific articles geared to the layman. Query letters are encouraged, but we frequently accept unsolicited manuscripts, particularly when it comes to hunting stories. Stories we use generally range from 750-4,500 words (3,000 words maximum for Women in the Outdoors and Situation Ethics departments). Electronic queries and submittals—preferably Word (.doc) or text (.txt) files attached to email—are welcome.
 
By reading Bugle prior to submitting, you will gain a better sense of the kinds of stories we might publish.  The magazine is not available on newsstands, but may be purchased at most Bass Pro and Sportsman's Warehouse stores throughout the U.S.

Thoughtful hunting stories and elk-related human interest stories are always high on our need list, as are essays on issues affecting hunting and conservation. Writers are advised to watch the "Call for Stories" announcements in the "Bugling Back" (letters to editor) department in each issue. 

We prefer hunting stories in which the hunter’s satisfaction lies at least as much in appreciation for elk and other wildlife, and for wild country and the total outdoors experience, as in shooting a large bull. Sometimes the sheer difficulty or novelty of a hunt—and/or a writer’s style, tone or sense of humor—attracts our interest. We will evaluate your story based on content, writing quality and our needs for the coming year. This process may take several months.
 
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is a nonprofit conservation organization committed to putting membership dollars into wildlife habitat, management and research. Donated manuscripts enable RMEF to devote more funds to habitat, and are tax deductible. We encourage and appreciate donated manuscripts, but gladly purchase them as well. (We buy First North American serial rights.) Our basic rate is 20 cents per word, paid on acceptance. Should your story appear in Bugle, you will receive three complimentary copies.
 
Feel free to inquire about the status of your manuscript at any time. For more information, contact:

PJ DelHomme, Bugle Hunting Editor
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
5705 Grant Creek
Missoula, Montana  59808
(406) 523-4570
bugle@rmef.org