There is nothing quite like calling in a massive Bull Moose with a tool you made yourself. A traditional birch bark call isn’t just for show—the natural bark produces a resonance that plastic calls struggle to replicate.
In this tutorial, we head into the woods to find the perfect White Birch tree and walk you through the entire process of crafting your own call.
You need a White Birch (preferred over Yellow or Gold for its thickness) with a clear section of bark. Look for a spot about 18 to 24 inches high that is free of knots and branches. This ensures your bark won’t split when you roll it.
Make two horizontal cuts and one vertical cut connecting them. Pro Tip: Don’t cut too deep—you only want the bark, you don’t want to damage the tree itself. Peel the “ream” of bark off carefully.
This is the art form. Roll the bark into a megaphone shape. We recommend putting the “messed up” or rougher edge on the inside of the cone to keep the outside looking clean. It may take a few tries to get the flexibility right.
While the bark is fresh and pliable:
Secure it with a zip tie or elastic band.
Let it dry for a few days so it holds its shape.
Drill small holes along the seam.
Stitch it up using bailing twine, leather, or thin wire.
Now you have a piece of gear that will last for years and has a story behind it.
