This is the story of one women's journey to becoming a 3x-world champion elk caller. We hope her story leaves other women upcoming in the hunting world inspired. Marisa came into the hunting world with no name, to a women that now has a recognized name and a known game call business. Marisa has captured the attention of the hunting world with her astonishing ability to mimic the majestic vocals of elk, both in the field and on the stage.
From her humble beginnings in a small town in Oregon, Marisa had always been drawn to the beauty and challenges of the outdoors. From horse back riding, fishing, and hunting, Marisa had a love for nature. It was spending time in the outdoors with her dad that inspired her to enjoy the challenges of hunting. However, after years of rifle hunting with her father Marisa wanted a more up close encounter with the animals that she hunted and a bigger challenging. She decided to put away the rifle and start bow hunting. It was that first day out with the bulls bugling and the cows chirping that she knew that this was her new passion. Determined to master the art of elk calling, she immersed herself in the study of elk behavior, vocalizations, and perfected her own unique techniques.
Through countless hours of practice and unwavering dedication, Marisa honed her skills. She ventured into the wild, facing harsh conditions and breathtaking encounters with these powerful animals. Her ability to lure bull elk with her calls amazed her friends and family. Her husband Damian Pagano was also a skilled elk caller and together they made a great hunting team. It was in 2017 when Damian's friends encouraged him to take his elk calling skill to the stage at the World Champion Elk calling contest in Utah. Damian Pagano went and compete in the men's division and won! After his win, Marisa decided that since Damian and her were such a great team in the field maybe is she also competed and won then they would be a great team in the world of elk calling competitions,too. The next two year 2018 and 2019 Marisa competed in the Women's division and won the world elk calling title for her division. This made Damian and Marisa Pagano the first husband and wife to ever compete and both win world champion titles in the history of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation world champion elk calling event. This was the beginnging of their journy to create a name for themselves in the hunting world. However, this journey was not what anyone would have foreseen and life obstacles would try and tear apart everything that Damian and Marisa had worked for.
Elk calling is an intricate dance of sound, one that requires not only the right technique but also an intimate understanding of elk behavior and communication. To the untrained ear, the calls may seem like random noises, but to an elk caller, each sound conveys a specific message. The primary calls used in elk calling include bugles, cow calls, and calf calls, each serving different purposes within the elk's social structure. For instance, a bull’s bugle is often a challenge to other bulls during the mating season, while a cow call can signal an invitation or reassurance to a calf.
Achieving mastery in elk calling involves a combination of vocal skill and precise control. Callers must learn to manipulate their breathing, pitch, and tone to replicate the authentic sounds made by elk. This requires not only physical training but also a deep psychological connection to the animals. Understanding the nuances of elk communication can take years of observation and practice, leading some to describe elk calling as an art form where the artist must become one with their subject. The best callers possess an innate ability to mimic these majestic creatures flawlessly, creating an illusion that can fool even the most discerning elk.
Moreover, the environment plays a significant role in elk calling. Factors such as wind direction, terrain, and time of day can dramatically affect the effectiveness of a call. A skilled elk caller learns to adapt their techniques to the surroundings, ensuring that their calls resonate through the landscape and reach potential elk effectively. Mastery of this art involves a keen awareness of nature and the ability to read the behavior of elk in real-time, making elk calling a true test of skill, patience, and understanding.
Marisa Pagano-Noteboom's journey into the competitive world of elk calling began with a rigorous training regimen that combined both physical and mental preparation. Initially, she spent countless hours studying elk behavior and vocalizations, immersing herself in the intricacies of their communication. This foundational knowledge became the bedrock of her calling technique. Marisa would often record elk calls, analyzing them meticulously to understand nuances that would later inform her own practice. Her dedication was evident as she transformed her living room into a makeshift training space, filling it with the sounds of nature, allowing her to immerse herself in the elk’s world even when she couldn’t be outdoors.
In addition to her self-study, Marisa sought out mentorship from seasoned callers. These relationships proved invaluable, providing her with personalized feedback and critical insights into the competitive landscape. She attended workshops and seminars, where she could practice her skills in a supportive environment. This hands-on experience allowed her to refine her technique and gain confidence in her abilities. Marisa also engaged in physical training, focusing on breath control and vocal strength; she recognized that elk calling required not just skill but also stamina and endurance, especially during long competitions.
As competition dates approached, Marisa's preparation intensified. She would spend hours in the field, practicing her calls while surrounded by the sounds of nature. This not only honed her skills but also allowed her to build a mental repertoire of responses to the natural environment. With each outing, she gained more confidence and developed an instinctive understanding of how to adapt her calls to different situations. This extensive preparation laid the groundwork for her future success, enabling her to approach competitions with a sense of assurance and readiness that would soon distinguish her in the elk calling community.
The competitive elk calling scene is a vibrant and growing community, with events held across North America that draw participants and spectators alike. These competitions range from local contests to prestigious national championships, each providing a platform for callers to showcase their skills. Participants are typically grouped based on experience levels, allowing amateurs and seasoned veterans to compete on a level playing field. Events often include multiple categories, such as bugling, cow calling, and even freestyle performances, where callers can demonstrate their creativity and unique styles.
Judging criteria in elk calling competitions are rigorous and multifaceted. Judges evaluate participants based on accuracy, sound quality, and the ability to evoke an emotional response from both the elk and the audience. The authenticity of the calls is paramount; judges listen for the subtleties that differentiate a master caller from a novice. Additionally, the performance's presentation influences scores, with factors such as confidence, enthusiasm, and stage presence contributing to a caller's overall impression. This blend of technical skill and performance art elevates elk calling to a captivating spectacle.
Competitors often face a nerve-wracking atmosphere during events, as the stakes are high, and the competition can be fierce. Callers must not only perform flawlessly but also adapt their calls to the feedback they receive from the judges and the audience. This dynamic environment fosters camaraderie among participants, who share tips and techniques while cheering each other on. The competitive elk calling scene serves as a testament to the dedication, passion, and artistry of those who participate, with each event celebrating the rich tradition of elk calling and its deep-rooted significance in the hunting community.
Marisa's ascent to the title of world champion elk caller was anything but straightforward. It was a path marked by intense dedication, countless hours of practice, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her first competition was a humbling experience, filled with nerves and uncertainty. However, rather than deter her, this initial foray only fueled her determination to improve. She quickly realized that success in elk calling required not just talent but an unwavering commitment to honing her craft. Each competition became a learning opportunity, allowing her to refine her techniques and build resilience in the face of challenges.
Over the years, Marisa participated in numerous competitions, gradually gaining recognition for her unique style and powerful calls. Her performances captivated audiences, earning her accolades and a loyal following within the elk calling community. As she progressed, Marisa became known for her ability to mimic not only the sounds of elk but also to evoke the emotions associated with their behaviors. She understood that elk calling was not merely about producing sounds; it was about telling a story that resonated with both human listeners and elk alike.
The turning point in Marisa's journey came when she entered a prestigious national competition, where the best callers from across the country gathered to showcase their skills. With her heart pounding, she stepped onto the stage, ready to unleash the full force of her calling abilities. In that moment, she drew upon all her training, experiences, and the connection she had fostered with elk over the years. When the judges announced her as the champion, it was a moment of triumph that validated her years of hard work and passion. Marisa's victory not only solidified her status as a world champion but also inspired countless aspiring elk callers to pursue their dreams with the same fervor.
Like any competitive endeavor, Marisa faced her fair share of challenges and setbacks on her path to becoming a world champion elk caller. One of the most significant hurdles was the intense pressure that competitions imposed. The fear of failure often loomed large, leading to moments of self-doubt that threatened to undermine her confidence. In the face of this pressure, Marisa learned the importance of mental fortitude, developing techniques to manage her anxiety and channel her nerves into focused energy. She began to view competitions not just as tests of skill but as opportunities for growth and self-expression.
In addition to psychological challenges, Marisa encountered physical obstacles that tested her resolve. The demanding nature of elk calling requires not just vocal ability but also stamina and endurance, especially during long competitions. There were times when she experienced vocal strain, forcing her to adapt her training regimen to prioritize vocal health. Marisa sought guidance from vocal coaches and implemented strategies to protect her voice while still pushing her limits. These experiences taught her resilience and adaptability, qualities that became integral to her success in elk calling.
Moreover, Marisa navigated the complexities of the competitive elk calling scene, where the landscape is ever-evolving. Trends and techniques change, and new entrants bring fresh styles that can shift the dynamics of competitions. Staying relevant and innovative became crucial, pushing Marisa to continually evolve her skills and adapt her performances. Through perseverance and a willingness to embrace change, she not only overcame these challenges but also emerged as a trailblazer in the elk calling community, inspiring others to confront their obstacles with courage and determination.
Marisa Pagano-Noteboom's success as a world champion elk caller has had a profound impact on the elk calling community, igniting passion and enthusiasm among both seasoned callers and newcomers. Her achievements have brought visibility to the art of elk calling, inspiring a new generation to explore this unique form of expression. Marisa’s story serves as a reminder that dedication and perseverance can lead to extraordinary accomplishments, motivating aspiring callers to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
In addition to inspiring individuals, Marisa has become an advocate for the preservation of elk calling traditions. She actively participates in workshops and mentorship programs, sharing her knowledge and skills with others. By fostering a sense of community, Marisa has helped create a supportive environment where callers can learn from one another, exchange ideas, and celebrate their shared passion for elk calling. This collaborative spirit has strengthened the bonds within the elk calling community, promoting a culture of mutual respect and encouragement.
Moreover, Marisa's visibility has drawn attention to the importance of conservation and ethical hunting practices. As a champion, she uses her platform to advocate for the responsible use of natural resources and the preservation of elk habitats. By emphasizing the need for sustainability, Marisa encourages fellow callers and hunters to engage in practices that protect the very animals and environments that inspire their craft. Her influence extends beyond competitions, leaving a lasting legacy that champions not just the art of elk calling but also the stewardship of nature that underpins it.
For those looking to follow in Marisa’s footsteps, she offers invaluable advice drawn from her own journey. First and foremost, she emphasizes the importance of practice. Like any skill, elk calling requires dedication and repetition. Marisa encourages aspiring callers to spend time in the field, experimenting with different calls and techniques. She suggests recording your practice sessions to analyze your performance and identify areas for improvement. This self-reflection is crucial for growth, allowing callers to refine their abilities and develop their unique style.
Marisa also highlights the value of learning from others. Seeking mentorship from experienced callers can provide insights that are difficult to gain through solo practice. She advises attending workshops and competitions, not just as a competitor but as an observer, to soak in the diverse styles and approaches of other callers. This exposure can spark creativity and inspire new techniques, enriching one’s calling repertoire. Additionally, Marisa advocates for building a network within the elk calling community, where friendships and collaborations can flourish.
Lastly, Marisa stresses the significance of connecting with nature. Understanding the behaviors and habitats of elk can greatly enhance one’s calling abilities. She encourages aspiring callers to spend time outdoors, observing elk in their natural environment and learning to read their body language and vocalizations. This connection not only deepens one’s appreciation for the art of elk calling but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards conservation and ethical hunting practices. By embracing these principles, aspiring elk callers can embark on their journey with confidence and purpose.
As Marisa looks toward the future of her elk calling career, her passion for the sport remains unwavering. She continues to seek opportunities to compete, challenge herself, and elevate her skills. Marisa understands that the elk calling landscape is always evolving, and she is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation within the community. With each competition, she aims to push the boundaries of her abilities, exploring new techniques and refining her craft while inspiring others along the way.
In addition to her competitive pursuits, Marisa plans to expand her role as an educator and advocate for elk calling. She envisions creating workshops and online resources that make elk calling more accessible to a broader audience. By sharing her knowledge and experiences, Marisa hopes to empower aspiring callers to develop their skills confidently, fostering a new generation of passionate elk enthusiasts. Her dedication to mentorship reflects her belief in the importance of community and collaboration within the sport.
Marisa also remains committed to conservation efforts, understanding the critical role that elk and their habitats play in the ecosystem. As she continues her journey, she aims to raise awareness about responsible hunting practices and the importance of protecting wildlife. Through her advocacy, she hopes to inspire a sense of stewardship among fellow hunters and callers, ensuring that the legacy of elk calling endures for generations to come. With her unwavering spirit and dedication, Marisa is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of elk calling, celebrating the beauty of this art form while embracing the future.
Marisa Pagano-Noteboom's journey as a world champion elk caller is a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and artistry in the realm of nature. Her accomplishments not only showcase her exceptional talent but also illuminate the rich culture and tradition of elk calling. Marisa's story serves as inspiration to countless individuals, reminding us that with hard work and determination, we can achieve our dreams and make a meaningful impact in our communities.
As we celebrate Marisa's achievements, we also recognize the beauty of elk calling as an art form that transcends mere vocalization. It is a profound connection between humans and nature, a form of storytelling that honors the majestic elk and their habitat. The nuances of elk communication, the thrill of competition, and the camaraderie within the community all contribute to the vibrant tapestry of elk calling. Marisa’s journey exemplifies the spirit of this art, encouraging others to embrace their passions and explore the wonders of the natural world.
In this celebration, we look forward to the future of elk calling, where the legacy of passionate individuals like Marisa will continue to inspire new generations. As they learn, grow, and unleash their own roars into the world, the art of elk calling will thrive, echoing through the forests and mountains for years to come. The beauty of this craft lies not just in the sounds produced but in the connections forged, the stories shared, and the deep-rooted respect for nature that it fosters. With every call, we honor the remarkable journey of elk calling and the extraordinary individuals like Marisa who bring it to life.