Dog 1, it just depends on the area and which state its in. In Idaho we have a 30 day general season over the counter elk tag good for either a cow or any bull depending on the area. Also most areas have a general rifle or blackpowder hunt for cows later in the seaon if you don't harvest your elk with a bow. I hunt a average of 2 &1/2 weeks during September for elk. Most years I also end up trailing alongwith a friend or family member on there rifle or blackpowderhunt later on. So I would say I spend at least 3 solid weeks a year elk hunting if not a little more. Other states are set up different but most do offer a general season over the counter elk tag that is good for a month during september. You might not be able to shoot any elk, (again depending on the certian state and area) but at least you could still elk hunt for a cow or spike or maybe a 4 point bull or bigger. Hope this helps.