RE: Thinking about hunting elk for first time...
I wouldn't go! No way, its a horrible thing to do. Hunting elk is highly addictive. As Nancy Regan said: "Just say no!" If you try it once you'll be a junky. Nothing can cure your "jones'" but a fix of bugling in the aspens...Some Montana gold. Take it from a hardcore junky.Those elk seep into your soul.[8D]
I would strongly consider a different area or better guides.