I too Know how great it is to be in Elk Country whether you score or not. As a novice Elk hunter I'm just learning myself and every encounter is a new lesson. I've only gotten to hunt two years--last year w/a rifle and this year w/bow for about 18 days (at different times) and I have yet to draw down, although I was so close to about a 400 +/- bull, I could here him breathing and see the white tips of his antlers(but too brushy for a shot). I do love it though. It feels just a like another level to which you are challenged in the outdoor world. I can't wait to go back. Unfortunately, now I will be applying as a non res as we have moved back across the country from MT to WV. But my wife (also a new development)assures me of a lifetime pass to return to the great wilderness of the west as often as possible ($$). Is there anything better?

I did get to help drag three of em out though (oh joy), including doing most of the work for ELKINMTCWB