I wasn't trying to say that it's a given that you are going to get an elk if you go out with rifle. So sorry if I wasn't clear on that. I was just saying with the bow if you see one a couple hundred yards away you would have a tougher time getting at him in most cases.
I have read the NAHC book on elk hunting. That is what really sparked my interest, but I still have a very long way to go before I would feel comfortable going out and having the confidence in knowing what I am doing up there. Me and my girlfriend are both getting a membership to a gym tomorrow and I plan on going on a lot of hiking/camping trips with her this year. I am hoping to have the funds by next fall, if not the fall after. I also was had the understanding that the bow season is usually open around the peak of the rut for Elk? I could be mistaken, but I was thinking maybe that would better the chances a little bit.
Thanks for all the help, and does anybody have recomendations on what some good books are?