Any elk is a trophy when you haven't hunted for them. They are the top end game from what I can say. Cow or bull they taste great and are an awesome animal to hunt. Hearing that bull screaming at you is a rush. So far I have done 5 DIY rifle hunts with 4 elk killed, 2 cows and 2 bulls. This year I have drawn a muley tag and will probably get an OTC bull tag too. I am trying to get together a DIY pack in bow hunt next year.