You are doing all the right things Bob when it comes to hunting; asking, listening, scouting, and working your butt off. It doesn't mean you will be successful, but you are doing the right things to help you be more successful and giving yourself the best chance possible. And yeah, it is the experience we are after. I was lucky when I started hunting but now I haven't killed an elk in 7 years between bow and rifle, but I can't wait to go out and try again.