Carpmaster,

I don't know about that one....[:-][:-][:-][:-]

In this case, the use of "best" is very likely forbidden, sorry I can't voice a direct opinion to your question. Please understand that "best" will have to vary from person to person according to whatever it is that floats their individual hunting boat, as the emergence of a single or dominant "best" big game animal could result in an elevated class of big game and that would be very, very bad. In fact, I recommend the re-class-ification of all big game to include everything right on down to cottontails and squirrels so as to afford equal opportunity to all.

Personally, I find elk hunting certainly provides an entertaining big game hunt as an annual tradition and the meat provides some great tasting and abundant eating. Having done it for a while though I would like to progress (flinch) a bit and try moose or caribou next and then see where it goes from there. Beyond that, IMHO, the great bears and then the big antelope and DG of Africa are a logical next progression (flinch) for some folks.

Personal Disclaimer! You need to understand that this is very much a minority viewpoint and may not be right for everyone. Check with your advisors to see if this kind of hunting may be right for you. Possible warning symptoms may include: low check book balances, low tolerances for guides, unwillingness to travel, fear of flying and any aversion to: risk, discomfort, or sleep deprivation. Do not engage in this type of hunting if you have any lack of heart whatsoever.

Ah, PC squeeky clean --- but what a frigging hassle!

Good Luck and Good Hunting,
EKM