First off you have to learn how to use the calls to sound like an elk. Then you have to learn what the calls mean to the elk. Elkcrazy8 is correct, and there is no one better to learn from than elknut1 and his instructional videos, they are top notch! If you can find a partner to tag team one hunter, one shooter that is the best scenerio. My favorite way of hunting/calling elk is first know the general area where the elk are. Then get up early between 4:30 and 6:30 use a locator call to find out where the elk are. Then close the gap, working with the wind to where you are around 100 yards or under. If it is still dark perfect, just wait for shooting light and tag team with a partner to bring them in. In the rut you can do this any time of day, but I like the morning the best. But I hunt hard all day long, and the evening can be just as good as morning. Just my 2cents thanks. Jason