Free: Contests & Raffles.
I know we all enjoy the many elk calls that are available, but after recent observations in the field I think a few of us need to realize when and how to use them. We observed three different hunters in our area this year that bugled while standing out in a wide open meadow during the day. Or cow called and bugled after shooting light was long gone or from the road directly next to a hunting camp... As a result the elk got a good education and we seldom if ever heard a bull bugle during the day. Which was great for those of us that drew a bull tag this year. Do us all a favor and get a little wiser this off season or leave the calls at home next year.
but I like the amusing tales of guys calling in a rutted up elk hunter
I think you mean, "Do us all a favor." Maybe it was someone that doesn't know much/anything about elk hunting. Maybe they are new hunters. Maybe they are youngsters who decided to enjoy this great sport without any mentoring. Perhaps it was a Hunt Wa member that requested info on how to hunt elk and was shot down by other members not willing to help. Possible?