I go steep and deep in pressured areas with the wind in my face and always carry a cow call during rifle season to stop a bull that is moving away. I have stopped and shot several bulls this way after I spotted them. I don't use the call blindly, especially with all the cow tags being given out on the west side anymore, but I do use them and they do work!
I've caught several bulls bedded in a drainage within earshot of running water in thick vine maple. I've had them hang up like deer and explode out in front of me at the last second. My Safari sling has given me the opportunity to get a few of these.
Be patient and always expect an elk to be there because if you don't, they will be and they will be gone!
