soooo close...

[Bigbuckoholic]

Started hiking at 4 this morning, got to my spot just as it was getting light. Heard a crash up in the clearcut ahead. Gave my cow call a whirl and the bull starts barking at me.. this went on for about 15 minutes. First time I've ever talked with an elk.. it was amazing. Finally crept up towards the noise and there stood a cow and a spike. 150 yards. They started taking off so I let out a bugle trying anything to get them to come back. But to my surprise three other bulls down below started bugling back!! Now laying here waiting for the night hunt on the top of my mountain. No meat yet but an unforgetable day. 

[sled]

  I belive if they are barking at you it is a bad sign.  I have only had them do that when alarmed or spooked.