With a goodly number of Elk on the ground over the years, I have to say it is the Best of the cervids to eat. Cow or bull is not too important, except in the case of a big dominant herd bull right at the end of the rut. He's not going to be quite as good to eat. Elk tend to be wary animals, and you must watch out for the alert cow who will be watching for danger and will blow the "Whistle" on you if she gets any hint there is danger. The Hoochie Mama is a good call and fairly easy to master. Field dressing? Not a problem if you have some experience, but can be daunting the first time you have a big one laying out flat. If it is early and the weather is warm, you need to watch that you don't sour any of that delicious meat. AS for bleeding, if your elk is shot through the lungs, bleeding will accomplish little, since it will bleed out into the pleural cavity. If you shoot it elsewhere (neck or head [NOT recommended]), you will have better meat if you bleed it out. Other than those thoughts, Hunt hard, shoot straight and enjoy!! Regards, Eagleye.
