I’ve been Elk hunting 5 times and killed 3 bulls. There is no substitute for cardio. My 1st trip I was 235 right out of college and jacked-7000 ft in NM I thought I was gonna die. Last trip last year to wyoming at 9500 I was 190 super lean and felt good. I’m a flat lander from ms so will take more than 24 to get your wind. For me I don’t call much esp on public cause everyone else is and have seen them shut down at times. While I’ll bugle to locate, as long as he is talking I sneak in. Elk are noisy as they move so if you on a stalk don’t let your noise bother you just keep going. Elk cover a lot of ground at a reg walking pace so try to stay or get in front of them. Behind them is last place you want to be. I also like to look for the bull that’s lonely that bugles a lot, while he is not the herd bull, he is a lot easier to kill esp for your 1st hunt. If I lived closer I would probably give up deer hunting for elk. Amazing experience, beautiful country and the trip itself is an adventure!