early season elk hunting can be hot in the afternoon and early evening. look for water because that’s where elk will be headed. it gets dark quickly, so don’t be afraid to move. head to water, pay attention to the wind, call, move if necessary, be aware of losing light, and rely on previous experience, which is a lot of what hunting is about. if it’s your first evening elk hunt, even if you end up empty-handed, there’s always something to learn. 