Elk stalk mistake

[SleepyJones]

To jump up and bolt like that, I'd say he winded you. Even with thermals helping you I'm not surprised he ended up getting a whiff when a guy waits that close for that long. Cool experience though!

I would have drew my bow and used a diaphragm reed and made a soft cow mew. He would probably look around, not see a cow and stand up and stare for a while. Now a frontal shot would present itself or hopefully he would turn broadside. If he slowly walks away, make another soft mew or even a bark to see if you can get your window of opportunity. I would definitely like to have done something and see how it would play out for the experience and confidence for next time a similar situation presents itself.