Im from Missouri as well. Ive been diy backpack hunting colorado elk for 7-8 years now. First few times out I decided i was gonna get into great shape and work my ass off. Since then i have realized most of shots have come from setting. Waterholes, paths, and treestand. Where i hunt it is so brushy you cant move fast enough to get infront of one and too brushy to sneak up on one. If there is one that is vocal usually there is bound to be another hunter making a move on him as well. Sitting isnt tge answer everywhere but in my case ( lots of brush and preasure) it works. Since i started being more patient ive shot 4 elk and missed another. Trying to stalk im zero for who knows how many. Just my experience. Im sure others are different, especially on private ground.