Smokepole, don't have too much experience pre-rut. I did an opening weekend of bow one year and we tried a few cow calls and bugles without any success. Just let it be after that. I like to be quiet in the woods, maybe that's my downfall...
I have a good friend who bowhunts every year and he does pretty well calling right before the rut. Different technique and different calls but he does pretty well. Says lots of times bulls will come in silently.
Most of the time I'm like you, better off with the elk not knowing I'm there. But I always carry some calls, and use them when it's opportune or when I have to.
