One thing I'd add - dont play the tag waiting game. As has been pointed out, the best teacher is the elk itself. You'll need to make the 4000 mistakes to figure that critter out. My advice is to get started on the learning curve now. Plan on a cow hunt. Kill a couple elk to learn where they live, how they react, and mostly how friggin' big they are when laying dead on the ground. You'll need to have a plan on getting them out, especially in September.
I'd also say, make sure to not set lofty goals and mostly enjoy the experience. Not bringing home an elk still means you got to spend a week or more in some of the most beautiful country God created. I call it armed hiking at times.
As to shortening the learning curve, check out Randy Newberg series on elk periods, Mark Livesay video series on elk scouting, and/or Corey Jacobson university of elk.
Good luck.
