PLAN YOUR HUNTPlanning a western hunting trip can be overwhelming, so here is some info to help you prepare. Wyoming is on the draw basis so Preference Points are very important when it comes to drawing licenses. Even if you don't plan to come for several years you'll want to start accumulating points for each species that you plan to hunt in the future. One point per species can be purchased each year.
Learn More: Preference Points and Licenses Scroll down for detailed hunting information and suggested gear list or click the links for species hunt pages. Wyoming Antelope Hunting Wyoming Mule Deer Hunting Wyoming Elk Hunting Wyoming Black Bear Hunting Iowa Whitetail Deer Hunting |
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Bookings and Deposits
Bookings come on a first come first serve basis and should be reserved in advance. To book your hunt you will need to send 1/3 of the hunt cost to secure your slot. After receiving your license from the Wyoming Game and Fish we require another 1/3 deposit. Personal checks are fine for your first two deposits but guaranteed funds (cash, money order, cashiers check) are required for your balance upon arrival. If you are unsuccessful in the draw you will receive a full refund or the deposit can be rolled over to another hunt or for the next year. Once licenses have been drawn there will be NO refunds unless we are able to fill your slot. Nor will there be any refunds for no-shows, late arrivals, early departures or late cancellations.
Hunting Regulations
All WY and CO Game and Fish laws will be strictly adhered to. NO EXCEPTIONS. The license issued to you cannot be transferred to another hunter. Your hunt will end immediately if this is done. Take a picture ID with you in the field to show Game Wardens. If you are required to have a hunter safety card it must be carried in the field also. Colorado requires all hunters born after January 1, 1949 to have a valid hunter safety card. Likewise, Wyoming requires hunters to have hunter safety if born after January 1, 1966.
Hunter Orange laws exist in WY, so one article of orange must be worn during the hunt. A hat or vest will suffice and camo orange is acceptable. Conservation stamps are required for WY hunters. They can be purchased online with your license (recommended) or will be available in camp at a cost of $12.50. Archers will be required to buy a $72 archery license in addition. Orange is not required during archery or turkey season.
Hunter Orange laws exist in WY, so one article of orange must be worn during the hunt. A hat or vest will suffice and camo orange is acceptable. Conservation stamps are required for WY hunters. They can be purchased online with your license (recommended) or will be available in camp at a cost of $12.50. Archers will be required to buy a $72 archery license in addition. Orange is not required during archery or turkey season.
Safety
Safety will be first and foremost in everyone’s mind, especially “Gun Safety.” Firearms are required to be carried UNLOADED at all times. The guide will instruct you when to fill your magazine or clip. While hunting, never chamber a round until instructed by your guide. Always open your bolt to be sure no rounds were chambered before putting your firearm in the guide’s vehicle. While back in camp all firearms are to remain empty. Muzzle control shall be demanded at all times. If the guide tells you to watch your muzzle, immediately point it in a safe direction. We have never experienced an accident and will continue to record with your cooperation.
Alcohol in camp is allowed. Drink responsibly. No alcohol is to be consumed prior to the day hunt or during the hunt. Once you are done for the day and your firearm is put up, consuming alcoholic beverages is fine. Alcohol must be purchased prior to arrival at camp.
Alcohol in camp is allowed. Drink responsibly. No alcohol is to be consumed prior to the day hunt or during the hunt. Once you are done for the day and your firearm is put up, consuming alcoholic beverages is fine. Alcohol must be purchased prior to arrival at camp.
Firearms
It is recommended to practice shooting at least 50 rounds of ammo at the range. Shots can be up to 350+ yards with 200 yards as the average. Good calibers for big game include but not limited to .243 (antelope), .270, .30-06, .308, 7mm, 300. Bring a scoped rifle you know and feel comfortable with. Bipods or shooting sticks are recommended. Bring at least two boxes of shells.
Archers
A 40lb min. draw weight is required for deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, mt. goat, mt. lion, and black bear while a 50lb min is required for elk and moose. Crossbows are allowed and must have a min. draw weight of 90lbs. Shots are variable with over 70% of those taken at 30 yards or less. However, proficiency to 40yds is desirable.
Physical Conditioning
Physical conditioning can not be overemphasized. This area of preparation can only benefit you. Altitude is 5000 to 10000 ft. The terrain can be rugged. Walk, ride a bike, run, climb stairs, anything aerobic that you do will help.
Tipping
Tipping is a very personal subject. This section is included so you can plan all potential expenses. Guides and cooks work very hard and count on tips as part of their compensation. An average tip is 10%-15% of the hunt cost. Give all tips directly to the guide. Cooks customarily receive $30-$50 from each hunter.
Meat Processing and Taxidermy
This will vary from town to town, but in general one can expect to get the basic cut (wrapped and frozen) for about $120-130 on antelope, $160-175 on deer and approximately $250-300 on elk. Specialty items like summer sausage, salami, or jerky are also available at a per lb price. Shipping meat is expensive and is your responsibility. It is best to be prepared to take it with you in coolers or insulated boxes.
We have quality taxidermists that we can recommend if you choose not to take your trophy along with you. Your heads/horns will be then securely shipped to you directly.
We have quality taxidermists that we can recommend if you choose not to take your trophy along with you. Your heads/horns will be then securely shipped to you directly.
