At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Cell phone service is spotty throughout the area
- Rattlesnakes can be found in this unit
- GOHUNT Maps are recommended to help navigate public and private lands
species | general Size | trophy potential |
---|---|---|
Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
Area 129 in Wyoming presents significant challenges for hunters seeking a cow elk hunt due to limited public access and considerable private land ownership, particularly near the Powder River and Montana border. While outfitters dominate land access, making DIY hunts tough without paying for outfitter services, public land does exist but may not coincide with prime elk locations. The terrain is characterized by rolling badlands, and hunters have noted discrepancies in access information, suggesting that it's crucial to verify details through multiple sources. For those considering this unit, engaging an outfitter or obtaining private land access would potentially increase chances of success.
species | general Size | trophy potential |
---|---|---|
Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
This massive unit is found in northeast Wyoming and lies along the Montana state line. A small distribution of elk is found here along with an even smaller distribution of public lands. The best hunting success is found on private lands but public land hunters who are willing to put in the work can find success.
This massive unit features a low distribution of public lands and very scattered and small populations of elk.
A unit of moderate terrain with elk located mostly in the sparsely timbered hills or Powder River Breaks. This is a large unit with plenty of country to hunt for elk. It is more gently contoured throughout the unit, changing to steep and more rugged in the hills and breaks.
There is good public access in this unit, with a lot of well-maintained roads, a network of BLM roads and smaller two tracks. However, most of the ideal elk habitat will be found around the many large private ranches. If hunters are not traveling through maintained roads, ATVs and four-wheel drive are recommended.
There are a lot of different types of vegetation here. Some spots have grassy and desert-like open prairie with big basins, creek bottoms and rolling, timbered hills that can make it easier to put on a stalk. There is also a lot of high desert country here, with dry with scattered ponderosa pine throughout the hills and breaks. Sagebrush, mountain shrubs and grassland make up most of the habitat.
Sheridan, Buffalo and Gillette are the nearest towns of any size and have several options for lodging. Grocery stores, gas stations, sporting goods and other amenities are available as well. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can also camp in remote locations.
Roughly 7753 square miles
19% public land
Elevations from 3,500-5,200 feet