To hunt a free-ranging bull bison in the West is a true privilege, one that was gifted to modern sportsmen by forward thinking hunter/conservationists of the past. The U.S. currently supports approximately 17 bison herds on its public lands (not all herds are huntable). One herd quickly stands out from a hunter’s perspective, the Greater Yellowstone Herd. The Greater Yellowstone ecosystem is the only area bison have roamed continually since prehistoric times with little to no genetic disturbance. Currently the Yellowstone Herd numbers over 4,500, making it the single largest huntable population.
Bull Bison Facts
Height: Up to six feet tall.
Weight: 1500-2000 LBS.
Top Speed: 35 MPH
Life Expectancy: Bison are known to live up to 20 years in controlled environments.
Interesting Fact: Bull bison are the largest land mammal in the North America.
The Hunt
As hunters, we inherently thirst for adventure and you can be assured a Wyoming bison hunt will quench such a thirst. Hunts here are conducted from atop trusty, sure footed, mountain horses. These animals allow one to explore the vast fringes surrounding Yellowstone Park in search of bison bulls which are often found in solitude or small bachelor groups. These horses are also a blessing once a bull is down as they are able to carry out the valuable meat, head and cape in a single trip. While afield you can expect to also spot elk, mule deer, moose and grizzly bears amongst a back drop of beautiful mountains that offer a “million dollar view” from every angle. The overall hunting experience and memories made on such a trip often over shadow the harvest itself which is a rare find without traveling to faraway lands.
2020 Season Recap
Harvest success data is not yet available through the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. The previous three seasons have seen overall success drop to around 60%. However, WTA TAGS clients, who booked with our preferred outfitter, were 100% successful in taking mature bulls. Outfitter selection for this hunt is pivotal to ensure such a desirable tag is not squandered. WTA TAGS has worked with this particular outfitter for over a decade and can assure you that there is no one you would rather utilize for your once-in-a-lifetime tag.
Draw Trends
The Wyoming bison draw, statistically and historically, offers non-residents the best odds of drawing a tag. In 2019, non-resident draw odds were approximately 1 in 20 for the bull tag. The 2020 draw odds improved to 1 in 12. It appears nonresidents will be guaranteed 25 tags for the 2021 draw. This is a critical fact because Wyoming does not offer a points system for bison. It is 100% random each year. In comparison, draw odds for Utah and Arizona bull bison tags will often exceed 1 in 1,000 or more. These improved draw odds are largely due to the fact Wyoming requires applicants to front the $4,402 tag fee which greatly restricts application numbers. WTA TAGS will float the $4,402 tag fee on your behalf as well as ensure your application is submitted correctly and prior to the deadline of March 31st 2021.
Do not wait another year to cross bison off your “bucket list”. WTA TAGS is ready to assist you with the application process associated with winning these coveted tags and organizing a hunt once successfully drawn. If you would like to apply, or have additional questions, please contact a WTA TAGS Consultant by phone 1-800-755-TAGS(8247)
