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Wyoming Hunts You Need to Know About – Deer, Elk & Antelope

Erik Schell

| September 11, 2019

Erik Schell
September 11, 2019

Without question, the Consultants at WTA, field as many calls inquiring about Wyoming hunting opportunities than any other state in the West. This can be attributed to the diverse hunting possibilities that exist across the state.

Wyoming truly offers a hunt that falls under every sportsmen’s “bucket list” of must do adventures. If the following trips are not on your “bucket list” I highly suggest penciling them in:

1. Eastern Wyoming Mule Deer/ Pronghorn Antelope Combination Hunt

The high prairies of eastern Wyoming are home to enormous private ranches that contain plentiful numbers of mule deer and antelope. Generally speaking northeastern, Wyoming contains higher deer and antelope populations than anywhere in the country. Most hunters leave completely amazed at the overall deer and antelope numbers found in such open country.

Moving south you begin to get into larger mule deer bucks with certain ranches producing trophy size deer on an extremely consistent basis and more than ample overall antelope numbers. These hunts average almost 100% success making them a great option for every sportsmen from the first time hunter to expert looking to add a great set of mounts to the collection.

Northeastern Combo Hunt
Southeastern Combo Hunt

2. Wyoming Must Do Elk Hunts

No hunt embodies the West quite like climbing aboard a trusty horse and heading into some of the wildest country left in the lower 48. Occasionally giant bulls are harvested on these hunts but the norm falls under nice 5X5 & 6X6 bulls. More importantly the stories made and experiences lived on these wilderness hunts lie where the true trophy is.

Hunters seeking trophy bulls have a plethora of options, but few exceed what is offered in Wyoming’s famed Area 7. Within Area 7 you will find much of the premier habitat is under private ownership. WTA has established relationships with the top outfitters hunting the most desirable ranches available. Here the elk are managed and allowed to develop to their full genetic potential. Trophies will typically fall in the 310-330 range with bulls over 370 being harvested every year. Currently Area 7 is taking nine preference points to draw, but the opportunity to draw in the “random” is available.

3. Trophy Antelope

Wyoming is home to the largest population of antelope and due to improved range conditions we are set to experience the “glory days” of Wyoming antelope hunting over the next few years. Wyoming not only leads the U.S. in overall population, but it also leads in overall Boone & Crockett Record Book entries. The southwestern and central portions of Wyoming lead the state in trophy production with certain units within this area being drawable with as few as three preference points.

The one common denominator to all of these hunts- You must have preference points to draw a tag! Understanding the Wyoming licensing process or leaning on a service such as WTA TAGS is pivotal when planning these hunts.

Tags in Wyoming are issued through a fairly predictable, preference point, draw style system that contains a random element. This meets the best of both worlds as those who need to plan hunts can do so and those looking to “get lucky” always have a chance. Tags for most hunts are split with 75% of the tags being awarded to applicants with the most preference points and the remaining 25% going randomly to all other applicants regardless of preference point status. Each and every year WTA has countless clients harvest once-in-a-lifetime type of trophies utilizing the random draw but this is no fluke. To maximize random draw odds, applicants need to be up to date on unit trends, historical draw data and any/all changes in tag quotas which can be extremely time consumptive.

Wyoming does allow hunters to purchase preference points for all species each year during the “Point Only” period which takes place from July 1st– October 31st. For everyone who is just getting started applying in Wyoming and those who did not apply into the draw in the spring must take advantage of this opportunity as the deadline is quickly approaching. Even if you have no intention of hunting Wyoming in the next five years do yourself a favor and begin building points!

If you would like to begin purchasing preference points in Wyoming, have questions regarding the Wyoming draw system, or would like to discuss one of WTA’s great Wyoming hunts please shoot us a email at tags@trophyadventures.com or feel free to give us a call- 800-755-TAGS (8247).

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Gould’s Turkey Hunting in Mexico’s Sierra Madres with Muy Grande Outfitters

Few places compare to Muy Grande’s ranch in Mexico’s Sierra Madres for chasing Gould’s turkey, the biggest of all wild turkeys, marked by the striking white tips on its tail fan. As a WTA consultant, I’ve seen their guides deliver consistently, making it a top destination for hunters working toward the World Turkey Slam. Add in rugged country and a proven outfitter, and it becomes an experience every turkey hunter should have.

Turkey season runs from early April through early May. You’ll typically fly into Phoenix, then catch a morning hop to Hermosillo, Mexico, arriving around 11:30 a.m. After customs, Sergio or Pedro will greet you with a cold drink and a van stocked with sandwiches for the scenic ride ahead. From Hermosillo’s 700 feet, you’ll climb through 5 hours of winding Sierra Madre roads to the ranch at 3,000 feet. The journey is half the fun—curves, vistas, and glimpses of the country you’ll be hunting. By about 7 p.m., you’ll be unpacking in your room. Open your window to the cool mountain air and let it lull you into one of the best nights of sleep you’ll ever experience.

The food is reason enough to make the trip. Muy Grande’s French chef has 20 years of experience with serving up everything from ribs to authentic Mexican dishes, hearty breakfasts, and appetizers. You’ll need the delicious calories for the long days in the open country chasing Toms. Mornings start early and you may spend up to two hours on ranch roads before reaching your spot. Dry mountains, steep valleys, and big country define the day. Want to call birds from a pop-up blind? They’ve got you covered. Prefer run-and-gun? This is prime terrain for it. With one-on-one guides, the hunt is tailored to your style.

The Gould’s turkey is the largest subspecies in North America, and in the field, they stand out as they strut down dusty trails, flashing their tall frames and bright white fan tips. They’re plentiful here. On my last trip, the group of five tagged six birds by the end of day one—some from blinds, others by stalking ridges. Gobbles echo through the canyons all morning, and the guides know every fold of the landscape and the flocks that roam it. The hunt package includes in-field transport, trophy care, lodging, meals, guide service, and a license waiting for you at camp—everything dialed in so you can focus solely on finding your big ol’ Tom.

Getting your bird back home is simple. The outfitter freezes it—whole or just the fan—and handles the paperwork. Flying back through Phoenix is smooth—customs deals with turkeys regularly. Just bring the address of a USDA-certified taxidermist and a sturdy suitcase big enough for your trophy.

The gear list for this trip is straightforward: good hiking boots, lightweight shirts, face mask, hat, gloves, and a jacket for the cool mornings. Days can hit 90° F in April, but the temp drops quickly at night, so pack for variety. After tagging out, you’ll head back to Hermosillo for a final night at the Fiesta Americana, a top-notch hotel, before flying home—though early successes can open the door to earlier flights.

Muy Grande is a place of raw beauty, from stone-fenced corrals to mountain views stretching for miles. Hermosillo itself might surprise you—not a rough frontier town, but a safe, vibrant city where families are out and about. If you’re looking for an authentic Gould’s turkey adventure in a spectacular setting with unmatched hospitality, this hunt should be on your wish list. Book through WTA and come chase the turkey that towers above the rest.

Learn about this Hunt Watch Hunt Video

Building a Quail Hunter’s Paradise: Habitat Improvements and Day Hunts at Stonewall Plantation Outfitters

Expanding into quail hunting was a natural fit to complement Salt River Outfitters’ already thriving deer hunting operation. With a clear vision and a commitment to quality, we set out to create a quail program that could stand among the best in the region. Drawing on the expertise of skilled dog handlers, seasoned habitat specialists, and our experienced guides and habitat managers, we’ve built something special.

Over the last few years, we’ve been steadily transforming Stonewall Plantation’s land from cattle pasture to high-quality bobwhite quail habitat. We aimed to create hunts that feel as close to wild as possible, and unlike confined shooting preserves, our hunting grounds span diverse terrain including ridges, hollows, and rolling hills. That transformation hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it. A huge part of that effort has focused on the removal of invasive fescue which had taken over much of the pasture. Fescue chokes out native grasses and eliminates the natural cover and food sources that the quail depend on. Through persistent spraying and management, we’ve brought back the native species and laid the groundwork for wildlife to thrive.

In addition to native grasses, we’ve planted food plots throughout the property—carefully selected mixes of grain sorghum, millet, sunflowers, corn, and Korean lespedeza. These plots not only support healthy quail populations, but they’ve also created a boom in other wildlife. Watching our dogs lock up on a big covey of birds is a rewarding moment, and those moments are coming more frequently each year.

Our last season proved that the work is paying off. Hunters enjoyed productive days in the field, with strong bird numbers and multiple coveys flushed during most outings. Many visitors left with full game bags, big smiles, and stories they’ll tell for years. Based on the success of a limited trial last year, we’re also excited to expand access with guided day hunts this upcoming season. In October and December, we’ll offer morning and afternoon hunts for up to three hunters at a time. Each hunter will have the opportunity to harvest up to 30 birds, with lunch included in the hunt package. It’s a new way to experience Salt River, whether you’re a first-time guest or a returning visitor.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard: “My dad and I hunted quail when I was younger, but with quail numbers down, we haven’t hunted them in years.” Last season, a gentleman booked a hunt for his father, his son, and himself—three generations in the field. The stories they shared around the dinner table that night were moving and unforgettable. The joy in their eyes and the bond they rekindled through the hunt reminded me why we do this.

Being part of such an experience—where a grandfather and father can introduce a young man to something they’ve cherished for decades—is priceless. Our goal at Stonewall Plantation Outfitters is to continue creating new memories for many seasons to come.

The habitat is stronger. The lodge is more comfortable. The birds are flying better. And our program now has a proven track record of delivering exceptional hunts. Whether you’re coming for a full three-day experience or joining us for a day hunt, we can’t wait to share this quail hunting heaven with you.

Single Day Hunt Muli-Day Hunt with Lodging Watch…

Chasing the Wild Turkey – 35 Years to a World Slam

The Grand Slam of Wild Turkey is the successful harvest of an Eastern, Rio Grande, Merriam’s, and Osceola. Then there’s the Royal Slam, which is a Grand Slam plus the Gould. Add an Ocellated, and you have the World Slam. After 35 years of chasing turkeys, I completed my World Slam!

It started when I was 17 years old. I shot an Eastern with my Remington 870, a birthday present from my dad the year prior. I harvested this beautiful bird in the woods behind my childhood home in Orchard Park, New York, home to Quaker Boy Game Calls and founder/turkey hunting legend, Dick Kirby.

On that same birthday, my high school girlfriend’s mother bought me video on VHS tape from this fantastic homegrown company. One segment included in the video was a how-to about roosting a wild turkey. My birthday falls in October, but the New York spring turkey season wouldn’t open until May. During this agonizing six-month stretch, I watched that video at least a hundred times and practiced my owl hoot thousands of times. I drove my family up the wall, but when May finally arrived, I was ready to roll.

My mother always did a fantastic job with dinner, and my father made damn sure we were all at the kitchen table for her wonderful creations. I remember wolfing down my supper, absolutely dying to hit the woods behind the house to try roosting an elusive gobbler at sunset. When I say elusive, I mean elusive. Back then, the turkey numbers were nothing like they are today, which is a testament to hunter dollars and the great work of the National Wild Turkey Foundation (NWTF)

My dad could tell that I had something important on my mind. He finally gave in. He looked at me, half annoyed, half proud, and just said, “Go!”

I was excused just in the nick of time. I grabbed my black-plastic, can-style Quaker Boy owl hooter, laced up my K-Mart hunting boots, and hit the ground running. We had an enormous block of beautiful hardwoods behind the house that went on for miles, with railroad tracks bisecting the big tract of forest. The year before, a buddy and I tried to work a bird just off the tracks to no avail. That was the first time I ever heard a turkey gobble. We didn’t end up killing that bird. We bumped him off the limb—just being young and dumb.

Anyway, I finally reached the exact location from the year before and pulled out my owl call. Per Dick Kirby’s instruction, right at sunset, I let out a “Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all!” My hoot rang out across the big hardwood bottom, and I’ll be damned if a bird didn’t immediately answer the call with a deep, hard, Eastern turkey gobble not 100 yards away. I went into a mild state of shock.

I darted home to dial my best friend, Jeff Bevevino (aka Bev), who lived just down the way. Remember when you had everybody’s phone number memorized? This was 1989.

(Bev’s father, Jim Bevevino, to whom I am forever grateful for introducing me to hunting two years earlier).

The phone conversation went something like this:

Bev: “Hello?”
Me: “Hey, it’s Pawlak. Man, you’re not going to believe this…I just roosted a gobbler behind the house.”
Bev: “No way!”
Me: “Yep, he’s on the other side of the tracks, off Middlebury Road, by the pond.”
Bev: “I guess we’re not going to hit that party tonight. I’ll be at your house at 4:45 a.m. sharp!”

If it was the weekend in Orchard Park, New York back in the late ’80s or early ’90s, there was a high school party going on somewhere, and Bev and I were typically in attendance. Not this time. Bev came rolling up in his cherry red 1970 Ford pick-up at 4:45 a.m. on the dot. I set my shotgun behind the seat and jumped in. We discussed how neither of us had slept a wink and devised a plan of attack.

We decided to drive down Knob Hill Road, hit Middlebury, and park at the dead end. This would save us a long walk through the spooky, pitch black, haunted forest. Instead, we would take the long way and walk the tracks to the dominant tom’s roost.

We finally arrived. It was still pretty dark when I hit the owl call. We were rookie turkey hunters, but again, that ol’ tom let out a thunderous gobble high from his perch. Bev’s eyes opened wide. “Wow, he’s right there!” he whispered.

It was an extremely steep bank off the railroad rock apron leading down into the hardwood bottom where the bird was perched. We were whispering back and forth, trying to figure out how to descend from the tracks to the forest floor without making a racket. Just then, way off in the distance, we heard the whistle of the morning train.

It was decided. We would wait. When the train came rumbling by, we would use the noise as cover and slip into position. The massive smoke-breathing locomotive was finally on us, and we dropped in. We found comfortable ambush sets at the bases of two big silver maples, about 10 yards apart. This way, we figured we could cover a larger area should the gobbler commit.

As the train rolled on, it became quiet again. I don’t remember the Spring woods coming alive as the sun began to rise. There was dead silence. And then, when it was just light enough, I hit the plunger on a Quaker Boy Easy Yelper four times: yelp, yelp, yelp, yelp. Way too loud—I had no idea how effective a light tree call could be back then. But, unbelievably, the bird answered me with another thunderous gobble. He was still on the limb, not 80 yards from our turkey-hunting setup. At least I had the sense not to call again. Two minutes later, we heard him hit the ground. I called again. He hammered back and it shook us to our core. I didn’t dare touch the call again until he gobbled on his own. I then answered back with my way-too-loud series of four yelps.

Unbeknownst to me, Bev was able to watch the entire show, the flydown, the tom in and out of strut, and his methodical approach. Where I was positioned, I could only hear him. I later learned that Bev could have killed him on two different occasions, but the bird was still closing the distance, so he let him come. What an unselfish young hunter! The old tom then swung around to the direction of my call and I smoked him at 10 yards. We ran up to the flopping longbeard. We were in utter disbelief. Speechless and still shaking, we just looked from the dead tom to each other.

That was it. I was hooked. In 35 years, I’ve never missed a Spring turkey season.

My Best Hunt

If you ever get the chance, head to the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and hunt for the Ocellated. This place is impossible to describe. The best outdoor writers on the planet cannot adequately put this Indiana Jones-type adventure into perspective. All I can say is, call WTA, ask for Mike Mason, and book with WTA-owned outfitter Balam. This adventure deep in the jungle is something you will never forget.

My Biggest Bird

In 2004, I took a 26-pound Rio in Stafford, Kansas with a 12″ beard and enormous hooks. However, the best part of this hunt wasn’t the size of this bird. It was meeting Dr. Fritz and Judy Farmer and their two pet wolves, Cubby and Bear. Judy has since passed on. She was a wonderful, sweet, generous woman…the very best. Fritz became a friend for life.

My…

Wyoming Hunts You Need to Know About – Deer, Elk & Antelope