Elk Hunts in Wyoming
Wyoming offers plenty of open spaces for hunting and one of its most popular game is elk. Knowing Wyoming's hunting regulations, plus a few good private hunting outfitters, will help you plan the best elk hunts.
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Elk Season
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Elk season runs from September through November, with most hunting areas opening up in October or November. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (see Resources for a link) has extensive information on elk hunting for residents and nonresidents. Hunters should check in with the state's posted regulations, as these are apt to change without notice.
Hunting Permits
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Nonresidents can apply for either a general or limited quota elk license, awarded via lottery system. A limited quota license restricts hunting to specialized areas, while a general license allows nonresidents to hunt in any area. When applying, hunters will receive information about when in the season they can hunt certain kinds of elk. There are also separate licenses for hunting female and calf elk than the prized males.
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Resident Hunting Permits
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Residents can also apply for a license via a separate lottery. If residents or nonresidents are unsuccessful in winning a full license, they may be able to purchase a restricted area license and should check with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Typically hunting applications have a spring deadline.
Competency Test
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Wyoming has regulations regarding the use of firearms and all hunters must either pass a competency test or have an experienced hunter acting as a mentor with them at all times. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department website has specific information about taking the competency exam.
Guided Elk Hunts
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For those interested in hunting with guides, there are several companies that specialize in elk hunting trips in Wyoming. SNS Outfitters & Guides (see Resources) offers two Wyoming elk hunt experiences, one performed via horseback and the other a lodge-based hunt. Triple Three Outfitters (see Resources) offers guided elk hunts performed via foot on private land. Triple Three also offers an on-site taxidermist for hunters wanting to commemorate big kills. Most Triple Three hunts are five days.
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