Wyoming Antelope Hunt - Conclusion

[scoutdog5]

Hunting antelope in Wyoming reminds me of hunting mule deer in Central Oregon in the early 60's (man am I old). Lots of animals, lots of bucks, fun, fun, fun.

Although I did not take an antelope, I had a great trip, and really wasn't unhappy about it given what I thought were antelope smaller than I had taken in Oregon. Boy was I wrong.

A few days ago, Yard Dog and I measured his 13" antelope. Obviously it is not an official score, but we were pretty careful, and came up with 75". I was shocked. None of my antelope came close to that, and a 16" buck one our partners took in the Ochocos was smaller than that.

Yard Dog's buck had 7" circumference measurements at both lower measuring points on both horns. 28 points on those four measurements, and circumference points totaling 40", more than half the total score. Combined with very even horns, with minimal deductions, he was a very nice trophy for a second draw left over tag on public land. Based on what we saw, this part of Wyoming does not produce bucks with good length, but makes up for it in excellent mass. A 15" buck from this area would likely be close to book.

When we planned the hunt, gas was $ 4 plus a gallon. By the time we left, it had dropped considerably. We paid 2.29 in Casper, slightly higher coming and going, except for Bend. We stayed in a 2 room suite in Casper for 5 nights, drove straight through coming and going. I normally don't figure the cost of food into a trip, since I tend to eat every day regardless of where I am, and eat out alot. Here are our costs, per person.

Tag Fee: 298.00 (including conservation stamp)
Hotel: 240.00
Gas: 230.00
Game proc: 50.00
Misc: 50.00

total: 868.00 per person

Given the sad state of hunting in Oregon, I am surprised more of you aren't making this trip, especially if you have kids. I have spent a lot of time over the past four years researching Wyoming, and later tonight I will post the key info you need to decide if you want to think about making this trip.

Scoutdog

[SalmonSeason]

I have and am going to spend hard earned dollars outside of this state

thanks for your story

[Roguerunner]

I have always wanted to hunt out of state. would love to hear more info. thanks!

[QH's Paw]

Originally Posted by scoutdog5

Given the sad state of hunting in Oregon, I am surprised more of you aren't making this trip, especially if you have kids. I have spent a lot of time over the past four years researching Wyoming, and later tonight I will post the key info you need to decide if you want to think about making this trip.

Scoutdog

I did go but, I only bought the over the counter leftover doe tag for $34. I also bought a preference point for $30 to up my odds on next year's draw. I stayed at my son's place so I didn't have to spend anything on hotel. We saw herds that had more bucks then does and all was on public land. I can't wait for next season and the draw results.