Important Note: The anticipation for hunters has been building for months, but the time has come or is rapidly approaching as seasons for big and small game are about to open across Wyoming. Please note, current and ongoing fire conditions throughout the state may change some of this information. We will be sending statewide and regional updates out as necessary to update the public on the most-current hunting conditions for their area on our Wildfire Impact page.
CHEYENNE — With the 2025 hunt season rapidly approaching, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has released the hunting forecast for its eight regions throughout Wyoming. This report includes general outlooks for big and small game, and is based on data and observations from the field by Game and Fish biologists and game wardens.
A few reminders
Before heading out be sure to review the 2025 hunting regulations for any season changes.
- Hunters who harvest a deer or elk in any of the state’s chronic wasting disease focus areas are encouraged to get it tested. The information is incredibly valuable and will help Game and Fish’s long-term monitoring and management efforts.
- Hunters and recreationists are reminded to be mindful of the spread of invasive species and to report locations of cheatgrass to county Weed and Pest Districts.
- Big game hunters are reminded that hunt areas denoted with an asterisk (*) have limited public hunting access and are largely private lands. In these areas, hunters should get permission to hunt private land before applying for a license, or at least recognize that hunting small, isolated parcels of public land can be difficult and frustrating at times.
- All licensed daily, annual, Pioneer and lifetime sage-grouse hunters will be required to carry an annual, free sage-grouse hunting permit to help us further expand efforts to survey sage-grouse hunters on their hunt experience.
Pronghorn
The Jackson Region has a small migratory segment of the Sublette pronghorn herd in Hunt Area 85. During the 2022-23 winter, pronghorn wintering in the Pinedale Region experienced extreme winter mortality as a result of unprecedented winter severity as well as an outbreak of Mycoplasma bovis. This prompted an emergency rule to close Hunt Area 85 for the 2023 hunting season. The closure was continued for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Regional managers will continue to assess recovery of the Jackson segment of the Sublette herd and may recommend to the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission to re-authorize hunting seasons in future years as appropriate.
Mule deer
Portions of the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds are managed in the region, including hunt areas 150-152, 155-156 and 144-146. Both herds include relatively large mule deer populations with special management strategies designed to provide high-quality hunting opportunities with at least 30 bucks per 100 does. Large-antlered, older-aged deer are harvested annually from both herds. Winter severity during the 2022-23 winter resulted in above average winter mortality in the Wyoming Range and near average mortality in the Sublette Herd. While the winters of 2023-24 and 2024-25 were relatively mild with very good survival, hunters in the Wyoming Range herd should again expect to see fewer deer than normal this fall. Those hunting the Sublette herd will likely see fewer bucks than in recent years. Mule deer enthusiasts should remember that periodic elevated winter mortality is common in western Wyoming mule deer herds, resulting in wide oscillations in population abundance trends over time. Hunting seasons are designed to promote population growth and these herds have demonstrated the ability to rebound relatively rapidly given several consecutive winters of below-to-average severity. All data indicate that the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds appear to be on the path to recovery.
The Jackson Region also includes the Targhee mule deer herd — Hunt Area 149 — which generally has low deer densities with limited hunter numbers and harvest.
White-tailed deer
Small populations may be found near riparian habitats throughout the region, and all hunt areas in the region offer the opportunity for hunters to harvest white-tailed deer during the general season. There are limited quota Type 3 (any white-tailed deer) and Type 8 (doe/fawn white-tailed) deer licenses available to provide additional opportunity. Any hunter holding a Type 3 or Type 8 white-tailed deer license for the combined hunt areas of 148, 150, 151, 152, 155 and 156 may obtain permission slips to hunt on the National Elk Refuge. Permission slips must be obtained through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Access web page, under National Elk Refuge Hunting. Hunters are encouraged to have their deer tested for CWD by bringing the head to a Game and Fish regional office or hunter check station. Mandatory sampling is required for white-tailed deer harvested on the National Elk Refuge.
Elk
The region manages four herds —(Jackson, Fall Creek, Afton and Targhee — with more than 16,000 elk. Season structures continue to provide ample opportunities to harvest bull and cow elk while continuing to manage each herd at objective. Bull ratios are 30 per 100 cows in the Jackson herd, 18/100 for Fall Creek and 22/100 in the Afton herd. Harvest rates can be weather dependent, as the timing of snow depths and cold temperatures push elk down in elevation can vary from year to year. Hunters should expect to see typical elk numbers in most hunt areas. Permission slips for access to hunt on the National Elk Refuge must be obtained through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Access web page, under National Elk Refuge Hunting.
Hunters are encouraged to have their elk tested for CWD by bringing the head to a Game and Fish regional office or hunter check station. Mandatory sampling is required for all elk harvested in Hunt Areas 75 (Grand Teton National Park) and 77 (National Elk Refuge).
Moose
All or parts of the Jackson, Sublette and Targhee herds are found in the region, and all are managed under a special management strategy to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining a harvest of older age-class bulls. While moose numbers continue to remain below desired levels, hunters lucky enough to draw a license should experience high success and have a good chance of harvesting a bull. The Fish Creek fire displaced moose hunters in 2024. However, it does not appear that the fire displaced moose. While the fire was substantial in size, some areas are already showing positive signs of regeneration.
With limited license availability, data from harvested moose is particularly useful to managers for herd and harvest assessment and management. Moose hunters are therefore encouraged to submit the two front incisors (lower teeth) from their harvested moose for aging. Successful hunters are also encouraged to bring their moose head to the Jackson Game and Fish regional office for sampling to help with ongoing disease surveillance such as CWD, carotid artery worms, etc.
Bighorn sheep
The Jackson (Hunt Area 7) and Targhee (Hunt Area 6) bighorn sheep herds are found in the region. All sheep hunters — including ewe hunters — are reminded that they are required to register their sheep at a Game and Fish office within 15 days of harvest.
Survey data in Area 7 indicates good availability of rams with ¾-curl or longer horns, with an average success rate in recent years of almost 65%. Sheep numbers in Hunt Area 7 are within management objectives, and need to be maintained at those levels. In previous years, when sheep numbers have increased above the population objective, the population has experienced significant all-age die-offs due to pneumonia outbreaks. The Type 6 ewe season structure is an important management tool, designed to maintain population numbers in an effort to prevent a pneumonia outbreak. Ewe sheep hunters willing to spend the time and effort should have a high opportunity for success. Type 6 ewe hunters should expect most ewes will be found at high elevations of typically 9,000 feet or more during the early rifle seasons. Type 6 ewe hunters will not have a special archery opportunity, and may hunt within the Gros Ventre River and Flat Creek drainages east of U.S. Highway 89/191/26.
In Area 6, success rates vary substantially between years because of the low license quota. The average age of harvested sheep since 2019 has been 8-9 years old. The regular season opens earlier in the northern portion of the herd in an effort to encourage a more even distribution of harvest throughout the herd. For the one lucky hunter in 2025, this will be a challenging hunt due to the terrain and the fact that most sheep can be inaccessible to hunting when inside the Grand Teton National Park boundary. However it also provides a unique and exceptional opportunity to hunt sheep in a spectacular setting.
Mountain goat
In response to a decline in the number of goats counted during the 2022 and 2024 mid-summer trend counts, the quota for Hunt Area 2 mountain goat licenses were reduced for the third consecutive season. The Palisades herd still offers hunters the opportunity to harvest trophy-class billies that typically are at least 5 years old.
Bison
The Jackson bison herd is within the population objective, with an increasing population trend. Weather is a substantial factor in harvest success for this herd. For example, harvest success in 2023 was 39% and it increased to 95% in 2024. In general, recent trends by which mild weather and aversion to hunting pressure on the National Elk Refuge have resulted in delay or lack of movement from Grand Teton National Park into the open hunt area on the refuge. These conditions make it difficult to achieve harvest, often with an extremely limited number of days where bison are available for harvest on the refuge, if at all. Some bull hunting occurs on national forest lands, but bison availability there is intermittent and low, and access can be challenging. For this reason, license holders are encouraged to capitalize on any harvest opportunity that is available as opposed to selecting for bulls only. License holders who wish to hunt on the National Elk Refuge must obtain a permission slip through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Access web page, under National Elk Refuge Hunting.
Bison hunters are reminded that they must obtain a harvest reporting card, tooth envelope and blood collection tube at the Jackson Game and Fish office prior to their hunt.
Upland/small game
Due to the small and isolated population of sage-grouse in the region, no hunting seasons are offered. Hunters interested in upland game birds can find some of the best dusky and ruffed grouse habitats in the state. Seasons run from September-December. Late-season hunters need to be mindful of winter range closures in some areas that begin in December.
Weather/drought influences
The Jackson region represents a small portion of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which is a weather-driven system. Snow pack attributes, timing and duration of run-off, and spring/summer precipitation are all major drivers in the habitat conditions that support wildlife populations throughout the year. For an oversimplified example, when winter conditions are severe, overwinter mortality increases. However, while overwinter mortality decreases when winter conditions are mild, lower soil moisture can reduce forage productivity during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. These conditions also impact fire behavior. The Fish Creek fire burned more than 26,000 acres in the fall of 2024. Because of the large acreage, expect habitat benefits to wildlife over the coming years, particularly through the regeneration of aspen and riparian habitats which has already been observed in some areas. Last fall, winter arrived late, with January 2025 having 70-89% long-term median snow water equivalent in the Yellowstone and Snake river watersheds in Wyoming. Those watersheds had 90-109% for the remainder of winter. This spring however, has been drier, at 50-69% of the long-term median SWE for June.
Spring and summer conditions throughout the region have produced average to above-average precipitation and lower temperatures through July. The 2024-25 winter was relatively mild across the region, with the exception of a cold snap that produced significant snow and cold weather for two weeks. Fortunately, the cold winter weather was short lived and most snow melted within a week on winter ranges after the cold weather subsided. These conditions should bode well for wildlife within the region. If conditions continue and there is good late-summer/fall precipitation, wildlife populations should benefit.
Pronghorn
Populations are stable to increasing within the Bighorn Basin. Herds within the Bighorn Basin have demonstrated increased fawn production and hunter success during the 2024 season compared to 2023. Early field observations suggest good fawn production throughout much of the region. For those fortunate enough to draw pronghorn licenses within the region, overall hunting should be better than last year.
Deer
Winter survival appears to be close to average throughout much of the region. Focal herd data suggests overwinter survival was higher in the North Bighorn mule deer herd than the Upper Shoshone herd. Fawn production appears to be slightly better than last year based on early season field observations. The region observed improved fawn production in most of the deer herds during the 2024 deer classifications. A majority of mule deer herds within the region are currently below population management objectives. Hunters should expect conditions and success to be similar or slightly improved compared to the 2024 season. Prolonged drought and increasing chronic wasting disease prevalence have had a negative impact on Bighorn Basin deer herds over the past several years. Managers are hopeful the recent positive trends in fawn production and precipitation will provide a needed boost to mule deer populations in the region.
Some notable changes to the hunting season structure in the Cody region include the addition of a 3-point or better APR in hunt areas 50 and 53, extending the Upper Shoshone herd (hunt areas 110-114) general season until Nov. 10, and extending the Clarks Fork (hunt areas 105-106) general deer seasons toOct. 31. Additionally, the hunt area boundaries have been slightly changed within hunt areas 106 and 109. Hunters are encouraged to read the descriptions found within the regulations or visit the WGFD Hunt Planner to see the changes displayed on a map.
Elk
Most herds continue to perform well within the region, with a majority of the herds at objective. Based on improved precipitation and early field observations, calf production seems to be similar to last year. Elk hunters should expect good elk hunting within the Cody Region again this year. The Cody elk herd (hunt areas 55-56, 58-61 and 66) is currently above its established management objective and managers have increased cow licenses in most hunt areas, and liberalized cow elk season dates in hunt areas 56 and 58 by opening seasons earlier and running them later in hopes of increasing cow elk harvest. Additionally, to better assess the age structure in bull elk within Hunt Area 61, managers are asking all bull hunters to submit teeth (lower-center two incisors) from their harvested animals, and fill out a data card and submit it back to the department. The Paintrock elk herd (hunt areas 41, 45) is now meeting objectives and managers have decreased both cow and bull licenses to stabilize the herd at its managemnt objective.
Moose
Herds within the region have been performing better over the past several years. Bighorn Mountains moose in Hunt Area 42 are performing well. During the fall of 2024 managers observed numbers exceeding the trend objective. Data collected for Hunt Area 9 in the Absaroka herd suggests good calf production in 2024. Managers are observing a slight increase in moose numbers in Hunt Area 11, particularly within the Sunlight Basin area. Moose hunters fortunate to have drawn a license should expect good moose hunting conditions and success. Moose hunters are encouraged to provide teeth from their harvested animals (lower-center two incisors) to assist the Game and Fish in its moose management program. Additionally, hunters are encouraged to bring in their harvested moose head to allow the department to collect CWD samples and carotid artery worm samples to better monitor disease in moose populations.
Bighorn sheep
The Absaroka (hunt areas 1-5) and Devil’s Canyon (Hunt Area 12) herds are located within the region. Sheep numbers are within management objectives for the Absaroka herd, and have recently fallen below objective in the Devils Canyon herd due to a recent disease die-off. It is estimated the die-off reduced the Devil’s Canyon herd by 40%, but field personnel have observed promising lamb recruitment thus far and anticipate the herd will recover. Ram licenses within the Devils Canyon herd were slightly increased from three to four Type 1 licenses, and the newer Type 2 license was reduced from five licenses to four for any ram less than three quarter curl. These new Type 2 licenses are designed to focus harvest on younger rams to prevent them from foraying out of the Devil’s Canyon herd and potentially returning with new diseases. Licenses within the Absaroka herd remained similar with minor adjustments made to balance the required 90/10 split for resident/nonresident licenses. Those fortunate to have drawn bighorn sheep licenses within the region should enjoy good hunting this fall.
Mountain goat
The Beartooth herd (hunt areas 1, 3 and 5A) is within its population management objective. The 2025 season structure has been designed to stabilize or slightly increase goats in Hunt Area 3 while maintaining harvest levels within Hunt Area 1. Licenses in Hunt Area 3 were slightly reduced for the 2025 season as goat populations are nearing their management objective, and to balance the required 90/10 resident/nonresident split. Hunt Area 1 licenses remained the same for 2025. Those fortunate enough to have drawn a goat license should have a good goat hunt.
Upland game/small game
The region has received similar precipitation to last year, thus continuing the recent trend of good upland/small game habitats. Upland bird hunters should expect similar or slightly improved hunting conditions compared to last year. Chukar and Hungarian partridge populations are rebounding but still aren’t at the peak of their cycles, and field managers aren’t seeing as many broods as they normally do when populations are high. Early observations from field managers suggest sage-grouse production may have improved from last year. The department is placing sage-grouse wing barrels out in the southern portion of the Bighorn Basin to primarily collect sage-grouse wings. Hunters are encouraged to place any upland game bird wings in barrels when they encounter them to improve the department’s knowledge of game bird populations within the Cody Region. Rabbit hunting should be similar or slightly improved from last season. Tree squirrel hunting in 2025 is expected to be exceptional.
Wildlife disease management
Hunters are encouraged to assist wildlife managers in the collection of wildlife disease samples. If you receive a brucellosis sample kit in the mail, please carry the sample kit in the field and collect a blood sample. Targeted brucellosis sampling areas for the 2025 hunting season are: 39, 40, 41, 45, 49, 55, 56, 58, 59, 60, 61,64, 65 and 66. Additionally, there are several priority chronic wasting disease sample collection hunt areas within the region, hunters who harvest a deer are encouraged to provide Game and Fish with a CWD sample, or bring the head and a few inches of the neck to a check station or the regional office in Cody. Priority deer areas include the Southwest Bighorn Herd (hunt areas 35-37, 39,40, 164), the Shoshone River herd (hunt areas 121, 122, 123) and the Clarks Fork herd (105, 106, 109). Additionally, the Cody Region has mandatory CWD sampling in effect for Hunt Area 164 Types 1 and 7 hunts. Please submit samples at a Game and Fish check station, brucellosis coolers, at the Cody regional office or call the regional office at (307) 527-7125 to make arrangements.
Pronghorn
Herds in the Sheridan Region have fluctuated in recent years due to prolonged drought, disease (Mycoplasma bovis, epizootic hemorrhagic disease and bluetongue virus) and severe winters in 2018-19 and 2022-23. While most populations are below objective they have been trending upwards. The mild winter of 2024-25 and favorable range conditions from this spring should help fawn recruitment. This year’s seasons are similar to the last couple of years with some areas having slight increases in quotas. These adjustments should help populations reach desired levels while still maintaining ample harvest opportunities for hunters. Land ownership in much of the region is predominantly private land and access to public lands is difficult, so hunters are encouraged to make arrangements for private land access. Hunter densities on many accessible tracts of public land can be high, especially on opening day and weekends. Hunters who plan hunts later in the season or mid-week often see less crowding.
Mule deer
Numbers in the Sheridan Region have been trending downward since 2019 and herd units are below objective. Poor range health, drought, severe winters and disease have contributed to this decline. Observed fawn ratios around the region have improved since 2023, however, suppressed doe/fawn ratios will take several years to recover. While there is significant desire to increase deer numbers, in some areas range conditions are currently poor enough that they could not support additional deer on the landscape at this time. Multiple habitat projects are ongoing to improve range conditions. Hunting seasons for 2025 are similar to 2024 with reductions in doe/fawn license issuance. Antler point restrictions are in place for 2025 in hunt areas 19, 25, 29 and 31. Hunters should expect difficult access to private lands and some overcrowding on accessible public lands. Some access opportunities for deer and pronghorn are available on walk-in hunting and hunter management areas. These areas can be found under the public access tab on the Game and Fish website.
White-tailed deer
Numbers are starting to rebound from back-to-back EHD and bluetongue virus outbreaks in 2021 and 2022. Managers are still managing this population with liberal hunting seasons to address damage to private property. Private land refugia and subdivision development along riparian corridors has made white-tailed deer management a challenge for managers in multiple locations. Hunting seasons and quotas in 2025 will look similar to previous years. Most white-tailed deer are found on private land with limited public land hunting opportunities. Landowners are encouraged to reduce deer densities through hunter harvest to address damage complaints, browsing pressure on shrub communities and help limit CWD prevalence and spread. Hunters should be aware CWD prevalence often exceeds 30% in white-tailed deer in the Sheridan Region.
Elk
There has never been a better time to hunt elk in the Sheridan Region. Hunt areas are at or slightly above objectives and managers have set liberal hunting seasons to encourage antlerless elk harvest. In two hunt areas, 123 and 129, there continues to be a type 8 license that allows hunters the opportunity to purchase an unlimited number of cow/calf elk licenses that are valid only on private land. Hunters were successful with these licenses in 2024. Hunters who were successful in drawing a limited quota elk license in one of the many hunt areas that make up the Bighorn Mountains should have plenty of opportunities to harvest an elk. Off the Bighorn National Forest, much of the hunting opportunities are found on private land and hunters are reminded to secure access prior to their hunt.
Moose
For those lucky few who drew a limited quota moose license, hunting should be excellent this fall. Moose in the Bighorn Mountains are doing well with a good number of mature bulls on the landscape. Moose quotas were changed slightly in 2025 to accommodate for the 90:10 split between residents and nonresidents. Multiple moose research projects are wrapping up which will inform moose management in the future.
Upland game
A relatively mild winte,r combined with well-timed spring precipitation, has been favorable for upland game brood rearing in 2025. Residual nesting cover was good and many biologists and game wardens have reported seeing broods this summer. While sage-grouse hunting in the majority of the region is closed , hunting for other game bird species should be good. Wild turkey numbers are doing well and liberal seasons allow hunters to have up to three fall turkey licenses until the Type 3 quota is exhausted. The Sheridan Bird Farm had another excellent year and pheasants will be released throughout the season on publicly accessible land. For those who hunt in those areas where pheasants are released, don’t forget to purchase your Pheasant Management Stamp.
The Green River Region experienced a mild winter in 2024-25 in terms of duration and mild temperatures. Winter precipitation received was comparable to long-term averages with higher elevations slightly above. Wintering ungulates likely performed well this year because of winter conditions experienced. However, this summer precipitation has been light through most of the region and dry conditions are starting to be seen. If this trend continues, it could have impacts to species.
Pronghorn
The region encompasses six pronghorn herds. Pronghorn numbers are still down across much of the region due to continuing productivity issues and harsh winter conditions seen in 2022-23. However, there is variability in where these suppressed pronghorn numbers are being seen. The southern hunt areas of the Sublette herd, while slightly suppressed in numbers, should still offer quality hunting experiences. A similar outlook should be expected for the Uinta-Cedar Mountain and Carter Lease herds. Most of these herds experienced mild conditions this winter. The Baggs and Bitter Creek herds experienced declines from the previous winter and are still overcoming those deficits. The South Rock Springs herd has shown to have higher numbers in the northern hunt area when compared to the southern portion of the herd, which was reflected in the modest increase in license issuance. In general, the lower population levels across the region resulted in a continuation of the conservative approach on Type 1 license allocations, however, there were some modest increases in any antelope opportunity.
Mule deer
In 2022-23, extreme losses were documented on winter ranges in the Wyoming Range and Uinta herds through GPS collaring efforts. Similar winter conditions were observed in the Baggs herd and it is likely that deer survival was similar in this area. These herds are still recovering and a good portion of the age classes hunters select for will be down. Due to these reasons, conservative seasons are again in place. Hunters should expect tough conditions in the following general hunt areas; 82,132-135 and 168. General hunt areas 100 and 131 have low density deer numbers and will continue to have conservative seasons. Hunters will likely have to put forth significant effort to find mature bucks in these hunt areas. The South Rock Springs deer herd (hunt areas 101 and 102) did not see the extreme winter conditions in 2022-23 as elsewhere in the region and some older age classes will likely be available for hunters. Fawn production is expected to be at or above-average throughout most of the region. Finding older-aged bucks will likely be tough throughout the region, particularly in the low deer density desert habitats.
Elk
Most herds in the Green River region are at or above population objectives. g Hunting should remain good in the region, including the special management herds in hunt areas 30-32 and 100, however, reductions in some license types were warranted based on classification ratios and previous hunting seasons success on certain license types. There still should be opportunities for mature animals and hunters could harvest nice bulls. General season structures were liberalized with added opportunity for antlerless elk. Cow hunting opportunities continue to remain liberal throughout much of the region where increased harvest is warranted, particularly in hunt areas 102-107, in an effort to move populations toward objectives. Managers are expecting an average or above-average elk harvest this fall, depending on weather conditions and hunter effort.
Small/upland game
Hunters should find similar opportunities for cottontail rabbits in 2025-26 throughout most of the region, which are an often under-utilized resource. Cottontails are being observed, but not in numbers that would indicate a significant increase. Snowshoe hare habitat is limited within the region, but opportunity does exist in some of the higher elevations. Upland game opportunities should be similar as in previous years. There should be ample dusky grouse opportunities in the Sierra Madre Mountains and Wyoming Range. Ruffed grouse opportunities exist on the north slope of the Uintas in the Wasatch National Forest and Wyoming Range. Sage-grouse peak male attendance this last spring generally exhibited similar counts as the previous year, which were favorable. If dry conditions persist going into late summer and early fall, there could be impacts to brood survival and overall production going into September. Hunters should still expect to put in significant effort to find sage grouse, but quality opportunities still exist. Other upland opportunities exist within the region for partridge, but are somewhat limited.
Pronghorn
Herds in the western portion of the Laramie Region in hunt areas 50, 51 and 52 are still recovering from long-term drought conditions as well as the 2022-23 winter. However, in the central part of the region populations are doing well, and license issuance has increased in hunt areas 42, 44, 45, 46, 46 and 48. Grassland herds within the Laramie Plains and east of the Laramie Mountains, which include hunt areas 11, 34, 38 and 103 have declined over the past seven years, along with notable decreases in fawn production. Decent buck numbers remain in these herds, but older animals will be hard to find. Mild winter conditions reduced stress on pregnant does, however, lack of spring and summer precipitation did not bode well for fawn survival, especially east of the Laramie Range. Overall, pronghorn hunting opportunities within the Laramie Region will be similar to previous years.
Mule deer
Mild winter conditions most likely had a positive effect on herds throughout the region, especially compared to the previous winter. Herds throughout the region are all below their population objectives which translates to less opportunity and harder hunting conditions. CWD continues to slowly increase across herd units. The Goshen Rim herd has the highest prevalence at 39% and herds that were at 9% five years ago are now around 15%.
Hunters taking to the field in Hunt Area 70 need to be aware that the area is under mandatory CWD sampling. Wildlife biologists, wildlife technicians and game wardens will be in full force throughout the seven-day season collecting CWD samples at check stations in the field to assist hunters with collection efforts.
Elk
Populations remain above objectives with ample harvest opportunities throughout the region. The Type 8 license was new in 2024 in hunt areas 3, 6, 7 and 8. This reduced price cow/calf license is unlimited in number, however, hunting limitations in each hunt area vary so hunters are encouraged to read the regulations so they are familiar with the differences. Bull hunting opportunities continue to be favorable throughout the region, even in general hunt areas. Given hunting pressure on public land, hunters should be prepared to pursue elk in areas that are a fair distance from well-traveled roads and trails. Look for additional access opportunities on properties enrolled in the Game and Fish Access Yes program, and be sure to secure a permission slip if needed.
Bighorn sheep
Hunting should be excellent. Hunter success was 100% in hunt areas 18 and 21 and 90% in hunt Area 19. The average age ram harvested was 8 years old in hunt areas 19 and 21, and 7 years old in hunt area 18.
Moose
Hunters with moose licenses are expected to have excellent hunting opportunities in the Snowy Range herd. Harvest success across Type 1 and Type 4 licenses continues to be exceptional, and the herd maintains high bull ratios and good calf production.
Upland game
Below-average precipitation across the region should result in average to below-average brood survival for upland game birds, particularly sharp-tailed grouse, pheasants and sage-grouse. Dusky grouse should be in better shape given decent precipitation events in the higher elevations as well as vegetation recovery within the Mullen Fire. Game and Fish will continue to stock pheasants for the Springer Special Hunt, as well as for the general season throughout November and a portion of December, on the Springer Wildlife Habitat Management Area and in areas enrolled in the Access Yes program. Release sites will be available to the public prior to Nov. 1, which is the opening date for the general pheasant season.
Pronghorn
After the mild winter in 2024-25, pronghorn are starting to recover from the extraordinarily severe winter conditions in 2022-23. There is some population recovery, but hunters should expect buck numbers and quality to be lower than in years prior given the significant mortality event during that bad winter. As a result, license numbers remain relatively low in 2025 and there will be markedly fewer hunters in the field. Those hunters that drew a license should expect good harvest success with a bit more effort to select a buck from fewer animals.
Deer
Throughout most of the region, mule deer populations continue to languish. With several years of reduced fawn recruitment resulting in the loss of at least three age classes, numbers remain below management objectives. Antler-point restrictions will continue in hunt areas near Lander and Rawlins. Elsewhere, hunters will have opportunities for similar harvest success as in past years — mostly with young bucks. Continued any white-tailed deer seasons are in place in the Dubois, Lander, Riverton and Jeffrey City areas. Hunters should expect similar mule deer hunting and success to last year.
Elk
Populations are doing well across the region. Last year’s calf production remained on par with previous years and should result in robust numbers. Observed bull numbers remained strong during mid-winter surveys. If favorable weather conditions are realized during the fall, hunters should experience excellent harvest opportunities.
Moose
Moose are at or below desired levels, and the hunting season framework includes continued conservative quotas. In hunt areas 2 and 30, it appears this population is stable, but harvest success was much lower than desired in 2024, so license issuance was decreased this season. Winter counts in the Dubois country continue to yield fewer moose and remain at historically low levels.
Bighorn sheep
Lamb production in the Whiskey Mountain herd was higher than in previous years, but is still low and continues to be a concern. Lamb productivity has been depressed in the herd for more than 30 years and while it has impacted population growth, there are rams available for harvest. Those who draw a tag in these areas should expect to see fewer rams than in the past but should experience reasonable success depending on their expectations. The Ferris-Seminoe herd, hunt areas 17 and 26, continues to grow and has reached its objective. As a result, license issuance for ewes/lambs was increased by 23 for this season. Also, eight Type 2 licenses valid for rams with less than a ¾-curl were implemented to increase harvest on the male segment of the herd to reduce the probability of foraying rams outside the herd unit. Foraying rams often find themselves moving through or mingling with domestic livestock, contracting harmful pathogens and returning to their herd or another herd and can cause catastrophic disease events. The Type 2 license will help to reduce this risk by decreasing ram numbers, while maintaining older-aged rams in the population. Forty-three ewe/lamb licenses (Type 6 and 7) were issued in the herd unit,in addition to the nine Type 1- any ram licenses.
Upland game
Relatively wet and mild spring conditions appear to have favored sage-grouse, and likely dusky grouse, ruffed grouse, pheasants, chukars and gray partridge productivity. It is likely hunters will see more birds.
Pheasant hunting at the Sand Mesa and Ocean Lake wildlife habitat management areas continues to be popular with hunters from throughout the state. The one-day youth hunt at Sand Mesa and Ocean Lake will be Saturday, Nov. 15.
Small game
Cottontail rabbit populations seem to be down, in some places quite significantly. Snowshoe hares and red squirrels appear to be similar to 2024 within the region and opportunities for harvest should be good.
Pronghorn
Populations in the region have fluctuated in recent years. Some herds around Casper have remained at or near, population objectives, while herds t from Douglas to Lusk to Sundance are still below objective but are increasing. Between 2018-23, pronghorn numbers declined due to harsh winters coupled with poor fawn survival and periodic disease outbreaks . In most of the region, hunting seasons have been extremely conservative to allow numbers to rebound. Thankfully, substantial losses were not realized in much of the region during the winter of 2022-23 despite severe conditions in much of the state. Fawn production improved in 2023 and was exceptional in 2024. Adult over-winter survival also was high due to mild winters. This has led to an increase in populations, and a few more Type 1 and 6 licenses have been issued. Regardless, most of the region’s populations are still under objective, with conservative hunting seasons in place for the foreseeable future. Despite numbers remaining below desired levels in much of the region, hunters should experience average to high harvest success as buck ratios remain strong and license issuance is structured in an attempt to ensure high success for hunters.
Mule deer
Populations have decreased or remained stable throughout the region over the past several years, and all of the region’s populations remain well below management goals. This is due to poor survival of mule deer caused by droughts, changes in habitat conditions, disease in some herds and predation. Despite lower than desired numbers, buck ratios remain high in most herds, and hunter success should be good for those hunters hunting on private land or in limited quota areas. Hunters on public land in general license areas should expect low to moderate success due to lower numbers of deer and conservative hunting seasons. In the Black Hills, the season will again be open Nov. 1-20, with antlered deer hunting only. Hunters that have drawn a license in conservatively managed limited quota areas should see good buck ratios with modest trophy potential. In hunt areas 10, 22, 34 and 89 most prime-age, mature bucks don’t grow large antlers compared to mule deer in other parts of the state. However, these herds are managed for good numbers of older-aged bucks and produce some good deer each year. Thankfully, 2023 provided an extraordinarily wet spring and early summer, which led to good over-summer fawn survival, while bolstering the nutritional condition of adult females. Due to the good body condition of the females, fawn production in most of the region was above average in 2024. As a result, most mule deer herds stabilized in 2025 or slightly grew. However, it will take several more years of good fawn production and survival to greatly improve populations.
White-tailed deer
Populations throughout the region experienced substantial die-offs in 2021, and in some areas to a lesser extent in 2022 due to outbreaks of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD). Consequently, 2023 saw very low numbers in most of the region, especially in the Black Hills. Despite being only a couple years removed from the large-scale EHD die-off, numbers have begun to rebound in the Casper and Douglas areas. As a result, more generous hunting seasons have been set to prevent rapid population growth. Hunters are reminded the vast majority of white-tailed deer occupy private lands in the central and eastern part of the state. The notable exception is the Black Hills, where white-tailed deer numbers are increasing but are still under objective.
Elk
Numbers remain at or above objective in all region herds, and hunting seasons continue to be liberalized in most areas. The region continues to provide excellent bull-hunting opportunities, with many limited quota areas boasting high harvest success and good antler quality. Hunters with a Type 1 or 2 license in 2024 saw abov- average harvest success and success should again be high in 2025. Hunters also should find decent success pursuing younger bulls on Type 2 and 3 licenses in hunt areas 7, 113, 117 and 122, but should check the regulations for these areas and license types as they vary with regards to season dates and the type of bull that may be taken. Antlerless elk hunting should again be good this year, although high hunter numbers on public lands often result in reduced success compared to private lands. In elk Hunt Area 7, the Type 4 license was removed and the Type 6 license quota increased. A Type 8 unlimited cow/calf license will continue to be offered. This license will be valid on private land during the early season (county specific, check regulations) and valid off National Forest in Platte, Albany and Carbon counties and on private land only in Converse County starting Oct. 15. Unlimited Type 8 licenses that are restricted to private land are also available for hunt areas 113, 116, 117, 122 and 126. All of these Type 8 licenses are unlimited in number and not subject to the three license maximum per license holder. However, Game and Fish strongly recommends hunters not purchase a Type 8 license unless they have secured access to hunt on private land. In Area 23 a new Type 9 archery only license will be valid during the month of September. All other license types will not have the special archery season option.
Game birds
Consecutive years of mild winters and good spring moisture has led to good to great populations of game bird species. Throughout the region there will be great populations of wild turkeys with the vast amount of public land hunting opportunities being in the Black Hills. The central part of the region will see good gray partridge, sage-grouse and dusky grouse hunting opportunities. Ruffed and sharp-tailed grouse hunting will be good in the north and eastern part of the region.
Pronghorn
The 2022-23 winter was exceptionally harsh, which combined with an outbreak of the novel, pneumonia-causing bacteria Mycoplasma bovis, resulted in substantially elevated winter mortality for pronghornn. Nearly 2,000 licenses were cut in 2023, including all doe/fawn tags and about 80% of buck tags, to maximize the opportunity for the herd to rebound in future years. License allocation continued to be restrictive in 2024, and will again be conservative this year. The good news is August trend counts in 2024 resulted in a relatively high 67 fawns per 100 does, and the total counts increased markedly from 2023, so the herd is bouncing back.
Mule deer
Portions of the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds are managed in the region, including hunt areas 130, 138-143, 146, 153 and 154. Both herds include relatively large mule deer populations with special management strategies designed to provide high-quality hunting opportunities with at least 30 bucks per 100 does, and large-antlered, older-aged deer are harvested annually from these herds. Above-average snow depths and colder than normal temperatures during the 2022-23 winter resulted in above-average winter mortality in the Wyoming Range, and near average mortality in the Sublette herd. While the winters of 2023=24 and 2024-25 were relatively mild with good survival, hunters in the Wyoming Range herd should again expect to see fewer deer than normal this fall, and those hunting the Sublette herd will likely see fewer bucks than in recent years. Still, all data indicate that the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds appear to be on the path to recovery.
White-tailed deer
Small populations may be found near riparian habitats, and all deer hunt areas in the region offer the opportunity for harvest during the general seasons. Additionally, 50 limited quota type 3 licenses provide the opportunity to harvest any white-tailed deer from Oct. 1-Nov. 30 in hunt areas 138-140 and 142-143.
Elk
Nearly 10,000 elk in three large herd units are managed in the region. Liberal seasons provide hunters with ample opportunities, especially for antlerless elk, with all general seasons providing opportunity to harvest a cow or calf elk until Nov. 20. Bull numbers remain strong, with ratios ranging from 27 bulls per 100 cows in the Piney herd, 30/100 in the Upper Green River herd and 31 bulls per 100 cows in the Pinedale herd. The herds also remain productive, with an average of 25 calves per 100 cows region-wide, indicating stable to growing populations. Bull harvest in 2024 was near average with many nice bulls taken, but cow elk harvest was less than average as temperatures remained mild into November and snow did not push herds into more accessible lower elevation areas. Managers expect that 2025 should offer excellent elk hunting opportunities.
Moose
The Sublette herd is one of the largest Shiras moose populations in North America, and is managed under a special management strategy to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining an average harvest age of 4 years or older for bulls to maintain trophy quality. This herd has a winter trend count objective of 1,500 animals, and the population has been stable to slightly increasing over the last decade. A total of 140 bull and five antlerless licenses were offered in the Sublette herd for the 2025 hunting season. Hunters are advised to not be discouraged when scouting or hunting for moose during the early season when warm temperatures can drive moose into forested habitats where they are generally less visible. Moose hunters who hunt during the later portion of the season typically encounter more moose. Hunter success for the moose hunt areas in the region averaged 92% over the past five years and should again be high during the 2025 season.
Bighorn sheep
The Darby Mountain herd and a portion of the Whiskey Mountain herd are managed by the region. The bighorn sheep population in the Darby Mountain herd continues to be stable, with 79 animals observed during a March 2025 helicopter survey. A total of 16 adult rams were observed during this flight, and one license for any ram was issued to a resident for Hunt Area 24 in 2025. The overall population is struggling in the Whiskey Mountain herd due at least partially to chronic pneumonia and poor lamb recruitment. However, non-migratory bighorn sheep numbers observed during winter flights at high elevations in Hunt Area 8 appear to be mostly stable, with 102 animals counted during a March, 2025 helicopter survey. A total of two licenses for any ram were issued to residents for Hunt Area 8 in 2025.
Small game
Observations of male sage-grouse on leks during the spring indicate populations continue to be in the upswing of their trend after having been at a low point several years ago. Hunters should expect to see more sage-grouse this fall while afield. Decent populations of dusky and ruffed grouse can be found in forested habitats and provide hunting opportunities from September-December. Rabbit hunters can chase cottontails and snowshoe hares until the end of March, and populations appear to be increasing. Late-season hunters need to be mindful of winter range closures in some areas that begin in November and December.
MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS - Statewide
Lower-elevation precipitation was below normal this spring in most portions of the state and has been variable this summer, resulting in less robust wetland conditions and likely lower waterfowl production. Conditions in the Prairie Potholes of the U.S. and Canada are variable but below average in Alberta, Saskatchewan, northern Montana and the Dakotas where many of Wyoming’s harvested ducks are produced. Migration chronology and weather, as well as hunter efforts of scouting for birds and obtaining permission to hunt private land when necessary, will influence the success of migratory bird hunters throughout the state.
Before heading out be sure to review the 2025 hunting regulations for any season changes.
Ducks
Most of Wyoming’s migrating ducks come from the U.S. and Canadian prairies. Initial reports indicate dry early spring conditions in most portions of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, northern Montana and the majority of the Dakotas. Many of these areas experienced late spring precipitation, which benefits late nesters and locations where soil moisture was not already abnormally dry. Overall habitat conditions appear mixed for duck production, and local conditions in much of Wyoming appear fair to below average.
Dark geese
Two distinct Canada geese populations are harvested in Wyoming. The Rocky Mountain population is found west of the Continental Divide, in the Wind River and Bighorn river basins and western Carbon and Natrona counties. Large geese found in eastern Wyoming belong to the Hi-Line population. Goose numbers in recent years are above objectives for both populations. Canada goose numbers during hunting season are usually driven by winter conditions and there should be plenty of geese present should the weather cooperate.
Mourning doves
Production within most of Wyoming this year is likely below average due to below normal precipitation during spring months, followed by an abnormally dry early summer. The majority of doves migrate south with the first cold snap, which usually occurs late August to mid-September. Doves from areas north of Wyoming migrate through during mid-September and good hunting can still be found during early fall.
Sandhill crane
Cranes that migrate through eastern Wyoming — Hunt Area 7 — are primarily from the Mid-Continent population, which has been relatively stable since the early 1980s and exceeds the established objective range of 350,000–475,000. Cranes that breed and stage in central and western Wyoming —hunt areas 1-6, and 8 — are from the smaller Rocky Mountain population. The 2024 fall pre-migration survey population count was again above the objective range of 17,000-21,000, and resulted in an increase in available limited quota tags. Cranes in hunt areas 4 and 6 tend to roost and feed in the same locations every year. Roost locations in Hunt Area 4 are Hidden Valley, Riverview Valley and the south side of Ocean Lake. Roost locations in Hunt Area 6 are north of Worland, the Otto area, from Powell to Ralston and Ralston Reservoir. For best success, scout for cranes prior to the season and obtain permission to access the fields they use.
SAGE-GROUSE
A reminder that all licensed (daily, annual, Pioneer, and lifetime) sage-grouse hunters are required to carry a free, annual sage grouse hunting permit to help us further expand efforts to survey sage grouse hunters on their hunt experience. We appreciate hunters for the successful implementation of this permit in 2024. The permit will be available at Wyoming Game and Fish offices and online through the Department website.
In Hunt Area 1, which covers the western half of Wyoming, the 2025 sage grouse hunting season is similar to last year with the exception of a date shift to keep opening day anchored to the third Saturday in September. Hunt Area 1 opens September 20 and closes September 30. Hunt Area 4, which covers northeast Wyoming, is closed. Sage grouse populations appear to be trending upward in most areas as their population cycle continues. As a result, hunters should expect moderate rates of success. The number of birds harvested each year is strongly related to hatching success and over-summer chick survival. However, past trends indicate that populations are expected to enter the downward phase of their cycle starting next year.
