Pronghorn
Pronghorn populations are performing well throughout most of the region, with license issuance increasing in most Hunt Areas west of the Laramie Mountains. However, grassland herds east of the Laramie Mountains, including Hunt Areas 11, 34, 38, and 103, are experiencing severe drought conditions. While buck numbers remain decent in these herds, pronghorn may be more difficult to locate due to a scarcity of water on the landscape. Overall, hunting opportunities within the Laramie Region will remain similar or better than previous years.
Mule Deer
Mild winter conditions likely benefited mule deer herds throughout the region. Adult buck numbers are strong in the Platte Valley and Sheep Mountain herds; however, a warmer-than-average fall could lead to difficult hunting conditions. Hunting in the Shirley Mountains and Laramie Range should be consistent with past years. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) continues to slowly increase across herd units. The Goshen Rim Herd Unit currently has the highest prevalence at 36%. Other herds that averaged less than 10% five years ago have risen to approximately 15%, representing a concerning trend for mule deer populations.
Hunters in Hunt Areas 15, 61, 74, 75, 76, and 77 must be aware that these areas are under mandatory CWD sampling. Wildlife biologists, technicians, and game wardens will be active throughout the season at check stations to assist with collection efforts. More information will be forthcoming regarding check station locations, CWD head box locations, and other sampling sites for harvested mule deer.
Elk
Populations remain above objective, providing ample harvest opportunities throughout the region. The Type 8 license, introduced in 2024 for Hunt Areas 3, 6, 7, and 8, will continue in 2026. This reduced-price cow/calf license is unlimited in number; however, limitations vary by Hunt Area, so hunters are encouraged to review the regulations. Bull hunting opportunities remain favorable across the region, including in general hunt areas. Given the hunting pressure on public land, hunters should be prepared to pursue elk at a distance from well-traveled roads and trails. Look for additional access on properties enrolled in the Game and Fish "Access Yes" program, and ensure you secure a permission slip if required.
Bighorn Sheep
Hunting should be excellent throughout the Laramie Region. Hunter success reached 100% in Hunt Areas 18, 21, and 26, and 91% in Hunt Area 19. The average age of harvested rams was 8 years old in Hunt Areas 19 and 21, and 7 years old in Hunt Area 18.
Moose
Hunters with moose licenses can expect excellent opportunities in the Snowy Range Herd this fall. Harvest success for Type 1 and Type 4 licenses continues to be exceptional, as the herd maintains high bull ratios and healthy calf production. Vegetation regrowth following the Mullen Fire is also expected to improve moose habitat.
Upland game
Below-average precipitation across the region is expected to result in average to below-average brood survival for upland game birds, particularly sharp-tailed grouse, pheasants, and sage grouse. Dusky (blue) grouse should fare better due to higher elevation precipitation and vegetation recovery in the Mullen Fire area. Game and Fish will continue stocking pheasants for the Springer Special Hunt, as well as for the general season through November and early December on the Springer WHMA and "Access Yes" areas. Release sites will be announced prior to the November 1 opening of the general pheasant season.
Weather Conditions
While winter conditions were mild, spring and summer precipitation has been below average, especially at lower elevations. Consequently, range conditions are poorer than in previous years.