First Time Hunting Muley's in Wyoming - Little Help

[Freedom_KY_Hunter]

Hello all, first time caller, long time listener.

I'm applying for a Muley bowhunt for Wyoming this year, probably in Region C, this will be my first mule hunt ever. I will be unguided, however, I have a little help in that some friends of mine have hunted this region for 3 years and scored each year, also, they gps the location of their kills each year, so I have a little knowledge to go on from that. Oh and I'll be with another hunter, so as I won't be alone.

Anybody got any real pointers that I should automatically keep an eye out for? I'll be going around the end of September, but right before any gun season.

I've got one more question, what type of boots does everyone recommend? I've got some Danners that are about almost knee high, just feel like they're a bit of overkill. Not looking for to spend great amounts on boots, but, I would think a smaller 6-8" boot might be best.

Thanks for any tips, pointers and comments.

I'll hang up and listen.

 

[Againstthewind]

Light comfy boots I would say, but maybe bring some mud boots. No tennis shoes for the cactus I guess

 

[danroecker]

I don't know Wyoming too well so can't help you with the area. Knowing this is your first mule deer hunt, I would recommend that you get very comfortable shooting up/down hill, my guess is that you'll be hunting some steep terrain and you don't want to blow that opportunity because you didn't cut yards due to the incline.

As for the boots, I've been wearing Danner Pronghorns for years and highly recommend them for their overall comfort and durability. I personally go with 8" height because I don't like it when sticks, rocks, snow, etc comes in over the top...

Best of luck!

 

[WY ME]

I agree with Againstthewind on no tennis shoes as the cactus will come right up through the soles. Get vibram soles and leather sided shoes/boots for the cactus. I've got Danner pronghorns but I think any brand is fine. I used to hunt on a ranch north of Gillette in the 70-s and 80's but the trespass fee got too rich for my blood. I'd love to go back but I haven't won the lottery yet.

 

[Freedom_KY_Hunter]

Awesome and thanks for the replies so far. I was looking at the Pronghorn boots. Obviously, I'll have to get drawn before I can make any definite plans, but, I'm still trying to gain as much info as I can.

If not this year, next year, RIGHT!

 

[Againstthewind]

Good optics I would also say. Probably hear that a lot on here I think. Mule deer seem to like to hide as long as possible and will let you walk right by if you are so inclined. Tall sagebrush, clumps of grass, etc. sometimes get over looked when looking for a perfect hole for them to be in but sometimes there are deer where you would think you would see them right off but you don't. Seems like it sometimes anyway.

 

[Freedom_KY_Hunter]

Just got a pair of Vortex Diamondback 10x50 bino's for Christmas. They'll be put to the test before this, but, looking at getting a spotting scope too. Would that be recommended more so than just the bino's I've got now? Also, thanks for the heads up about sagebrush, etc., hadn't thought of that before.

There's a wealth of info around here!

 

[mntnguide]

You will definitely not regret having a spotting scope in that country for mule deer.

 

[Freedom_KY_Hunter]

You will definitely not regret having a spotting scope in that country for mule deer.

Any certain ones to stay away from, look into (pun intended, quite terrible joke)? Not use to them b/c where I hunt in Kentucky, we don't need much use for any due to the terrain, brush, etc.

 

[Againstthewind]

Lol I love terrible jokes!

 

[nmmuledeerhunter]

I have a Vortex Razor HD 16-48X65 and it makes all the difference in the world as it saves you from the guessing a lesser scope leads to. These scopes are pricy, but in my opinion are well worth the extra money! Don't forget a good pair of binos as well! Good luck!

 

[J.R.]

Hello
I am a first time mule deer hunter. I have 4 points for WY. I am trying to do a DIY hunt. I have been on the WY fish and game website and it is a little over whelming. I am looking for any direction on units I might focus on? I have read about paying trespass fees to hunt on ranches but, the WY fish and game website it seems they are mostly looking for hunters to hunt does. Does anyone know of any ranches? Thank you for the help.

 

[bghunter]

Hello
I am a first time mule deer hunter. I have 4 points for WY. I am trying to do a DIY hunt. I have been on the WY fish and game website and it is a little over whelming. I am looking for any direction on units I might focus on? I have read about paying trespass fees to hunt on ranches but, the WY fish and game website it seems they are mostly looking for hunters to hunt does. Does anyone know of any ranches? Thank you for the help.

Welcome J.R.
I know members would like to know more about you before they start giving some advises. Could you please go to the new member section and introduce yourself?

 

[Umpqua Hunter]

Unless I am on a true mountain hunt, I normally just hunt in a mid height (over ankle) trail boot with a good sole. They are lightweight and comfortable. For me, Merrell boots are super comfortable.

 

[Timberstalker]

If your in a tight budget there are companies that will rent high quality optics. I've rented gear in the past and have not regretted it. It gives you a chance to test out gear prior to buying it. Some items I only need every so often and can't justify the cost to buy.

Oh, good boots can be a Life Saver

 

[Freedom_KY_Hunter]

If your in a tight budget there are companies that will rent high quality optics. I've rented gear in the past and have not regretted it. It gives you a chance to test out gear prior to buying it. Some items I only need every so often and can't justify the cost to buy.

Oh, good boots can be a Life Saver

Wow, thanks for that info. Didn't even know that companies would do something like that. I'm not out to get the best gear, as I can't afford it, just want some good solid gear that works.

Been looking at Merrell boots some too. I guess best thing is just to go and try some one, and I'm guessing ankle support should be up near the top of my checks?

I'm thinking my Vortex Diamondback 10x50's should do fine out there. Thanks for the responses too!

 

[mnhoundman]

Just make sure and spend some time with the dimond backs, my brother in law bought some I think the 12x50 maybe, but they seem really hazzey to me. I only had the Steiner Predator 8x32 and they were much better, they are by far my best binos I've ever had, just wish they were a little bigger.