So Ive been going over the maps trying to find a few spots that look like decent spots for mule deer west Bighorn and Dayton areas. Ive got about 4 different areas picked out that I think look pretty good. Has anyone ever talked to game wardens or biologists up in that area? Are they willing to talk to a guy and answer questions or do they get so many calls a year from people looking for info that they get tired of it? Im basically just wanting to find out If any of the areas are a complete waste of time or if its worth giving them a look. Im going out in sept to do some scouting and hopefully some archery hunting then back in october for the rifle season.
Talking to Game and FIsh
- Thread starter usmc99
- Start date
Hilltop
Veteran member
In my experience most wardens will do a nice job explaining what they know. I have received some great information through the years from various wardens. My advice to you is to ask specific questions instead of "where should I hunt". Show them you have done some homework and they will likely help. Many of them are hard to reach by phone so I always plan to leave a detailed message when I call. Most will call you back when they have time. Keep in mind that some regions overlap so you may want to speak to multiple wardens to get all opinions/information.
Work2hunt
Veteran member
I've also had good success talking with Wyoming wardens.
As Hilltop mentioned, go with specific questions not give me GPS coordinates. Give them time as sometimes it will take a week or so to hear back but also don't hesitate to give a second call after 5 or so days. I've had numerous wardens lose my info in the pile because they do get a lot of calls.
As Hilltop mentioned, go with specific questions not give me GPS coordinates. Give them time as sometimes it will take a week or so to hear back but also don't hesitate to give a second call after 5 or so days. I've had numerous wardens lose my info in the pile because they do get a lot of calls.
shootbrownelk
Veteran member
Wyoming Wardens are informative. That is after they do a quick lookaround to see if a rancher is in earshot. They're always friendly and I can't remember one who wasn't. But they have plenty of other things to do, and I'm sure they get tired of calls.
WapitiBob
Veteran member
I've only talked to 1 warden, other than those at check stations. He was OK but the bio's I talked to this year talked my ear off. That's where I would go.
If you start the conversation letting them know you have some areas picked and why, then ask if you're on the right track, they'll open right up.
If you start the conversation letting them know you have some areas picked and why, then ask if you're on the right track, they'll open right up.
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Dustin23633
New Member
I have had good experiences with all F&G people that I have talked to, that being said, they are a S.O.B. to get ahold of. Some take weeks to call you back. I understand why tho, its a very busy time of the year for them. I called about 6-7 F&G this year, one game warden offered to meet up with me on a scouting trip to show me around. Ended up not working out but he at least offered! I highly recommend calling as many as possible. Happy Huntin'
I've been personal friends with a warden up in the NW corner of state for years. He said the phone calls are his least favorite part of the job. He deals with calls like noted here, but says he get's especially irritated when guys are literally asking for GPS coordinates. He sez after awhile he starts giving out the same canned info to everyone...
I've been calling various govt. folks for decades. For me, a Warden is the last person I call, and I call them only if I'm not confident in what I have already learned for a real top end unit. If I've done my home work, I'm usually pretty confident. Otherwise I leave Wardens alone, they tend to be rather busy doing other stuff I support. There are so many resources today, you can get most of what you need, in most cases, and leave the wardens alone. Biologists, habitat managers, hunters, forums, other hunters, guides/outfitters, publications, ... My 2 cents.
coastalarms
Active Member
I've had luck with the biologist. Most of the time they are pretty helpful. When possible, I call ahead and make an appointment to meet them when I am on a scouting trip. Otherwise I call and ask them for a phone appointment. And dont ask for a specific spot, ask about patterns... will they still be on their summer ground? Where does most of the hunting pressure come from? Is there water up high?
And remember, its still just once source of info. Some of the best info I have ever received came from husband/wife that owned a cafe/deli in a small town.
And remember, its still just once source of info. Some of the best info I have ever received came from husband/wife that owned a cafe/deli in a small town.