The trophy species results came out today and I'm going Buffalo hunting! ...but only because my buddy drew a tag. I grew up hunting in WY, but he's fairly new to hunting big game (his only experience is w/Texas whitetails over feeders) so I wanted to get all the info I could. And I'm sure I'm not the only one on this forum who could benefit from some expertise of those who've been on this hunt.
When's the best time of year? I don't know if we can choose or if the WGFD assigns us a time. We're both in school so December/January is what we're hoping for. We also want to avoid Grizzlies and he wants a rug made out of the hide - so again hoping for late season.
Is hunting limited just to the Elk Refuge? I know the Teton Nat'l Park is off limits, but what about the Bridger Teton Nat'l Forrest along the Refuge's eastern border - is hunting buffalo there allowed (granted they even go there)?
Also curious about everyone's experience taking care of the animal once it's down and what method you think is best for field dressing. I know this will be a huge job and I've heard if there is snow on the ground that using a fisherman's sled to transport meat is pretty handy (I understand the WGFD even has some of these on hand you can borrow).
Lastly, if we use a meat processor in WY who do you all recommend? I've used one in Star Valley and a few around Laramie but never been super impressed. And if anyone knows someone in WY who tans hides with the hair on that'd be nice to know.
Thanks
When's the best time of year? I don't know if we can choose or if the WGFD assigns us a time. We're both in school so December/January is what we're hoping for. We also want to avoid Grizzlies and he wants a rug made out of the hide - so again hoping for late season.
Is hunting limited just to the Elk Refuge? I know the Teton Nat'l Park is off limits, but what about the Bridger Teton Nat'l Forrest along the Refuge's eastern border - is hunting buffalo there allowed (granted they even go there)?
Also curious about everyone's experience taking care of the animal once it's down and what method you think is best for field dressing. I know this will be a huge job and I've heard if there is snow on the ground that using a fisherman's sled to transport meat is pretty handy (I understand the WGFD even has some of these on hand you can borrow).
Lastly, if we use a meat processor in WY who do you all recommend? I've used one in Star Valley and a few around Laramie but never been super impressed. And if anyone knows someone in WY who tans hides with the hair on that'd be nice to know.
Thanks