Wyoming offers diverse hunting opportunities, including the option to hunt with dogs. Canine companions can enhance the hunting experience, but hunters must be aware of specific regulations. Dogs are allowed for hunting certain animals in Wyoming, but restrictions apply to protect wildlife and ensure ethical practices.

Hunting with dogs in Wyoming requires careful consideration of state laws and species-specific rules. While dogs can assist in pursuing and retrieving game, their use is prohibited for some animals. Hunters should familiarize themselves with current regulations before heading into the field with their four-legged partners.

Prairie dog hunting provides a unique opportunity for dog owners in Wyoming. This activity doesn’t require a hunting license or have bag limits, making it accessible to many. However, hunters must still follow general safety guidelines and respect property boundaries when pursuing prairie dogs with their canine companions.

Understanding Hunting with Dogs in Wyoming

Wyoming has specific regulations regarding hunting with dogs. Dogs are permitted for pursuing certain animals but prohibited for others.

Hunters can use dogs to hunt bobcats and mountain lions in Wyoming. However, canines are not allowed for hunting most other game species.

Prairie dog hunting is popular in Wyoming. No license is required to hunt prairie dogs, as they are classified as non-game animals. There are no bag limits for prairie dogs.

Hunters cannot use vehicles or shoot from public roads when hunting prairie dogs. This helps ensure safe and ethical hunting practices.

While dogs aren’t typically used for prairie dog hunting, it remains a common activity in Wyoming. Hunters often practice long-range shooting skills on these small targets.

For big game like mule deer, hunting with dogs is not permitted in Wyoming. Hunters must rely on other methods to pursue these animals during designated seasons.

Private land access is important for prairie dog hunting opportunities in Wyoming. Some outfitters lease land specifically for guided prairie dog hunts.

Planning Your Prairie Dog Hunt

Successful prairie dog hunting in Wyoming requires careful planning and preparation. Timing, location selection, and proper gear are crucial factors for an enjoyable and productive hunt.

Choosing the Right Time of Year

Prairie dog hunting is best from late spring through summer. June to August offers prime conditions, with prairie dogs most active above ground. Summer hunts provide long daylight hours and pleasant weather.

Early mornings and late afternoons typically see increased prairie dog activity. Plan hunts during these peak times for optimal results. Avoid midday hunts in extreme heat, as prairie dogs may retreat underground to escape high temperatures.

Selecting the Ideal Location

Wyoming offers excellent prairie dog hunting opportunities on both public and private lands. Popular areas include Laramie and Wheatland regions. Private ranches often provide access to large, undisturbed prairie dog towns.

Research potential hunting spots in advance. Contact local outfitters or the Wyoming Game & Fish Department for information on active prairie dog colonies. Scout locations beforehand to assess population density and terrain.

Consider wind direction and shooting lanes when selecting a spot within a prairie dog town. Position yourself downwind to minimize scent detection.

Required Gear and Preparation

Essential gear for prairie dog hunting includes:

• Accurate rifles (preferably multiple calibers)
• High-quality optics (scope and binoculars)
• Shooting rest or bipod
• Plenty of ammunition (100-400 rounds per day)
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Water and snacks

Pack multiple rifles to switch between during extended shooting sessions. Bring ample ammunition, as high shot counts are common. Sharpen your shooting skills before the hunt, focusing on accuracy at various ranges.

Wear camouflage or earth-toned clothing to blend with surroundings. Comfortable, breathable attire is crucial for long days in the field. Don’t forget a first-aid kit and basic hunting tools.

Types of Prairie Dog Hunts Available

Prairie dog hunts in Wyoming offer diverse options for hunters seeking varmint shooting experiences. These hunts range from fully guided excursions to self-guided adventures on private lands.

Guided Prairie Dog Hunts

Outfitters like Bar-Nunn Hunting provide guided prairie dog hunts in Wyoming. These typically include:

• Expert guides familiar with local prairie dog towns
• Transportation to prime shooting locations
• Shooting tables and other equipment

Guided hunts often span 1-2 days. Hunters can expect to fire 100-400 rounds per day, depending on conditions and skill level.

Some outfitters offer lodging and meals as part of their packages. This allows hunters to focus solely on the hunt without worrying about logistics.

No license is required for prairie dog hunting in Wyoming, making it accessible to both residents and non-residents.

Self-Guided Expeditions

For more independent hunters, self-guided prairie dog hunts are available on private ranches. These hunts offer:

• Access to thousands of acres of prairie dog towns
• Flexibility in hunting times and methods
• Lower costs compared to guided hunts

Hunters are responsible for their own meals, lodging, and transportation on self-guided trips. Some ranches provide shooting tables or other basic amenities.

Self-guided hunts allow for continuous shooting throughout the day. Hunters can pace themselves and explore different areas at their leisure.

Many ranches offer additional activities like fishing in stocked ponds, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.

Logistical Arrangements

Planning a hunting trip with dogs in Wyoming requires careful consideration of accommodations, travel, and sustenance. Proper arrangements ensure a comfortable and successful expedition.

Lodging Options

Wyoming offers diverse lodging choices for hunters. Rustic hunting lodges provide an authentic experience, often situated near prime hunting grounds. Many feature dog-friendly policies and kennels for canine companions. Hotels and motels in nearby towns offer convenient alternatives with modern amenities. For a more immersive experience, campgrounds and RV parks allow hunters to stay closer to nature. Some outfitters provide all-inclusive packages with on-site lodging.

Hunters should book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons. It’s crucial to confirm pet policies and any additional fees for dogs.

Transportation and Access

Reliable transportation is essential for accessing hunting areas in Wyoming. Most hunters opt for sturdy 4×4 vehicles to navigate rugged terrain. Some lodges and outfitters offer shuttle services to hunting sites. When using personal vehicles, ensure they’re equipped for off-road conditions and varying weather.

Public lands often have designated access points and parking areas. Private land hunts may require special arrangements with landowners or guides. Hunters should obtain detailed maps and GPS coordinates for their chosen hunting locations.

Meals and Sustenance

Proper nutrition fuels long days in the field. Many hunting lodges provide full-service meal plans, catering to hunters’ dietary needs. For self-catering trips, nearby towns offer grocery stores and restaurants. Hunters often pack high-energy snacks and plenty of water for day hunts.

Some outfitters include field lunches in their packages. When camping, portable cooking equipment and non-perishable foods are essential. It’s important to store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife to camp.

Hunters should consider their dogs’ nutritional needs as well, packing appropriate food and treats for working canines.

Essential Shooting Techniques

Successful prairie dog hunting in Wyoming requires precision and skill. Mastering key marksmanship techniques and understanding long-range shooting principles are crucial for ethical and effective hunting.

Marksmanship for Prairie Dog Hunting

Accuracy is paramount when targeting small, agile prairie dogs. Shooters should focus on maintaining a stable shooting position, whether using shooting benches or prone positions. Proper breath control is essential – exhale halfway and hold before squeezing the trigger.

Trigger control plays a vital role. Apply steady, increasing pressure until the shot breaks. Avoid jerking or anticipating the shot, which can throw off aim.

Practice regularly with your chosen firearm to build familiarity and muscle memory. Dry-fire exercises at home can improve trigger control and sight alignment without ammunition costs.

Long Range Shooting Principles

Long-range shots on prairie dogs require understanding ballistics and environmental factors. Wind reading is crucial – learn to use mirage, grass movement, and dust to gauge wind speed and direction.

Proper range estimation is key. Use a quality rangefinder or learn to estimate distances using known-size objects in the field.

Adjust for bullet drop at longer ranges. Many scopes offer bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticles calibrated for specific cartridges. Alternatively, learn to use mil-dot or MOA reticles for holdover.

Consider atmospheric conditions. Elevation, temperature, and humidity affect bullet trajectory. Use a ballistic calculator to determine precise adjustments for your load.

Managing Expectations and Costs

Hunting with dogs in Wyoming requires careful budgeting and understanding of what’s included in outfitter packages. Costs can vary widely depending on the type of hunt and services provided. Knowing what to expect helps hunters plan effectively and avoid surprises.

Understanding Pricing Structures

Outfitters in Wyoming typically offer package deals for hunting with dogs. Prices range from $1,500 to $5,000 for multi-day hunts. This variation depends on factors like game species, hunt duration, and amenities provided. Some outfitters charge a daily rate, while others offer all-inclusive packages.

Hunters should inquire about:

• Base hunt cost
• License and tag fees (often separate)
• Equipment rental charges
• Transportation to and from hunting areas

Hidden charges can include gratuities for guides or fees for trophy preparation. It’s crucial to get a detailed breakdown of all costs before booking.

What’s Included in Your Hunt

Most Wyoming hunting packages with dogs cover essential services, but inclusions can differ between outfitters. Standard offerings usually encompass:

• Guide services
• Use of trained hunting dogs
• Basic lodging (cabins or tents)
• Transportation within the hunting area

Meals are often included, ranging from simple camp fare to gourmet options. Some outfitters provide airport pickup, while others expect hunters to arrange their own transportation to the lodge.

Equipment like firearms or specialized gear is typically not included. Hunters should clarify:

• Meal plans
• Lodging quality
• Guide-to-hunter ratio
• Dog handling expectations

By understanding these details, hunters can better align their expectations with the actual hunt experience in Wyoming.

Wildlife Conservation and Ethics

Hunting with dogs in Wyoming intersects with important wildlife conservation and ethical considerations. Responsible hunters play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting conservation efforts.

Prairie dog towns, which provide habitat for numerous species, require careful management. While some view prairie dogs as pests, their colonies support diverse ecosystems.

Mule deer populations are a key focus of conservation efforts in Wyoming. Hunters using dogs must be mindful of their impact on mule deer and other game animals during pursuits.

Ethical hunting practices emphasize fair chase principles and minimizing animal suffering. Properly trained hunting dogs can aid in tracking wounded game, potentially reducing wasted harvests.

Wyoming’s hunter education courses cover wildlife conservation, management, and hunter ethics. These programs aim to instill a strong conservation ethic in hunters using dogs and other methods.

Balancing hunting traditions with wildlife protection remains an ongoing challenge. Hunters must stay informed about regulations and best practices to ensure their activities support rather than hinder conservation goals.

Legal Aspects of Hunting with Dogs

Wyoming has specific regulations governing the use of dogs for hunting. State law prohibits using dogs to hunt, run, or harass big game animals, trophy game animals, protected animals, or furbearing animals.

There are exceptions to this general rule. Dogs may be used for certain types of hunting, such as bird hunting. However, hunters must be cautious not to allow their dogs to chase or disturb big game species while bird hunting.

Falconry with dogs is permitted in Wyoming. Hunters can use both falcons and dogs together, though restrictions apply regarding which animals can be pursued.

The law allows for the killing of dogs that are injuring big or trophy game animals. Game wardens may cite dog owners whose pets are found harassing wildlife.

Recently, Wyoming amended regulations to permit the use of leashed dogs for tracking wounded big game animals. This change aims to aid in the ethical recovery of injured wildlife.

Hunters should familiarize themselves with specific local and state regulations before taking dogs afield. Rules can vary depending on the species being hunted and the specific area.

Penalties may apply for violations of dog hunting laws. These can include fines and potential loss of hunting privileges.