- GOHUNT maps are recommended to help navigate public and private lands
- Securing access to private lands can greatly increase the odds of success on this hunt
- Quality optics can make a big difference
Species | General Size | Trophy Potential |
---|
Elk | 290"-310" | 320"+ |
The larger unit is found in the extreme northwest corner of the state and lies along the Wyoming and South Dakota state lines. This is one of the more notable elk units in the state and this unit has been sought after by applicants for years. A great distribution of public lands are found in this unit, but generally speaking, most elk activity occurs on private lands. Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime harvest for residents, many lucky tag holders opt to hire outfitters to ensure private access.
Bulls can grow quite large in this area but the lack of public hunting opportunities can make things tough. Consider hiring an outfitter to ensure private access to lands holding elk.
Most of this area is composed of a rolling prairie landscape and brushy coulees. Agricultural areas dot the landscape but most of this unit is untouched and can provide some excellent hunting opportunities if elk are present. Many creek beds wind themselves through the landscape creative breaks in the terrain that are excellent for spot and stalk adventures.
Typical prairie grasses and shrubs dominate most of the undeveloped areas. Creek bottoms with see a higher distribution of willows, cottonwoods, and pines. Stands of mature hardwoods will often be found in and around agricultural areas.
Public access is great in this unit, but elk encounters on public land are limited and hard to count on. Successfully filling a tag can be done on public grounds, but with this being a once-in-a-lifetime harvest, hunters are generally encouraged to seek private access through themselves, by paying trespass fees, or to go through an outfitter. Public lands are scattered throughout the unit but the highest concentrations will be found north of Highway 20.
For additional options, hunters can also apply for special access permits to hunt in the historic Fort Robinson State Park. The park grants access to 22,000 acres of huntable land.
Modern lodging is available in any of the bigger towns in the unit, plus there is enough public land that hunters can opt for a primitive camp, if desired. Due to the nature of this hunt and many tag holders going with an outfitter, most lodging and accommodations are generally taken care of.
Roughly 1191 sq. miles
20% Public land