Area 152 - Lower Hoback in Wyoming presents both opportunities and challenges for nonresident hunters. The decrease in nonresident tags makes drawing more competitive, but the area still offers potential if you're determined and prepared, especially with horses for tackling the rugged, snowy terrain. Those with 4 points might find Region H promising as it provides good hunting without a guide, especially avoiding the primarily wilderness areas that require one. Grizzly presence is a significant factor, with many hunters noting increased sightings and advising caution, especially if hunting in areas like Beaver Mountain where encounters have occurred. Overall, it's crucial to research thoroughly and prepare for challenging conditions to maximize hunting success in this unit.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 180"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 120"+ |
High
Low
Area 152 is mostly National Forest land with a few private ranches northwest of the area near Jackson Hole. Wilderness areas are also located in the central portion of this hunt area.For nonresidents, this area is part of Region H and tags drawn for this area are also valid in: 130, 138, 139, 140, 142, 146, 149, 150, 151, 153, 154, 155, 156.
This area has high mountain lakes and grass-covered mountain passes where bucks can be seen throughout the year. The southern portion of the area has experienced a reduction in deer numbers, but the area is recovering and large bucks are still harvested every year. The north end of the area runs into the wilderness and has large deer numbers, with trophy class bucks located throughout the area.
Canyon bottoms have knee-high grass flats and large creeks that run through them. This area is mostly covered in conifer and aspen trees with sagebrush ridges that run up to the treeline. The terrain above the treeline is made up of rock fields with scattered pine trees and grass pockets.
Wilderness
Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.
Forest Service roads take hunters deep into the mountains and to trailheads where hunters can travel to the backcountry with prime deer locations. Some restricted travel is in the north around private property and into the wilderness area.
Grass flats are located above the treeline and in the bottoms of canyons with sagebrush ridges that run from the bottom to the tops of mountains. Conifer forests dominate the landscape with large pockets of aspen trees and willow thickets.
Hunters can camp on Forest Service land in designated camping areas with no permit required. Lodging can also be found just north of the unit in Jackson Hole or south of the unit in Pinedale. Some private ranches will rent out small hunting cabins.
Roughly 403 square miles
92.1% public land
Elevations from 6,204-10,425 feet
31.3% Wilderness