The conversation reflects a mix of inquiries, shared experiences, and observations about hunting in Wyoming's Area 36 and other regions. Important takeaways include the distinction between general and limited quota tags, which hunters must understand to avoid conflicts with season dates and unit-specific regulations. Terrain and access are crucial aspects in Area 36, with challenges presented by private land boundaries and unpredictable weather conditions affecting road accessibility. Hunters are advised to utilize mapping applications to navigate private/public lands effectively and consider using UTVs for better mobility. Additionally, there's a suggestion to explore how 'limited areas' with good public access but lower draw requirements might offer strategic opportunities for hunters seeking higher success rates.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-130" | 130"+ |
High
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This unit can be found northeast of Riverton and includes Copper Mountain Wilderness Study Area, and Boysen State Park. Thousands of acres of BLM land are in the area, and a lot of oil and gas wells are found here, as well.
Whitetails can be found here, but there are not a lot. Mature mule deer bucks can be found in the mountains or in the low elevation grasslands.
There are a lot of rocky slopes with ridges and draws in this area that are found near the Boysen Reservoir. Wind River Canyon is steep, with rocky walls and cuts through Owl Creek and Bridger/Copper Mountain ranges. There are also a lot of rolling prairies east of Wind River.
Hunters should be prepared for rain and snow. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended to help get to the Wilderness Study Area and Lander BLM Regional Office. Thousands of acres of BLM land can be reached off of county roads, oil/gas service roads and two tracks.
Rangeland with sagebrush, buffalo and blue grama grass make up most of this area’s vegetation. Mountains and ridges have scattered stands of pine, limited groves of aspen and acres of juniper. Willows and cottonwoods grow near the creek bottoms here.
Riverton has motels, restaurants, RV campgrounds, medical facilities and 24/7 gas stations. Shoshoni, next to U.S. Highway 26 has limited fuel, food and lodging.
Roughly 904 square miles
69.8% public land
Elevations from 4,780-8,310 feet