If you could hunt region G or H in the Gros Ventre wilderness

[elkocd]

Starting the plan for a deer hunt with my son who is a NR. Last year was my first year as a WY res and I had a type 9 elk tag so I didn't get to hunt the general deer season down south. Ended up hunting the general up here around Cody. He has enough NR points to draw G or H so I'm trying to decide if I want to take him on a wilderness hunt in the Gros Ventre or hunt G with all the residents and NRs. I lived in Alpine for a summer and have spent time in both areas, but I've always been much more of an elk hunter so I spent most of my time looking at elk and not focused on deer. So my question for you guys that are much better deer hunters would you rather hunt G if you could or hunt the wilderness in H with no real NR competion? I always lean towards less people, but also want him to have a good hunt. I will have horses so we can and will get as deep as necessary .

 

[Stretcher_Jockey]

Admittedly having not spent time in either, the scenario you laid out with H sounds a lot more enjoyable to me.

 

[nrpate05]

I can't really help, but I have hunted elk in deer region H the past couple of years and have seen a few giant bucks. None of them were in the wilderness, but one was pretty close to the boundary of the Gros Ventre. Depending on this winter, 2026 should be a really good year to hunt deer. I've seen some unreal bucks come out of the Wyoming Range this year as well.

That makes your decision easier, right?!

 

[2rocky]

Being able to cover a lot of ground in the Wilderness is important because it is so well known that folks will get into a basin early set up a tent and sit on good bucks until opening day. You need to have a Plan B if you run on to that situation. I would not expect less competition in the Wilderness than elsewhere in either unit. The folks who consistently kill good bucks are residents who spend all summer scouting deer and know the country like the back of their hand. I think if you commit to a summer of scouting you will answer your own questions.

 

[PoleX]

Depending on this winter, 2026 should be a really good year to hunt deer. I've seen some unreal bucks come out of the Wyoming Range this year as well.

I hope your right about that, I'm planning to cash in some points and spend some time in G next season.

I like checking out new areas so for me, I'd burn the points on G then start building for H. I don't think either is a bad choice. I'd also consider what is easier to scout and spend time in. H might check that box better if you're in Cody. I've spent more time dreaming about Wyoming high country deer hunting than any other hunt.

 

[rogerthat]

G is a better hunt as far as seeing numbers of bucks…and unfortunately hunters too. I would do G if you have the points

 

[appaloosa]

The greatest misconception about hunting in Wyoming is that there are somehow more and bigger bucks and bulls inside of designated wilderness. The only consistent difference is an increase in rocks and ice.