Wyoming is a hunter’s paradise, with some of the best hunting opportunities in the country. With its vast expanses of wilderness, rugged mountains, and diverse ecosystems, Wyoming is home to a wide variety of big game species that make for exciting and challenging hunts. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 5 animals to hunt in Wyoming, along with some interesting statistics about each species.

1. Elk

Wyoming is famous for its elk hunting, and for good reason. The state is home to the largest elk herd in the world, with an estimated population of over 120,000 animals. Elk hunting is a popular pastime in Wyoming, with hunters from all over the country coming to the state to pursue these majestic animals. In 2020, Wyoming issued over 48,000 elk licenses, with a success rate of 38%. The average size of a bull elk in Wyoming is around 6×6 feet, with a weight of over 700 pounds.

2. Pronghorn Antelope

The pronghorn antelope is another popular game species in Wyoming. With their distinctive horns and lightning-fast speed, pronghorn make for a challenging hunt. Wyoming is home to the largest population of pronghorn in North America, with an estimated 500,000 animals. In 2020, Wyoming issued over 50,000 pronghorn licenses, with a success rate of 85%. The average size of a pronghorn buck in Wyoming is around 13-15 inches in horn length.

3. Mule Deer

Mule deer are a popular game species in Wyoming, with their impressive antlers and elusive nature. Wyoming is home to some of the biggest mule deer in the country, with bucks weighing up to 300 pounds and sporting antlers over 30 inches in length. In 2020, Wyoming issued over 40,000 mule deer licenses, with a success rate of 76%. The average size of a mule deer buck in Wyoming is around 24 inches in antler spread.

4. Bighorn Sheep

Bighorn sheep are a highly coveted game species in Wyoming, with their majestic horns and impressive size. Wyoming is home to several populations of bighorn sheep, including the largest herd in the country in the Whiskey Mountain area. In 2020, Wyoming issued just over 300 bighorn sheep licenses, with a success rate of 84%. The average size of a bighorn sheep ram in Wyoming is around 170 pounds.

5. Black Bear

Black bears are found throughout Wyoming, and hunting them is a thrilling experience. Wyoming has a healthy population of black bears, with an estimated 4,000 animals. In 2020, Wyoming issued just over 4,000 black bear licenses, with a success rate of 38%. The average size of a black bear in Wyoming is around 300 pounds.

Wyoming is a hunter’s paradise, with a wealth of game species to pursue. From elk and pronghorn to mule deer, bighorn sheep, and black bears, Wyoming has something for every hunter. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich hunting heritage, Wyoming is a must-visit destination for hunters from around the world. So grab your gear, head to Wyoming, and experience the thrill of the hunt in one of America’s wildest and most beautiful states.