Erick Mares looks forward to guiding in the Greys River valley every year. From the breathtaking scenery to the detachment from city life, there’s something about the outdoors that always feels like home to him.

Born and raised in Douglas, Wyoming, Erick is a long-time hunter and avid outdoorsman. He has proudly worked for SNS for almost 12 years. For him, it’s the people he meets that makes all of the difference — especially in the Greys River valley. “At this camp, the people are extremely diverse. We get avid hunters, those who enjoy the outdoors, and people who hunt simply because they are able to.” It’s a fun, dynamic combo and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Erick also loves the sense of camaraderie and lightheartedness at this camp — “The guides at this camp are also great. We laugh more than we probably should!”

Erick guides out of the Jackson Hole Outfitters camp quite a bit; this camp is SNS’s second camp in the Greys River valley. It has comfortable wall tents, furnished with snug beds, lighting, and heat. Although the Jackson Hole Outfitters camp is surrounded by the wilderness (noises and all), the sleeping and lounging areas are charming and secure. Erick also guides out of Box Y — another beautiful camp. When the weather is less than ideal, the Box Y lodge is where you want to be. Hunters have individual cabins, but the main lodge is equipped with plenty of seating and a roaring fire.

When asked what his favorite hunt to guide is, Erick will tell you, “Mule deer out of either Greys River camps.” Chasing mule deer in the Greys River is quite the thrill. Plus, this region is by far the best in Wyoming — it is listed in the top five in the world for a trophy mule deer. However, during the off season, he’s diligently working on his own outfitting business, High Pine Outfitters. There, mountain lions are the main hunts. On any given mountain lion hunt, he utilizes 3-4 dogs (they have seven total). Erick and his family also have a ranch in his hometown, Douglas. He enjoys spending his time ranching with his wife and two daughters.

After a long day on the ranch or in the valley, you can find Erick grilling up a few elk steaks for his family. His recipe is simple: let the steaks marinate in the fridge (once thawed) for most of the afternoon. For the marinade, use some olive oil, a bit of soy sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic. He likes to pair his grilled elk with a baked potato and seasonal veggies.

For more information about hunting with SNS Outfitter and Guides, you can click here to request a brochure, or you can call us at; 307.266.4229.