Hunt Prep

Get in Hunting Shape

Physical Conditioning for Western Hunts

Wyoming and Montana’s terrain is beautiful but rugged. While we use horses and 4x4s to access hunting areas, all of our hunts involve walking—sometimes in steep, rocky, or uneven country. Hunters who arrive in shape have a distinct advantage when it comes to harvesting a trophy.

We recommend building endurance through hiking, cardio, and leg-strengthening exercises. Most of our clients come from lower elevations, so keep in mind it takes about three days to acclimate. If possible, arrive a little early to adjust and enjoy the scenery.

If you’re booked on a horseback hunt, we strongly suggest getting some saddle time beforehand. A conditioning program started well ahead of your hunt will help you perform better in the field and recover faster after long days.

Plan for Western Weather

Weather in Wyoming and Montana can change quickly and can have a significant impact on your hunting experience, both positively and negatively. Conditions may range from warm, sunny days to snow, wind, or sudden temperature drops — sometimes all within the same week or even the same day.

Please understand that weather conditions are beyond our control. No additional hunting days or refunds will be provided due to weather-related impacts, lost hunting opportunities, area closures, or season closures. Any additional expenses for lodging, meals, travel, or related costs incurred under these circumstances are the responsibility of the client and not SNS Outfitter & Guides.

We strongly recommend packing versatile, weather-ready layers and being mentally prepared to hunt in changing conditions. Hunters who arrive flexible and well-prepared tend to have the best overall experience.

Hunter Safety Requirements

• Wyoming: Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1966
• Montana: Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1985
• The minimum age to hunt big game in both states is 12

Wyoming does not require proof of hunter safety when applying, but you must carry your certificate in the field. Montana does require you to submit your hunter safety number during the license application process.

Both states honor certifications from other U.S. states and Canadian provinces.

Practice Your Shot

Shooting Skills for Field Conditions

One of the biggest factors in a successful hunt is your shooting ability, and that starts with practice. Well before your hunt, spend time at the range sighting in your rifle and working on real-world shooting positions like sitting, prone, and offhand.

Most field shots are taken from the sitting position, so tripod shooting sticks or a bipod with extendable legs are excellent tools to steady your aim. Prone shots are also common and provide outstanding stability when you rest your rifle on a backpack, rock, or bipod.

Plan to fire at least 100–200 rounds at distances ranging from 50 to 350 yards. Most shots average around 200 yards, but on some elk hunts, you may shoot over 300 yards.

Practice with the same gear you’ll bring—tripod sticks, bipods, optics, and packs. Confidence and preparation make all the difference.

Gear Up for Your Western Trophy Hunt

Packing for a western big game hunt is different than your average trip. Each guided hunt with SNS Outfitter & Guides comes with a specific gear checklist tailored to the location, species, and season.

Once your hunt is booked, we’ll mail you a detailed packing list and link the correct gear list on your specific hunt page.

• Weather-ready clothing layers & outerwear
• Blaze orange requirements
• Boots & footwear
• Optics, packs & personal gear
• Medications & camp essentials

⚠️ CPAP users: Double-check whether your camp has electricity.

Blaze Orange Requirements

Wyoming

At least one visible exterior garment of fluorescent orange or pink during firearm seasons.

Montana

At least 400 square inches of fluorescent orange, visible from all sides, above the waist.

⚠️ A hat alone is not enough in Montana.

Always check current regulations before your hunt.

Horseback Hunting Tips

SNS has been offering horseback hunts for more than 35 years. These hunts provide access to remote terrain and a classic western experience, but they require preparation.

You’ll ride in mountainous terrain, sometimes for hours. We recommend practicing basic riding beforehand and wearing comfortable boots with a heel.