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 suggest getting some saddle time or riding lessons prior to your hunt. Leg streng is essential in order to mount your horse and ride properly. 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 and brining all of the items on the camp specific equipment list provided to you upon booking your hunt. Hunters who arrive well-prepared will be able to adapt to changing conditions and 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.

Shooting Practice

Rifle 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 100 to 300 yards. Most shots average around 150-350 yards, but on some elk hunts, be prepared for longer shots.

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. You can find the recommended gear list on the individual hunt page on our website.

On each gear list you will find:

• Weather-ready clothing layers & outerwear
• Blaze orange requirements
• Boots & footwear - (view our hunting boot guide)
• 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. A hat alone satisifes Wyoming law. Wyoming allows the use of camoflage patterns. Only hunters are required to wear fluorescent orange or pink, guides are exempt. 

Montana

At least 400 square inches of fluorescent orange, visible from all sides, above the waist. Hunters and guides are both required to wear orange while hunting. 

⚠️ A hat alone is not enough in Montana to satisfy state law.

⚠️ Montana DOES NOT allow camoflage patterns.

Always check current regulations before your hunt.

Firearms & Optics Recommendations

Western hunts often require longer shots and changing conditions. Here are a few recommendations to help you get the most out of your hunt:

• A quality rifle topped with a variable-power scope and a light-gathering objective will perform well across a wide range of hunting situations.
• Bring a good pair of binoculars built for field use. Quality optics can make a significant difference when glassing for game.
• A rangefinder can be a valuable tool and is encouraged if you have one. Your guide will have one available as well.
• Spotting scopes are optional. If you already own one and enjoy using it, feel free to bring it along.

Horseback Hunting Tips

SNS Outfitter & Guides has been offering horseback hunts for more than 40 years. Our horses allow us to access remote wilderness areas while providing a true Western hunting experience.

Many of our hunts involve several hours in the saddle each day through mountainous terrain. To help you enjoy your hunt, we recommend starting a leg conditioning program well in advance of your trip. If you're new to horseback riding, a few lessons before your hunt can greatly improve your confidence and comfort in the saddle.