Spot and Stalk: A Classic Western Hunting Experience

Western hunting styles often raise questions for those more familiar with tree stands, blinds, or shooting houses—setups designed for ambush hunting over food plots or travel corridors. In those scenarios, it’s a waiting game: when your target presents a shot, the hunt is over.

But out west, a different approach dominates—and it’s called “Spot and Stalk.”

Hunting Pronghorn Antelope in Wyoming

Wyoming’s vast prairies make it the ideal setting for spot-and-stalk hunting, especially when targeting pronghorn antelope. This style of hunting often begins by covering large expanses of terrain in a pickup truck on two-track roads—an entirely new experience for many hunters.

The goal? Glass as many animals as possible in a single day using binoculars and spotting scopes. Once a trophy buck is located, the real challenge begins: the stalk. 

The Stalk: Where the Hunt Comes Alive

Pronghorn antelope are known for their exceptional eyesight, which makes sneaking up on them a serious test of skill. The stalk starts by leaving the truck at a safe distance—far enough that the animals won’t spot it. From there, hunters use every fold in the terrain to stay hidden.

Unlike elk or mule deer, where scent plays a major role, antelope rely primarily on their vision to detect threats. That means your movement and silhouette are the top concerns.

Crawling, Cactus, and the Final Approach

As you close the distance, crawling becomes essential. You’ll almost always be stalking entire herds, which means dozens of eyes scanning for danger. Staying low, staying slow, and using terrain is critical.

This is also where gear matters—a pair of leather gloves and even knee pads can make a huge difference. Expect cactus, sharp rocks, and thorny terrain during the final crawl.

The Shot: Be Ready, Be Sure

Once you’re within range, take your time. Make sure you’ve got the right buck in your scope—it’s not uncommon for bucks to swap places or group up during the stalk. Use shooting sticks to steady your rifle and give yourself the best chance at an ethical, well-placed shot.

Slow your breathing, settle in, click off the safety, and squeeze the trigger. Then, take a moment to enjoy the success—and don’t forget to take photos to remember this incredible experience.

Final Thoughts

Hunting antelope in Wyoming using the spot and stalk method is as thrilling as it is rewarding. It’s a true test of patience, skill, and awareness—everything that makes western big game hunting unforgettable.