Louisiana Sportsman

Many western states offer great draw hunting opportunities for non-resident hunters. (Photo by Pete Rogers)

Expand your hunting range with these tips

If you are like many of us who dream of heading to the Midwest to hunt giant whitetails, but have not taken the plunge because the task seems daunting, stay tuned. It is not as difficult as you may think. Here are some quick tips to consider when planning your out-of-state hunt.

Pick your species

While this may seem obvious, the preparation for hunting whitetails in Kansas versus hunting elk in Wyoming are different. The first thing you have to decide is what animal you want to hunt.

Set a budget

After you decide what you want to hunt, you have to decide how you will pay for it. Do you want to do it yourself or hire an outfitter? Either way, you need a budget. Some outfitters for whitetails charge more than I paid for my truck; others less than a moped. If you want to DIY, the cost is much less, but so too is the success rate. Set your budget accordingly. If you are choosing to hire an outfitter and guide, many of these reputable outfitters are booked years in advance. Contact them, get references, and pay your deposit. Most will refund your deposit if you do not draw your tag.

Don’t forget hidden costs that always occur on out-of-state hunts. A recent hunt to Wyoming for antelope saw several unexpected fees for the trip. I needed a cash deposit for the taxidermist. The rural convenience store we stopped at for fuel didn’t take credit cards; it was cash only. This happens all the time. Budget 10 to 15 percent extra for the unexpected expenses.

Pick your crew

More than one friendship has been tarnished over an out-of-state hunt. Whether it is arguments over costs, lodging, tags, etc., make sure everyone in your crew is on the same page and understands what is expected. I have seen too many arguments in hunt camps over the smallest things because these were not discussed in advance. Getting everyone on the same page and making sure each person understands their responsibilities is critical.

On a trip to Colorado for a DIY elk hunt with four other guys, we took the time in advance to build meal plans, make cooking assignments for each of us, and also determine how we would drive, who would sleep in which tent, and how we would pay for everything. Some items were paid in advance, others as we went, and still others upon return. It went smoothly due to the extra effort to communicate, in advance, what we were buying and paying for. Everything was split five ways, and we had no issues.

Set expectations

Whether you are on a DIY or guided hunt, your expectations need to be realistic. Personally, I have hunted in 18 different states for different species. My expectations are low. As a DIY hunter, my goal is a “reasonable representative” of the area. If I am hunting where a 130-inch whitetail is more common than a 160-inch whitetail, I set my expectations appropriately. My personal objective is to enjoy the hunt and experience, and if I get a good animal, that is a bonus. Your expectations may be different, but make them realistic. Same goes for guided hunts. The guided hunts increase your odds of seeing animals, but you still have to do your part to make it happen.

Apply

Very few states have over-the-counter tags for decent areas. Many have lotteries for coveted tags. It took me 7 years to draw a mule deer tag in Wyoming. Go to the state you want to hunt now and look at their tag application process. Make sure you do not miss the window to apply for your tag. Many states have tag applications beginning in January.

Many other factors should be considered, but these simple tips can help you take the plunge. For more information, check out my book, Planning an Out of State Hunt, with 20 tips to make your hunt more successful. It is available in paperback or Kindle at Amazon.com.