Hunters discussing Upper Gooseberry Creek, Wyoming, highlight the importance of being alert for grizzly encounters, a factor that should not deter hunting but warrants caution. Success rates in this unit appear modest at 38%, influenced by weather and deer migration patterns. Access to the unit is generally good with public roads available, though hunters are encouraged to explore beyond roads into sage flats and higher elevations for better deer sightings. Recent experiences suggest that glassing from buttes during early mornings and late afternoons yields success, with persistence being key, as exemplified by a hunter who reported success after careful strategy and patience.
Unit 118 is located south-west of Meeteetse. Rugged BLM land makes up the majority of the unit with a small section National Forest in the south-west corner. This is a limited quota area for both residents and nonresidents.
Being a limited quota area, there will be low hunter densities on this hunt. The two week late October season will let you hunt quality bucks on their migration routes from the high country to the lower ground. Whitetail bucks are found in low elevations.
The larger portion of the unit is a series of rough canyons with sagebrush. Towards the western end of the unit are larger canyons and drainages leading up into the high country. A few ranches can be found scattered throughout the unit as well.
There is good public access throughout the unit on BLM ground and National Forest access points. Gooseberry Creek Road will be the main access point. Other access roads and small two track four-wheel drive roads off of them are found all throughout the unit. Expect oil field activity throughout portions of the unit.
The lower elevations are sagebrush, prairie grasses and a few agriculture crop fields. The sagebrush and prairie grasses hold true most of the way up in elevation. There are conifer forests and aspen patches in mid to high elevations.
Meeteetse is located on the eastern side of the unit and has a gas station with basic grocery items, as well as a couple of bar/restaurants in town. Cody is 30 minutes north of Meeteetse and has a number of places to eat, hotels, grocery stores and other services. Camping on state land in the state is not allowed, but hunters can camp on any BLM land unless specified otherwise.
Roughly 205 square miles
62.9% public land
Elevations from 5,500-10,500 feet
Using maps that show land ownership is highly recommended
ATVs are recommended
Wet and snowy conditions make for slick and muddy roads; four-wheel drive and tire chains are recommended for both conditions