Hunters discussing Area 76 - Copper Mountain in Wyoming highlight the challenges associated with the Type 2 license, emphasizing the importance of securing access to private land, as public land options for this permit are limited and not heavily populated with game. The Type 1 regular and special license draw odds can sometimes appear counterintuitive, with regular permits occasionally having better odds, possibly due to strategic applications aimed at beating point creep. Those who have hunted with a Type 2 permit note the difficulty of finding antelope on public land, advising potential hunters to have realistic expectations and prepare adequately. For those with questions about doe tags and points, it's crucial to note that doe hunts are separate and don’t require points, a common point of confusion.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Antelope | 70"-75" | 75"+ |
High
Low
This hunt area can be found in the central part of the state and just east of Thermopolis. Made up of high plains desert, this unit has a mix of private land, BLM and state land. The northern half of the unit has exceptional public access with a higher concentration of private lands being found to the south.
There is a lot of good general access to public land here, with a high success rate, making this a great area for DIY hunts. Hunters can also hire outfitters for access to private land.
This area has a lot of different types of grassy and desert-like open prairie with big basins, creek bottoms and rolling hills that are good for putting on stalks. There are also private ranch and farm lands near the Bighorn River that can bring in antelope from the other prairies in the area.
Public access in this unit is good, with several well-maintained roads and smaller two tracks. The gas and oil drilling that goes on here also creates access to roads in certain spots throughout the unit. You can gain access to private land through Walk-In access areas.
Vegetation here is made up of high desert prairie with sagebrush and grasslands. Some rocky bluffs, sagebrush, cedars and small trees can also be found in higher elevations in Copper Mountain and Lysite Mountain.
Thermopolis is the closest town to the unit and has a lot of lodging options. Grocery stores, gas stations and other amenities can be found here as well. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can also camp in remote spots in the area.
Roughly 519 square miles
56% public land
Elevations from 4,200-8,300 feet