Hunting in Area 105, Beartooth, Wyoming, offers a compelling experience, notably due to its rugged terrain and presence of wildlife such as grizzlies and wolves, as encountered by hunters like the one detailing their hunt. The late season tag proved challenging as many bucks had moved away from the high country, though some notable bucks, including a potential 185-class, were observed with the help of a guide and horses. The area is characterized by crisp temperatures, a windy climate, and moderate pre-rut activity, with does being most active in the early and late hours. For those considering new hunts, understanding the wilderness area regulations and managing risks associated with local wildlife and terrain could enhance the experience, especially during earlier archery seasons where pressure and grizzly presence are of concern.
Throughout the majority of the unit are National Forest and Wilderness areas, with private land in the lower eastern end. The central and western sections are located in the Shoshone National Forest.For nonresidents, this area is part of Region F and tags drawn for this area are also valid in: 106, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115.
This unit has good access with a large number of deer. A wide variety of terrain and elevation makes this unit a good choice, allowing you to hunt different terrain throughout the seasons.
Lower elevations consist of private agriculture fields and have fairly moderate terrain with little canyons and pockets. The mid elevations have long, steep canyons and consist of rugged terrain. The above-timberline high country consists of shale slides and rocky canyon walls.
Wilderness
Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.
A number of trailheads can be found throughout the area. Although these trailheads see outfitter horse traffic, they are great access points. Some Forest Service maintained roads are also found in the unit. The lower elevations with private ground will be tough to access and maps displaying land ownership will be handy. Some Wilderness areas here restrict nonresident access.
The lower eastern portions of the unit consists of privately owned agriculture hay fields. Most of the high country is made of conifer forests, sagebrush flats, prairie grass ridge lines, wildflower fields and nutrient rich grasses above timberline.
Camping is permitted inside of the National Forest with no permit required. Lodging, grocery stores and restaurants are located southeast of the unit in Cody, and also north east of the unit in Red Lodge, MT.
Roughly 358 square miles
82.4% public land
Elevations from 6,574-9,583 feet
10.3% Wilderness
Wet and snowy conditions make for slick and muddy roads; four-wheel drive and tire chains are recommended for both conditions