Hunters interested in Area 111, Elk Fork, Wyoming, should be aware of potential mapping issues and a lack of display for non-resident tag odds, which GOHUNT is actively working to address. A self-guided hunt in early November revealed that mule deer are often found on private land, particularly in cut hay fields and meadows near rivers, with significant hiking required to access public land, involving elevation gains of 2300-2700 ft. Despite the abundance of deer tracks in various terrains, the challenge lies in finding legal bucks on accessible land. Hunters planning a guided mule deer hunt in late November should be prepared for a tough but rewarding experience, paying attention to deer movement patterns and the challenges of private land access.
Unit 111 consists of National Forest and Wilderness areas throughout the majority of the area. Some lower portions at the eastern end of the unit are private agriculture fields. This area has a lot of trail heads, easily accessible off of the main highway. Trail heads are heavily used by outfitters with horses.For nonresidents, this area is part of Region F and tags drawn for this area are also valid in: 105, 106, 110, 112, 113, 114, 115.
Mule deer and whitetail can both be found in the area. Mule deer can be found throughout all elevations, but this area is known for its migration routes in late October and early December. Go to the lower elevations in the east and sit in a tree stand or ground blind to have a chance at a large whitetail buck.
Most of the unit consists of adjacent drainages draining into the Shoshone River running along the main highway. The drainages have steep hillsides with loose rock and rock cliffs scattered along the hillsides. Gaining elevation and being able to endure the cold while behind your optics will greatly increase your odds of finding a trophy mule deer. The lower lands in the eastern portion of the unit are fairly flat, with private agriculture fields.
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.
There are a large number of trailheads in the unit accessing different drainages. Most trailheads are located right off the highway and require minimal off pavement travel to access. Nonresidents are required to have a guide in wilderness areas. Motorized travel is not permitted inside of wilderness areas.
A fairly large portion of the unit is an old burn. Along the creek and river bottoms are willow patches and sage brush leading up to prairie grass hills and conifer forests. The portions that have been burned are great for sitting and glassing into for a big buck who thinks he is protected.
Camping is permitted inside of the National Forest area with no permit required. Lodging, grocery stores and restaurants are located on the east side of the unit in Cody.
Roughly 433 square miles
87.5% public land
Elevations from 5,454-11,084 feet
42.7% Wilderness
Wet and snowy conditions make for slick and muddy roads; four-wheel drive and tire chains are recommended for these conditions