Based on the insights gathered from various hunters, Area 98 in Boulder, Wyoming, presents a challenging yet potentially rewarding elk hunting experience. Many emphasize the importance of timing your hunt, with some hunters recommending the last two weeks of the season when elk may move to lower elevations if snow pushes them down. The terrain can be difficult, particularly after the 2020 windstorm that downed many trees, complicating navigation, especially near the Big Sandy area. Hunters suggest that non-residents may face difficulties due to the wilderness boundary restrictions, and having a guide can significantly boost success rates. Predators like grizzlies and wolves are present, though not prevalent enough to override the focus on elk strategy. Overall, the consensus leans toward using this unit for guided hunts, especially for non-residents, to maximize opportunities amidst the unit's wilderness challenges.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 290"-320" | 320"+ |
High
Low
Unit 98 is located in Western Wyoming north of Highway 28. The area is known for mature bulls and good success rates. The terrain here allows hunters to glass a lot of area from vantage points that transition from low desert shrub to the high mountains and wilderness. The nonresident DIY hunter will have to pay attention to the wilderness boundary, but there is miles of country outside of the boundary. So no shortage of good areas to hunt.
Good populations of elk reside within this unit. The bigger elk typically come from the more rugged and remote locations. Those willing to put in the work will most likely have a successful hunt.
The area is made up of long, deep canyons and sagebrush flats. The Wind River Mountain Range provides hunters with vantage points for glassing and locating elk herds.
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.
The majority of this area is BLM land and ranch lands with good public access. Most roads are marked with BLM signs. The area transitions from BLM to National Forest lands in the north part of the unit. ATV's and UTV's can be helpful, especially in wet conditions. Four-wheel drive and chains are recommended during late season hunts when snow is likely. Wilderness can be found here and no motorized travel is allowed in Wyoming wilderness. Nonresidents must be accompanied by a guide in wilderness areas while hunting.
The majority of the area is covered by sagebrush, bitterbrush, juniper, pinyon and prairie grass. The higher mountains have aspen, willows and conifers. Willows and cottonwood trees can be found on ranches and creek bottoms.
Hunters can camp remotely on BLM and Forest Service land with no permit required. Lodging at multiple motels can be located just north in Pinedale and west in Big Piney and La Barge.
Roughly 1933 square miles
93% public land
Elevations from 6,500-11,300 feet
7.7% Wilderness