Meet the Guides: Deer and Antelope Hunting Guide Jason Hill
SNS is extremely proud of its team of hunting guides and employees, and Jason Hill is a perfect example of why. Jason has been guiding for SNS for 15 years, and has a wealth of hunting knowledge. SNS is an employee-owned company and we are proud that Jason is one of our owners, helping direct the vision and future of this outfit.
We recently sat down with Jason to discuss his thoughts on mule deer and antelope hunting, and to hear his tips for hunters. Here is what Jason had to say:
Q: Jason, which hunts do you guide for SNS?
Jason: I guide antelope and mule deer hunts in the southeastern part of the state (hunt number five in the brochure). I am the camp manager for that particular hunt. I also guide mule deer hunts in Montana (hunt number six), Whitetail hunts in Wyoming (hunt number four), and the two-state combo hunt (hunt number 11).
Q: If you had to pick a favorite hunt, which would it be?
Jason: Of course they are all fun, but if I had to choose, I would say that the hunt number five is my favorite. It’s a smaller camp. We usually only have four to eight hunters at a time there. We have a nice camp facility, which sits in a great spot down in some cottonwood trees. And that ranch is full of history. The Oregon trail runs through the ranch, and there are a number of old homesteads. I really enjoy sharing that with our hunters and I think it adds to the experience.
Q: If you could give hunters one important tip for antelope hunts, what would it be?
Jason: When it comes to antelope hunting, I think persistence has to be a key element. When you find that buck that you want, it can take some real determination to get him. Sometimes it works out on that first stalk. Other times, you may end up chasing him for a long time. For me, the most rewarding hunts are the ones when we set our sights on a specific buck, and then finally make the connection. If it doesn’t work out at first, keep your spirits up and keep hunting hard.
Q: What advice would you give to hunters on a mule deer hunt?
Jason: I think it’s important to be ready to take that shot at any point in your hunt. I hear from a lot of guys that they are hesitant to kill an animal on the first day. But depending on weather and hunting conditions, your best opportunity may come on the first morning of the first day. I often tell hunters, the deer doesn’t know it’s the first day of your hunt. If the opportunity is there, take it.
I think it is also important to listen to your hunting guide. Our guides know this country and they know what kind of quality and numbers to expect. If they say, “I think we can do better,” trust him. Or if he says, “I think we should take that buck,” really listen to your guide’s advice. They won’t steer you wrong.
Q: When you’re not guiding for SNS, what do you do?
Jason: I am a captain for the fire department in Casper. Then on my off days from the fire department, I do construction work with a fellow fireman and guide at BCS Construction. We build houses, finish basements, decks, and a little bit of everything.
My wife Cindy and I have been married for 14 years and we have been together for 20. We have three kids – our girls are 11 and eight, and our son is four. I love taking my kids hunting and fishing any chance I get. They come out and visit me at camp every once in a while, so if you are hunting with me, there’s a good chance you’ll get to meet my family.
Of course I love to hunt on my free time too. I enjoy hunting for elk, antelope and mule deer. I travel quite a bit for whitetail hunting and have been able to kill some pretty good whitetails. I also do quite a bit of upland bird hunting with my pointing black lab, Tess. She goes with me everywhere.
We would like to thank Jason for taking the time to share with us some of his passion for hunting in Wyoming. If you have any questions about hunts with SNS Outfitter & Guides, please give us a call at 307-266-4229. You can also request a free brochure and find more information on our website.