We recently had the honor and privilege of chatting with Greg Renstrom, a long-time SNS guide and true outdoorsman. Enjoy getting to know Greg and his experience at SNS!

When did you start guiding for SNS?

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to start guiding for SNS back in 2012.

Were you a guide prior to that time? 

No, although I enjoyed taking friends and family into God’s Country every chance possible.

What was the first ever big game hunt that you went on? 

I started hunting when I was 16. My first hunt was near Douglas, Wyoming with my dad and step brother. After a few days of looking around for terrific wild game, I was able to harvest a nice 3×3 deer. Talk about buck fever. Given my excitement, I still don’t know how I was able to put a targeted shot on the deer. Plus, I was borrowing my brother’s gun. Luckily, it was a clean harvest and a memorable time with family. Needless to say, I was hooked. Over the course of the next few years, my brother taught me everything I needed to know about hunting.

What is your favorite part of guiding for SNS?

Working for an outfitter that has the same expectations as the hunter has for him or herself, is really rewarding. In other words, our clients have high expectations (and equally high hopes) for a successful hunt and enjoyable trip. Here at SNS, we share those same predictions.

Furthermore, Sy’s team is awesome. We all work together cohesively, playing on each other’s strengths and talents. Sy also has a keen eye for great land and game management. Most hunts, you are looking for “A” animal, and SNS has ideal land to hunt where the animals are plentiful. The best part about guiding is getting to go on a hunt of a lifetime, every time a new client signs up. I love meeting new clients. Getting to know the hunters and hearing their stories — while being in the outdoors and doing what we love to do — is incredibly fulfilling. I especially like guiding folks that have never been to Wyoming or on a hunt. The excitement they have to be there makes for a great time and experience. Seeing that smile on their face when they leave is worth every minute.  

What is your favorite hunt to guide?

Although elk is my favorite animal to hunt, I would say antelope out of the Christensen ranch is my favorite to guide. The ranch is beautiful with a lot of history and many quality animals to choose from. The terrain is exceptional for scouting and stalking. Plus, it’s a great example of Wyoming’s beautiful scenery. We can’t forget Janet and Patty’s cooking either! I seem to gain 10 pounds during my time at camp. The Orchard ranch is probably my favorite place to be. The elk population is phenomenal.

Favorite guiding memory?

There are so many. Meeting new people and sharing Wyoming’s scenery makes it all worth it. Not to mention, guiding first-timers is always unforgettable. That said, my favorite memory was last year. After five stalks, over two weeks, John Minker — a veteran — finally was able to harvest “Houdini.” We were set up in a good spot and the herd ran right in front of us. “Houdini” picked up another buck that looked almost like him from the side and sent him out first like he knew he was had. I had a mere second to make a decision, and John was able to finally put his hands on him. 

Favorite hunting memory?

Again, so many! I was able to call in a bull elk for my dad, and at the young age of 64, he harvested his first archery elk.  It was our first day out near Douglas and we had hunted for a whopping two hours. He said, “well, this is easy — should just have been doing this all along!”

That said, my favorite time hunting is spent with my daughters. Although only one is a hunter, they both love the outdoors and playing in the dirt. They have been on a few harvests with me and really enjoy it. It is so fun teaching them game management and conservation along with hunting skills. They understand that we hunt for food and aren’t just running around shooting everything. Taking an animal’s life is a big deal and shouldn’t be taken lightly. I enjoy seeing the thankfulness and respect my little ladies give God’s creatures. We talk about it over a good elk steak or burger all the time. Lastly, my first archery bull with Richard was also a memorable day.

Most challenging guiding memory?

I have had a few — mainly regarding challenging physical or medical ailments. I like the challenge, though, as it makes the hunt that much better when they are successful. I once had a hunter who didn’t like to shower. I had to leave my truck’s windows down for a month, ha. Another funny memory was a hunter who said he needed to “take care of business.” I found a secluded place for him. He was gone for 15 minutes. Needless to say, when we got back to camp, there wasn’t a soul that didn’t know about it. Luckily “soggy britches” got a nice antelope a few hours after. Oddly enough, that was my first hunt I guided.

What do you do during the “off season?” 

I have been in the coal mining industry for 15 years. Other than that, I spend time with my twin daughters, as well as go shed hunting, camping, or fishing. One of my daughters likes to run and kept me in shape last year by running an 18-mile mountain race. As you can imagine, it is getting tough to keep up with her.   

What is one piece of hunting equipment you couldn’t live without, not including your gun?

Janet and Patty’s cooking! Other than that, my number one piece of equipment I need is my Leica range finder. Accurate ranges to ensure a safe and ethical shot are very important. A pack frame is also important for the after-shot care. That is, unless you have me around. 

How did you get started guiding for SNS?

I have been fortunate enough to be around SNS for about 15 years thanks to my good friend, father-in-law, and longtime guide, Richard. Being around SNS for many years — and knowing a lot of the guides — made the decision to work for SNS relatively easy. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the ranches and how guiding worked, prior to guiding. As I grew up, I found that I enjoyed hunting from the perspective of watching someone else have the experience (more than pulling the trigger myself). I sent Sy a resume and asked for an opportunity to guide when one came up. I was fortunate enough to be on the schedule that fall.    

What is the number one piece of advice you’d like a hunter to know when coming to hunt with SNS?

Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the country and the hunt. After all, you’re on vacation! Make sure to practice shooting. The most upsetting thing for a hunter on any guided hunt is a poor shot. Guides will ensure you have a safe hunt, a good stalk, and will take care of everything…but we don’t shoot. You are going to pack too much gear, guaranteed, so don’t sweat what you’re forgetting. Lastly, the better shape you are in when you arrive, the more ground you will be able to cover.  

Do you have other questions about hunting with SNS Outfitter & Guides, contact us here. You can also request a FREE brochure by clicking here.