Season Tips from Sy: Start Conditioning for Your Hunt

As we enter February there are many things to look forward to. The best thing is that we are one month closer to hunting season. I’m sure many of you have already started checking your gear and maybe you’ve even started working with your rifles. However, there is something every hunter needs to begin today to be prepared for their hunt this fall: conditioning. 

Conditioning is one of the most important parts of [...]

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How To Choose Your Outfitter

Admittedly, selecting the right hunting outfitter is not an easy process. With hundreds of thousands of outfitters around the world, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. First, what species are you interested in hunting? Once you have that figured out, which state do you want to hunt in? Are you looking for an area where tags are easy to draw? Furthermore, are you looking for a trophy or simply want to fill your freezer?[...]

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Why We Hunt — Conservation, Food, and Memories

Written by Bill Brown

In a world where people are sensitive, protective, and judgmental, hunters are often questioned as to why they hunt. Does it not bother them to take the life of a wild animal? The truth is, it’s not that simple.

One of the most important aspects of hunting is the food value of what we hunt. Knowing exactly where our food comes from — and for those hunters who process their own meat, exactly how it’s aged and take[...]

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Pack Your Layers for Fall Hunting with SNS Outfitter and Guides

Fall hunting — in both Wyoming and Montana — can mean variable weather and hunting conditions. With dynamic weather in mind, here are a few packing recommendations for those October and November hunts. First and foremost, you should pack layers. Layers are a critical element to hunting in the West. We typically experience cold mornings and warm afternoons, so having the ability to add (or shed) layers is key. In times of movement —  ei[...]

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What I Learned Growing Up As An Outfitters Daughter

Written by Lindsey Wheeler

Whenever people find out that my dad is Sy Gilliland one of the first things they ask me is, “How many big animals have you killed?” I always look, smile, and say, “One.” This answer always astonishes people and they generally go on to ask silly questions like: Are you a bad shot? Do you not like hunting? You mean one a year? WHY? The answers to these questions are simple. No I am [...]

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Then and Now: A Big Thanks to All Who Have Hunted with SNS

It’s hard to believe that we’ve wrapped up our 40th season here at SNS—time flies. It’s been another year of outstanding trophies, unforgettable memories, and first time hunters. We are thankful for all of the hunters who chose to experience their Wyoming (or Montana) hunts with us.

As usual, we kicked off our 2017 season at the Box Y Lodge in the Grey’s River Valley. The Read More

The Guided Hunter’s Daypack: What (and What Not) to Bring

A guided hunt is an awesome experience. It often means seeing a new area for the first time, and sometimes hunting a new species for the first time. One of the most common questions we receive from our guided hunters is what they are responsible to bring. 

We send a checklist to each of our hunters before their trip. The needs of a hunter on an antelope hunt from town are of course much different than hunting elk or mule deer from a remot[...]

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What Rifle Should You Bring On A Western Big Game Hunt?

Each hunting season, we have the great opportunity of hosting many hunters on their first western big game hunt. But whether it’s their first time hunting out west or not, there are still plenty of pre-trip questions to answer. One common question we hear is regarding what rifle to bring on a big game hunt.

Our big game hunting guides have the opportunity to see a lot of animals hit the ground each year. We’ve seen the good, the bad, and t[...]

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Four Late Season Mule Deer Rut Tactics

Hunting the mule deer rut is beyond exciting when timed right. Rut hunts are not available in all states and it doesn’t happen on an exact schedule. November is rut season overall with a peak that varies based on the region. Wyoming and Montana are two of the primary states where rut opportunities exist. Many are limited draw or require outfitter access to privately leased ranches. Here’s what to expect on a late season rut hunt.

Prepare f[...]

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Mule Deer Hunting Basics: 3 Tips for a Successful Hunt

There is something captivating about big mule deer; whether standing in a sea of sage, sneaking through the aspens, or topping over a ridge against the setting sun, the image of a big mule deer buck is a unique picture of the American West. 

The popularity of mule deer hunting never seems to wane. In fact, there’s more demand each year for tags and mule deer hunts. And thanks to careful management and hunter-funded conservation efforts,[...]

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