My hunting partner and I are putting together a pronghorn hunt for next fall, most likely Wyoming, and I am wondering if anyone would have some practical insight to lend me in terms of what the process should look like.

Here is what I've done:

-Placed holds on books on the subject at the library
-Checked out the Wyoming fish & game website (VERY overwhelming)
-Placed hold on detailed map of Wyoming at library (so I can figure out what hunting area on the web site above is where)
-Talked to friends and clients I know who've had succesful do-it-yourself hunts out there

Is it worth my while to seek out a guide? I'm a somewhat experienced whitetail hunter, and the consensus of those whose opinions I have sought out has been that thorough homework, lots of state land, gas in the truck, good binoculars, comfortable boots, and good stalking skills should get me a nice buck w/out the added expense of a guide.

What do you gentlemen think?

If able to draw a tag for the area you want, you'll find most state, BLM and National Forest lands overrun with other hunters. Game is spooky and chances of tagging a trophy rated at slim to none.

Yes, most prime hunting lands are leased up by guides/landowners. It will cost to put a hunt together for a group, but your chances of success just increased 99.99%.

Might want to consider a guided hunt for the first time to get the lay of the land and what hunting techniques are most successful. You can always spend a little extra time talking to locals and scouting out the terrain after a guided hunt to consider any further ones.

Camping out in eastern and southwestern Wyoming is the true meaning of a "dry camp". Just not much standing or running water. Pack lots of water and most places are scarce with firewood. Best have the latest landownership maps to assure you don't tresspass on private lands - even to reach state/federal lands.

I grew up in Wyoming and still hunt there all the time, and I'd say a do it yourself antelope hunt is very easy and rewarding. First, apply for the Red Desert region in the southwest part of the state. Lots of BLM (public) land with the potential for monster bucks. Then, get away from the roads and you will leave 98% of the other hunters behind. A good binocular and boot leather will net you many opportunities to fill the tag. I can certainly help with specifics for that country, as I have wandered it all. Specifically look south of Wamsutter, WY or north of Point of Rocks, WY.

I would definitely recommend getting a guide. Western hunting conditions are different. A lot of public land is bounded by private property, severely restricting access. Landowners out there guard their property lines with intense interest. If you trespass, even accidently, it can go very hard on you.

Public access points will be crowded with cars, trucks, and campers. Don't expect friendly neighbors. You will have to be prepared to travel some distance from your camp. ATV's are not allowed everywhere. An outfitter with horses is a big plus.

By the time you outfit yourself with all the necessary gear, hunting licenses, and consider high costs of travel and the value of the precious time you've devoted to this adventure, a guide's cost is a good investment.