Wyoming Bighorn Basin

Name: Wyoming Bighorn Basin
Address: North America, United States

North America, United States

Region

Overview

Wyoming's Bighorn Basin is a rugged paradise for hunters, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts, stretching across northwest Wyoming with its vast plains, towering mountains, and the iconic Bighorn River. This region offers prime opportunities for big game hunting like mule deer, elk, and pronghorn, while the rivers and streams provide excellent trout fishing, particularly for rainbow and brown trout. Conservationists will appreciate the efforts to protect bighorn sheep populations and the diverse ecosystems, making it a spot where adventure meets wildlife stewardship. With its remote feel and stunning vistas, it's ideal for those seeking an authentic Western experience, from tracking game in the sagebrush to casting lines in crystal-clear waters.

Terrain & Habitat

The Bighorn Basin features a mix of arid badlands, rolling foothills, and high-elevation mountains up to 13,000 feet, with the Bighorn River cutting through fertile valleys. Habitats range from sagebrush steppe and pine forests to alpine meadows, supporting a variety of wildlife including bighorn sheep in the rocky slopes and waterfowl along the rivers. Anglers will find productive riffles and pools in the streams, while hunters navigate open plains and dense timber for their pursuits.

Best Times

Hunting: Typically runs September to November for big game like elk and deer, when animals are active and weather is cooler.
Fishing: Typically runs May to August for trout in the Bighorn River, with high water flows and hatches.
Wildlife Viewing: Typically runs June to August for spotting bighorn sheep and birds in the mountains, with mild temperatures and clear visibility.

Climate by Month

Month	High °F	Low °F	Rain (in)	Conditions
January	32	10	0.5	Cold and snowy with frequent winds
February	35	14	0.4	Still cold with occasional snow
March	42	22	0.6	Transitioning with melting snow
April	53	31	1	Mild with increasing rain
May	64	39	1.5	Warm and variable with thunderstorms
June	74	47	1.2	Warm and dry with occasional afternoon storms
July	84	54	0.8	Hot and sunny with low humidity
August	82	52	0.7	Warm with potential dry spells
September	71	42	0.9	Cooling with crisp nights
October	56	31	1	Cool and windy with early snow
November	42	22	0.6	Cold with possible snow
December	34	14	0.5	Very cold and snowy

Getting There

Fly into Cody Yellowstone Airport (COD), about 50 miles from the central basin, or Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) in Montana, roughly 100 miles away for broader access.

Gear Recommendations

Pack layered clothing for variable weather, including insulated jackets and base layers for cold snaps; essential for hunters are binoculars, rangefinders, and rifles with scopes; anglers need waders, fly rods, and tippet for river trout; don't forget sturdy hiking boots and bear spray for backcountry safety.

Regulations Summary

Wyoming requires licenses for hunting and fishing, with resident tags approximately $10-50 and non-resident around $200-1000 depending on species; bag limits vary by area and season, and some zones need special permits. Verify current regulations at https://wgfd.wyo.gov.

Insider Tips

Check with local ranchers for private land access tips; they often know the best unmarked spots for elk.
Hit the Bighorn River early morning for trout when the bugs are hatching—locals swear by dry flies over bait.
Avoid hunting near popular trails during weekends to steer clear of crowds and increase your chances.
Pack extra fuel for your vehicle; gas stations are sparse in the basin, and you might get stranded.
For wildlife viewing, hike the less-traveled ridges in summer—bighorn sheep are more active there away from tourists.