At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Waterfowl hunting along the South Platte
- Sidney, Ne. home of Cabela's
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
| Whitetail Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
| Antelope | Dummy | Dummy |


Hunters discussing Unit 97 in Colorado share valuable insights into the area's challenges and opportunities. The terrain is described as rugged, requiring good physical preparation, but it offers rewarding landscapes for those willing to put in the effort. There's a consensus that the unit has some potential for success, especially for those who strategically use the terrain to their advantage and understand the seasonal migration patterns of the local game. Overall, hunters stress the importance of being prepared for variable weather and emphasize the value of scouting trips to better navigate this unit effectively.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
| Whitetail Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
| Antelope | Dummy | Dummy |
Vast agricultural and sand hill county south of Sterling is mainly private land. Mule deer herds are stable, antelope herd is declining and elk are not known to frequent this unit.
Hunters should gain hunting permission before their hunt. Elk are very scarce.
Sand Hills consists of miles of just that, as well as a portion named Jones Flats along with miles of open prairie, as well as Fremont Butte, Eagle Hill and dry washes with large sections of dry croplands.
No state or Federal lands that allow public access.
Interstate 76 is the western border, Colorado Highway 61 marks the eastern and northern edge, U.S. Highway 34 travels east and west creating the southern boundary and Colorado Highway 6 travels through the middle. All roads connect to a good county road system.
Area consists of vast areas of sagebrush, yucca plants, Russian thistle, areas of short grasses, wind breaks of Russian olives and agricultural crops of wheat, sunflower and corn.
Sterling and Fort Morgan, along Interstate 76 in the northwest and southwest, give hunters a lot of options for motels, restaurants, gas and diesel fuel, medical facilities, RV parks and campgrounds. Communities of Akron and Otis provide gas and small cafes.
Roughly 593 square miles
13.9% public land
Elevations from 3,900-4,700 feet