Quick Tips
- Consider using an outfitter to access private land
- One or more florescent orange exterior garments required for all hunters during rifle season
- Watch for rattlesnakes
- Grouse and cottontail rabbits are found throughout the unit
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Antelope | 65"-70" | 70"+ |
On The Ground
Area 17 is located on the north east boundary of the state and lies just northwest of Gillette. Made up of high plains desert, this unit contains a mix of private lands with fair amounts of BLM and State lands. Antelope are found is good populations throughout this area and hunters who work hard can find some great opportunities here.
This hunt area has fair public access and a high success rate for harvest. Hunters can use an outfitter to gain access to private lands and find quality bucks but success on public lands is diable through hard work.
Terrain
This unit includes of a variety of grassy or desert-like open prairie with large basins, creek bottoms and rolling hills that provide good opportunities for stalking. Private ranch and farm lands found in this area can draw antelope from the surrounding prairie.
Roughly 1,789 square miles
20.8% public land
Elevations from 3,500–4,900 feet
Vegetation
The vegetation in this area is typical, open high desert prairie with sagebrush and grasslands. Rocky bluffs, sagebrush, cedars and small trees are scattered throughout the unit, with some private croplands in areas.
Access
Public access in this unit is fair and provides hunters with State highways, county roads and smaller two-tracks. Gas and oil drilling activity provides access roads in places. This area is bordered by U.S. Highway 14 and Interstate 90 on the south, County Roads 269 and 11 on the west, the Montana state line on the north and Wyoming Highway 59 on the east.
Camping and Lodging
Gillette is the closest town to the unit and offers many options for lodging, groceries, gas and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can camp in remote locations.
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