The Lander Region moose herds are below desired population objective levels and continue to struggle. Exceptional quality moose come from this region as a result of conservative hunting. Moose calf survival has remained average for the past couple of seasons, but herd population continues to be a concern to the Wyoming Game and Fish.

This area is considered to be an average moose area in the state. That being said, occasional 40” plus moose scoring over 150” B&C are harvested in this region with an occasional B&C moose coming from this area.

Terrain in this area ranges from very steep and rocky mountainous terrain to lowland and mid elevation areas containing riparian habitat that moose tend to thrive in. Timber patches with open meadow habitat can be found throughout the area.

Wilderness

Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.

As you move into the interior of this area, rivers and streams have riparian habitat with willows, cottonwoods, shrubs, grasses and forbs. Lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, whitebark pine and limber pine are typical in the area. Native grasses, forbs and some sagebrush are found throughout mid elevations. Grasses and forbs can be found at higher elevations, and give good habitat and feed for the moose population.

Access is moderate to difficult. Low and mid elevations contain plenty of roads for hunters to access the area, but as you gain elevation roads tend to be fewer and access becomes more difficult. This area is mostly public land, but does contain the Fitzpatrick Wilderness Area and nonresident hunters wanting to access and hunt this area they must be accompanied by a guide or outfitter.

Dubois is located in the center of the area and contains a small number of lodging options. Food and Groceries may also be purchased in Dubois. Travel to the area can be long distances therefore camping is recommended while hunting in most parts of the area. There are a small number of designated campgrounds in the area and hunters may camp on Forest Service and BLM land with no permit.