Pronghorn antelope are one of the most overlooked big game species in North America. I am frequently surprised by how many of our members are neither applying for antelope nor building points for them. I’m also surprised at how often I hear people say they do not like antelope meat, listing that as one of the reasons they don’t want to hunt antelope. In my experience, antelope is arguably the best option for introducing new hunters to western big game hunting. Our family also widely regards the meat as one of our favorite table fares. So, as the new year begins to unfold, I’d suggest adding antelope to your future hunt plans.
Whether you’re a grandpa (like I am now), a parent, or a mentor, it’s hard to beat hunting a species that has a habit of being visible. I don’t think I’ve had a single day of antelope hunting that I can look back on and say I didn’t see any. Because antelope primarily live in open terrain, not only do they keep new hunters encouraged, but they also provide a great opportunity to teach the most important basics of hunting. New hunters will spend lots of time behind optics, learning glassing principles. They can also visualize the stalk; taking note of small terrain differences helps them (and you) become a better spot and stalk hunter for all species. Finally, the wind tends to be pretty consistent in antelope habitat because you aren’t surrounded by steep mountain ranges that play havoc with the wind direction.
For those reasons, antelope are also a little easier to hunt. I almost ruined my sons on elk hunting because most of the places I’ve hunted over the years are so physically demanding that it’s easy to turn a new, eager hunter into an exhausted, discouraged hunter. Antelope habitat is a lot easier for putting miles on your boots, and if you blow a stalk, you can usually find some new targets—even in the same day. I usually spend more time in the cab of the truck than I care to admit on antelope hunts, but that time is some of the most valuable time I’ve spent in the field with my family and friends. While most western hunts are spent doing your best to be quiet, antelope hunts are usually filled with hot chocolate, snacks, laughter, and an opportunity to connect in ways that you can’t from the comfort of your couch.
Personally, I think it’s a mistake if you’re not building antelope points in Wyoming and Montana. Those two states represent the vast majority of antelope tags in the West, and they are both a great value in terms of price. They also provide enough tags that you won’t find yourself in a lifetime cycle of building points only to get “unsuccessful” draw notices. So, don’t overlook the surprisingly tasty and fun-to-hunt Pronghorn in your draw strategy. If nothing else, build some points for yourself while your kids are young, and use those points to take your kids on a high-adventure, low-stress hunt where you can make some memories and help them find their own passion for the outdoors and hunting at an early age.
Happy New Year and good luck in the draws!
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