Jenna grew up fishing with her grandpa, casting lines into quiet streams, but hunting was new territory. When she booked her first Wyoming hunt, she was all in—dreaming of elk, deer, or maybe pronghorn in the Tetons’ shadow. But after chatting with friends and digging online, she hit a wall: picking a guide felt like finding a needle in a haystack. She wanted someone who knew the land cold, kept her safe, and made her feel like she belonged. Stories of guides who barely spoke or rushed folks through? That was her nightmare.
We get it. At Jackson Hole Outfitters, we’ve seen plenty of first-timers like Jenna wrestle with the same choice. A good guide’s like a hunting partner—they turn a trip into a story you’ll tell for years. Here’s how to pick the right one for your Wyoming adventure.
What Makes a Good Hunting Guide?
A great guide doesn’t just point you at game—they make the whole experience click. They know the backcountry, keep you safe, and teach you the ropes, whether you’re a rookie or a repeat hunter. The wrong guide? You’re stuck with a silent slog or worse, an unsafe one. Here’s what sets the best apart:
Having the right guides is one of Jackson Hole Outfitter’s highest priorities. We hire guides that stand out and put you in the best position for success and safety.
- They're local or have local knowledge of the area.
- They prioritize your safety and hunting goals.
- Making you feel welcome—whether you are new or have hunted a lot.
Local Knowledge and preseason legwork
A great guide doesn’t just show up on day one—they live the land year-round. At Jackson Hole Outfitters, our guides know Wyoming’s backcountry like their own backyard, from the Greys River’s winding draws to the high ridges of the Bridger-Teton. To new hunters, Wyoming’s vast terrain can feel like a sea of sage and timber, but we spot what others miss: a mule deer’s faint track in the dust, an elk’s rub on a pine, or a pronghorn’s path through the flats. That know-how means you’re not wandering—you’re hunting, learning, or lining up a shot.
Our team’s out there long before the season starts, scouting game, clearing trails, and taking notes. Year after year knowledge builds into an intimate understanding of the places animals use throughout the season. This preseason legwork puts you in the right place at the right time, whether you’re after a trophy or just soaking in the Tetons.
That same knowledge keeps you safe. Wyoming’s wilds are no joke. Our guides read the land’s cues: a shift in the clouds, odd animal behavior, or a trail that’s gone soft. We catch trouble before it finds you, so you can focus on the hunt, not the what-ifs.
Communication and Safety
You need a guide who explains things well. They should hear your questions, answer simply, and check in often. Good guides talk through the plan and show you how each step will go.
Safety comes first. Before you hunt, a guide should tell you what rules to follow, what gear to use, and how to move in the wild. If they skip this, or act careless, find someone else. Strong guides help nervous kids, explain things for new hunters, or remind you if you forget a rule.
why choose jackson hole outfitters?
We’ve been guiding Wyoming hunts for years, from elk in the Bridger-Teton to deer along the Greys River. Our guides know where game moves, how to get you there, and how to make it fun. We’re licensed, safety-first, and love teaching—whether it’s your first hunt or your tenth.
Wyoming’s seasons—elk and deer in fall, pronghorn in late summer—book fast. We’ll handle permits, gear lists, and a plan that fits you, so you can focus on the chase. See what our hunters say on jacksonholeoutfitters.com or search X for recent trips. Our camps, from Little Greys Glamping to backcountry setups, are built for comfort and adventure.
tips for booking your hunt
- Book Early: Our best hunts fill up quick.
- Be Prepared: Get in shape, practice shooting
- Speak up: Don't hesitate to ask questions
- Build your Skills: Consider attending one of our Skills Camps
- Trust your Gut: We want to be the right hunting partnter
- We are always happy to provide references
Its our goal to be as honest and transparent as possible and communicate throughout your booking and hunt planning process.
The Bottom Line
We understand that your Wyoming hunt is going to be a story worth telling. Choosing the right outfitter can make all the difference between an epic tale of adventure, or a wasted week in the mountains. The right guide makes it safe, fun, and unforgettable. At Jackson Hole Outfitters, we’re ready to be that guide. Give us a call to start your Wyoming hunt. Safe trails and good hunting!
