Wyoming Bighorn Sheep Hunting Units & Draw Odds
19 units · 77.7% avg hunter success
Wyoming's bighorn sheep draw runs on a preference point system, and nonresidents compete for 16% of available tags. Applications open January 2 and close April 30 each year, with results posted May 21. The regular draw tag fee is $3002 for nonresidents; the application fee is $15. Whether you're hunting a ram or an ewe/lamb, you'll need preference points to improve your odds—the bar varies significantly by unit. Below is verified 2024 draw data from 19 units across the state, showing the exact point requirements that drew with certainty and the success rates hunters actually achieved. Use this to identify which units match your point total and risk tolerance.
How the Wyoming Draw Works
Draw system
Preference points — the highest point holders draw first.
Nonresident allocation: 16% of tags
2026 application window
Jan 2 – Apr 30(nonresident)
Results: May 21
2026 fees (nonresident, regular)
$15 app · $0 license · $3002 tag · $150 point
Easiest Bighorn Sheep Draws for Nonresidents (2024 Results)
Point levels that drew with certainty, and the best documented zero-point hunts — actual draw results, per hunt.
16 pts drew with certainty · Type 2
17 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
18 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
20 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
22 pts drew with certainty · Type 2
25 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
25 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
25 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
27 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
28 pts drew with certainty · Type 1
| Unit | Drew with certainty at | Best zero-point hunt | Success | Public land |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 12 | 16 ptsType 2 | — | 100% | 99% |
| Unit 6 | 17 ptsType 1 | — | 0% | 97% |
| Unit 9 | 18 ptsType 1 | — | 20% | 95% |
| Unit 22 | 20 ptsType 1 | — | 60% | 85% |
| Unit 17 | 22 ptsType 2 | — | 92.9% | 70% |
| Unit 1 | 25 ptsType 1 | — | 85.7% | 93% |
| Unit 18 | 25 ptsType 1 | — | 100% | 52% |
| Unit 2 | 25 ptsType 1 | — | 89.3% | 86% |
| Unit 5 | 27 ptsType 1 | — | 77.8% | 74% |
| Unit 19 | 28 ptsType 1 | — | 90.9% | 30% |
All Wyoming Bighorn Sheep Units
Wyoming Bighorn Sheep Draw FAQ
How many preference points do nonresidents need to draw a Wyoming bighorn sheep tag?
It depends on the unit. In 2024, nonresident draw requirements ranged from 16 points (Unit 12) to 22 points (Unit 17) to draw with certainty. Preference points accumulate if you don't draw, and applying annually increases your odds over time. The unit you target should match your current point balance.
What are the application and tag fees for nonresidents in Wyoming bighorn sheep draws?
The application fee is $15. The regular draw tag fee is $3002 if you draw. If you're applying for the ewe/lamb draw instead, the tag fee is $240. Fees are set annually and may change.
When do Wyoming bighorn sheep applications open and close?
Applications open January 2 and close April 30 each year. Results are drawn and posted May 21. Plan to submit your application well before the April 30 deadline to avoid any technical issues.
What's the actual success rate for nonresidents who draw a Wyoming bighorn sheep tag?
Success varies widely by unit. In 2024, harvest success ranged from 0% (Unit 6) to 100% (Unit 12). Factors like terrain difficulty, animal population, and hunter experience all play a role. Review the specific unit data before committing your points.
Plan your Wyoming Bighorn Sheep hunt — free account, no card. Run the draw simulator at your point level, see 2022–2024 data, and save units to compare.
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