WY Elk Unit 117 — South Black Hills

# WY 117 South Black Hills – Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Access Unit 117 spans 3,500–6,600 ft with only 22% public land—most hunting occurs on private ground requiring permission or outfitter access. Lower elevations are more accessible; higher slopes provide escape terrain and late-season opportunity. ## Herd & Population Trends No population or bull:cow ratio data is available for this unit. Harvest data shows solid success across seasons: Type 1 (early rifle) averaged 51–61% success over two years; Type 3 (late rifle) and Type 6 (archery) ran 29–39%, typical for restricted-harvest seasons with longer seasons and diverse hunter skill....