Mountain Lion/Cougar Hunts

Hunting Mountain Lion on our ranch is by far the most unpredictable, challenging and sometimes the most frustrating. There are so many uncontrolled factors and conditions that contribute to this hunt, each is unique. Hunts can take as long as half a day to ten days and is definitely not a hunt for the faint of heart. The pursuit is a far greater thrill than the actual kill, but to harvest a Mountain Lion is certainly worth every minute and every effort expended.

Units We Offer Hunts In

Utah
Colorado

2020 Mountain Lion Season Dates

Utah:

Year-round

Colorado:

November through April

Equipment List

You do not need blaze orange, binos, or range finders. Camouflage isn't necessary, but is fine. Dress in layers as you want to avoid sweating and then getting chilled. Weight of your daypack can be an issue, as hiking in the snow can be strenuous so pack with that in mind. Weight and ease of carrying is also an issue when choosing a weapon. We recommend a pistol or open sight rifle, 99% of the time these are close range shots.

Winter Hunts

Nov - Feb
Average Daily Temperatures for
November HI: 45 LO: 24
January HI: 28 LO: 10

Suggested General Items:
•  Hiking boots: waterproof, heavy insulation, broken in
•  Gaiters
•  Moisture wicking wool socks & liners
•  Wool long underwear
•  Pants: mid weight or wool
•  Shirts: undershirts, wool or flannel outer shirts
•  Vest
•  Mid weight coat
•  Heavy parka
•  Neck/face cover
•  Ear cover/warm hat
•  Light & heavy gloves
•  Personal toiletries and medications
Day Pack containing:
•  Camera
•  Knife
•  Extra ammo
•  Headlamp or flashlight w/extra batteries
•  Fire starting kit
•  Refillable water bottles
•  License & hunter safety card

Spring Hunts

March - May
Average Daily Temperatures for
March HI: 49 LO: 26
May HI: 70 LO: 43

These hunts are similar to winter, yet with lighter to no snow and warmer weather.

Suggested General Items:
•  Hiking boots: waterproof, light insulation, broken in
•  Moisture wicking socks
•  Long underwear
•  Pants: jeans or light wool
•  Shirts: midweight or long sleeved
•  Mid weight coat
•  Hoodie
•  Hat
•  Light gloves
•  Rain suit or waterproof jacket
Day Pack containing:
•  Camera
•  Knife
•  Extra ammo
•  Headlamp or flashlight w/extra batteries
•  Fire starting kit
•  Refillable water bottles
•  License & hunter safety card
•  Personal toiletries and medications

Frequently Asked Questions

What does your guide rate include?

•  The $6,500 for a five-day hunt includes everything but motels and dinners at night, if that mode of accommodation is used. Also all state licensing and permit fees are also the responsibility of the hunter.
•  Any gas station stops, the hunter will be responsible for whatever he or she chooses to purchase.
•  You are responsible for weapon of choice, hunting clothes, personal effects and transportation to and from Vernal, UT.

What can I expect for lodging?

•  We offer full-service lodges and camp trailers, where you will be served breakfast, dinner and provided with a sack lunch for midday or return to camp for lunch.
•  Keep in mind that when staying in a cabin or camp trailer in the winter months we will not have running water.
•  We limit our camps to avoid overcrowding but still allow for plenty of camaraderie. Practice targets will be available to keep you tuned up for that chance at a trophy.

What should I tip my guide?

•  This is always a sensitive question, but one we get all of the time. Industry standard is 10-20%.

What happens if I don't kill a mountain lion?

•  If for some reason we don't kill the mountain lion of your choice within the five days of your hunt, you can continue hunting for $600 a day thereafter and if you want to come back the next year for that rate also, until you kill your mountain lion.

What are the temperatures like during the hunt?

•  Temperatures can range from below zero to mid 50-60s.

Where is your ranch?

•  Our ranch is located near Vernal, UT in northeastern Utah, where we will meet you.

What types of tags/permits will I need to purchase?

•  We usually have hunters buy Utah and Colorado tags so we can cover more ground. •  For Utah, tag and fees information can be found by reading Utah's 2015-2016 Cougar Guidebook. Apply online at Utah Hunt.
•  For Colorado, tag and fees information can be found by reading Colorado Mountain Lion Hunting. Apply online at Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

How soon will I need my license?

•  Licenses MUST be purchased at least 10 days before your arrival to hunt. There is a 10-day waiting period before your tag is valid.

Are you members of any guide associations?

•  Yes, we are a member of the Utah and Colorado Guides Associations.

What should I expect regarding taking care of my cape and taxidermy?

•  Trophy care includes hauling your animal off mountain to the cabin where we have hanging racks for the animal.
•  We will cape your trophy and put it in your cooler or assist in making arrangements with your taxidermist.

Rates and Seasons

Mountain Lion Hunting Rates (per person)

For current pricing call 435-760-1682. Hunts are typically set up with a 5-day hunt base price (1x1) with each additional day being a set additional fee.

We hunt mountain lions in Utah yea-round and from November to April in Colorado. See FAQs, to the right, for more information about Colorado fees.

Mountain lion hunts include lodging and meals in one for ways: in our lodge, in a neighboring ranch lodge, in camp trailers or in motels. If we stay in a motel, the hunter will be required to pay for his or her own motel and meals at night. All hunts include guiding, skinning and trophy care. Quality taxidermy is available with a recommended local taxidermist. See FAQs, to the right, for more information.

Application and State Fees Information

Application Dates

Your license can be purchased throughout the year, but must be purchased prior to your hunt. Apply Online at Utah Hunt. For questions call 1-801-538-4700 or refer to Utah's Cougar Guidebook

License Fees

Permit Fees

Resident Fees:
Cougar harvest-objective permit $58
Nonresident Fees:
Cougar harvest-objective permit $258