There probably is no such thing as a typical hunt. Sure, there are some things we do consistently, however the wild game we pursue do a good job of altering even the best thought out plans. Adaptation and patience are the keys to successful hunting.

Shortly after we receive your deposit and reservation for a hunt with us we begin to help empower you in your preparations for your hunt with us. We believe that the better you are prepared the more you will increase your success rate. This is where your commitment and cooperation is very important. We want your expectations to be met. You should also meet your own expectations. We make many suggestions about what to do in preparing for a hunt. If you choose to leave some of them out, at the end of your hunt, you may just find yourself with some regret. If you have friends who have been a part of an Outfitted hunt and they find they were not happy with their hunt, perhaps they are not telling you everything.

We do not want this to happen when you hunt with Dome Mountain Outfitters. The time before you arrive for your hunt should be exciting for you. As you prepare we will work together with you in an effort to make both of our expectations come together in creating an unforgettable experience for you. As you await the arrival of your hunt we will make the best of this time. We will provide you with information and suggestions on what you should be doing both physically as well as mentally. We will also keep you updated on the wildlife in the area you will be hunting. In general, we will do our best to get to know you long before you arrive. In turn, your arrival will be much like returning to visit an old friend. Your preparation prior to your hunt could very well be the most important thing you can do.

Upon your arrival at Dome Mountain Ranch we will continue to make last minute preparations before your hunt begins. The Outfitter, guides and staff will make certain there is nothing left out, that you are as prepared as you possibly can be. Before your hunt you will visit our professional range to sight in your rifle. We will also take you to the stables and fit you with a comfortable saddle and introduce you to the horses. If you are hunting from the wilderness camp, several guides will work on the chore of packing your gear and preparing you for the trip back to camp.

Everything we do, before and during your hunt are in an effort to make this the best experience it can possibly be for you. Excuses are unacceptable. As the old saying goes, "Success is when opportunity meets preparation."

Finally, the actual physical part of your hunt is about to begin. Over a wholesome dinner the guides will share the morning plans for the days hunt and the expectations of the outcome. As with elk hunting, nothing is written in stone. Hunters often find the first night at Dome Mountain with little sleep. The anticipation and excitement of the hunt weighs heavy on the soul. Rest assured, most hunters have no problems sleeping after a full day hunting. A time is set for breakfast. Hunters may at this time watch hunting videos or enjoy a beverage around the fire.

Following a hearty breakfast, hunters and guides will saddle up for the ride to their preselected stands in hopes of catching feeding elk just before they bed down. Many hunters find the horseback ride in total darkness to be something to remember. Our horses know the trails well and get us there in a safe and timely manner. Once arriving at your stand and tying off your horse you may walk different distances to suitable areas to wait for the first light. This is always a special time. Not yet enough daylight for the eye to see, but there is a sense of unbearable excitement in the air. The morning is often quiet. On occasion, elk can be heard communicating or often their musky scent will drift into the hunter and guide. This only adds to the anticipation and desire to see well enough to identify an animal. These minutes often seem to be the longest of one's life. Should a legal animal be spotted within your range, your guide will share with you to the best of his or her knowledge your shot placement; suggest a rest and other valuable information. It is up to you to make the right decision to take the animal and make an ethical shot.

One rule we have at Dome Mountain is that a hunter should not pass something on the first day he or she would take on the last day. There is no way to recreate opportunity when it comes to elk hunting. Opportunities often happen so fast, that there is very little time for counting points. As a hunter, you should already be mentally prepared for this moment so that your only concern is making a good shot. The decision to shoot, should only take a fraction of a second. If no shots are presented at first light, hunter and guide may often glass for other elk in the area. If it is possible they may walk or decide to ride in an effort to capitalize. Most often, each day's plan will have many steps and alternatives. Hunters find that this adds incentive to hang in there. Should you be lucky enough to score an elk your guide will go about the task of field dressing and caping while waiting for the packers to arrive.

Each day will be spent in pursuit of these incredible animals. As a hunter you will feel as if you are a part of a big team. You and your guide will get to know one another very well. Often, it may take several days of glassing and working a bull to set up that perfect shot. On other occasions, elk can show up anywhere at any time.

Often, hunters will take advantage of the excellent fishing opportunities available here at Dome Mountain as well. They may opt to spend an afternoon casting to 5-pound trout in one of our trophy lakes. Some hunters even take a float trip and test the waters of the Yellowstone River. Whatever the case, Dome Mountain works hard the entire time you are here in an effort to make your hunt the best that it can be for you.