First-Time DIY Antelope Hunt – Looking for Tips

[Unlatched Ammo]

I just drew my first antelope tag and I’m planning a DIY hunt this season. I’ve done plenty of deer hunting but this will be my first time chasing speed goats, and I know they’re a whole different game.

A few things I’m curious about:

• Best tactics for spot-and-stalk in open country

• How much glassing vs. moving I should expect

• Gear you wouldn’t leave home without on an antelope hunt

• Any lessons learned the hard way that you wish you knew on your first trip

I’ll be hunting on public land, and I’m not expecting a record book buck—just looking for a good, clean hunt and some solid meat for the freezer.

Appreciate any advice, stories, or photos you’re willing to share!

 

[TheDoublR]

I assume your hunt start mid Oct. Temps should be decent but the wind can be a factor at times.
Find high points and glass.
Get off the road. Its amazing how many will be just over a hill that if you get out you can find.
If you seeing a bunch of antelope you don't have to shoot the first one you see on the opener.
Find water. I have heard and experienced Antelope come to get a drink between 1030-1200 in the morning.
In the open county if you spot something you have to find a way to use the terrain to your advantage. Example a small cut or wash to move up in.
Gear I would recommend:
Small package stool or chair for glassing
Spotting Scope
Eye drops

 

[Titanmoose]

haven't hunted them in a grip of years but grew up chasing them in SD.

I would bring really good / durable/ cactus/sharps resistant pants / gloves. belly crawling isn't out the question to get over that last little hill for that 300 yard shot.

Good Glass and a seat/tripod.

collapsible toilet = chilli and beans hits different when everyone can see you shitting on your pants from 3 miles away bc you had nothing to lean against.

wind telling device, powder or cheap kestrel. don't need a 5700 elite, but they seem to live where the wind howls all sorts of directions. 300-400 yards is a long shot if you are calling the wind way off.

Move a lot, glass thoroughly they hide ok when bedded but not like a mule deer or even whitetail, don't fall in love with that knob if you are seeing nothing after a couple hours,

micro terrain, if they are standing and feeding, several of them are on the lookout so stay out of LoS and use micro terrain.

 

[balejumper]

A decoy and hunting with a horse and hiding behind it can be a real game changer!

 

[Hondo0925]

A tripod for shooting off of.

 

[Erict]

Being this is your first post I would suggest learning to use the SEARCH function on this website. In no time at all, you should learn a lot if you put in a little effort.

 

[Coopsdaddy]

Or just ask your question.
That’s what fourms are for.

 

[Sandstrom]

Most hunters on public won’t do anything more than road hunt. Get out of the truck and look over the next hill.
Good luck!
Ryan

 

[416bull]

Good luck! Would love to do an antelope hunt any good advice you get I'll be taking notes