Hi M.T.
To hunt for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep...
Figure out a way to set aside a bunch of buck$. Start applying for tags in every state that offers a non-resident tag. Make some contacts in each state so when you are actually in the running, you can apply for a good unit.
Others may be able to help you with Wyoming and Montana. I would be happy to help with Colorado.
A non-resident tag in Colorado costs around $1600. You need to begin applying each year which means floating the license fee to the state for a couple months every year. You will not draw with less than 3 preference points (3 years) so consider it a loan to the state for a few months each year.
After you have 3 points they go into a weighted preference point systems where you might draw at any time and the odds get better with the more weight added with each unsuccessful year.
Colorado allocates 10 percent of its sheep tags to non-residents. Units with a small number of tags available may not have a non-resident license allocated.
Step one: Go to
DOW website in February and request an application. Apply for any ram tag, send it back with $$$ and wait for your unsuccessfull letter with a check.
Step two: Deposit check in savings account.
Step three: Repeat steps one and two until 3 preference points are accumulated
Step four: Determine your goals. Sheep hunters are a fanatical lot who like to run the numbers, figure the odds and scout for sheep in the winter. Units with big rams will almost always be harder to draw than those with a history of small sheep. Decide whether you want to play the odds for a smaller ram or play lotto for a good area.
Step five: Go for the inside information. If I am still around, contact me. I am not an outfitter, but will give advice on where to apply based on what I know. I am a resident and not competing for the same tag you are anyway. I also love to go on sheep hunts and will help out if time permits.
Step six: repeat steps two, four and five anually until the coveted sheep tag arrives in the mail.
Good luck.