Please read the full description! Located just north of Thermopolis in Zone C1, this property offers DIY access to the Bighorn River for quality Wyoming waterfowl hunting. Set along a stretch of the river known for holding ducks and geese throughout the season, hunters will have access to multiple established blind locations positioned right on the water, allowing for a straightforward and efficient hunting setup. This is a do-it-yourself style hunt, giving you the freedom to hunt at your own pace while taking advantage of a proven waterfowl corridor. Included with your booking is one night of lodging at Drake Lodge at no additional cost. While hunters are not required to stay at the lodge, it is available as a convenient option for those looking to be close to the action. If you plan to use the lodging, please indicate the number of people in your party and whether or not you intend to stay at the lodge when submitting your booking request, as this helps with planning and accommodations. The lodge only has 2 bedrooms, so plan your trip accordingly - if separate, private bedrooms are desired, the guest limit will be limited to 2 people. If you're not opposed to sharing, you may bring up to 4 people. Dogs are welcome on the property, making this a great setup for hunters who prefer to bring their own retriever.

The Bighorn River in this area is a tailwater system, which means it stays open later into the season than most surrounding water. That consistent open water becomes a major draw for migrating waterfowl, holding strong numbers of ducks and geese as colder weather pushes birds into the region. This stretch of river regularly sees a mix of species including mallards, gadwall, wigeon, teal, shovelers, pintail, goldeneye, and Canada geese. As temperatures drop and migration picks up, birds begin to stack along the river, using it as both a resting and feeding area. The combination of open water, steady current, and surrounding habitat creates a reliable stopover for waterfowl moving through Wyoming. Hunters can expect to see birds trading up and down the river, with groups working into the area throughout the day, especially during peak migration windows.

Reservation fees are due at the time of booking and are non-refundable. Outdoorsman fees will automatically process 48 hours prior to the adventure. It is the responsibility of the party organizer to ensure each attending guest is added to the adventure at least 48 hours prior, so they are charged accordingly.

For waterfowl, fishing, and other small game adventures, cancellations made 48 hours or more prior to the scheduled adventure will not be charged. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the adventure will be charged the full outdoorsman fee.

If there is a lapse in availability, please do not be discouraged to reach out to IO. All calendars are set and managed by landowners, and unavailability is set by them. However, IO is willing to reach out on your behalf, to check on available dates. Other reasons for unavailable dates include biologist recommended hunter/harvest quotas that landowners implement, as well as state season dates not being released.

You are not legally allowed to access the property, for any adventure, prior to your selected access day. If you try to access the property at all before your selected date(s), without prior approval from IO, you will be subject to trespassing and punishments therein.