Quick Answer
Short answer: A unit's ranking is determined by factors such as elk harvest rates, bull-to-cow ratios, and hunter success rates, with the top units often having high bull harvest rates and low hunter success rates.
Harvest Rate and Bull-to-Cow Ratio
The harvest rate, which is the number of elk harvested per 100 hunter days, is a key factor in determining a unit’s ranking. A high harvest rate indicates a healthy elk population with a sufficient number of bulls. A bull-to-cow ratio of 15:100 or higher is also desirable, as it suggests a strong bull population. For example, in Wyoming’s Unit 38, the 2019 harvest rate was 14.6 elk per 100 hunter days, with a bull-to-cow ratio of 18:100.
Hunter Success Rate and Effort
Hunter success rates and effort are also critical in determining a unit’s ranking. A unit with a high success rate and low hunter effort is likely to be ranked higher than one with a lower success rate and higher effort. For example, in Colorado’s Unit 4, the 2020 hunter success rate was 30.6%, with an average hunter effort of 2.8 hunters per square mile.
Draw Odds and Access
Draw odds, which are the chances of being awarded a license, can also impact a unit’s ranking. Units with low draw odds are often considered more desirable, as they are perceived to be more difficult to obtain. Additionally, units with good access, such as those with multiple roads and trails, are often preferred over those with limited access. For example, in Utah’s Unit 20, the 2020 draw odds were 0.4%, while Unit 21 had a draw odds of 0.1%.
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