Pratt Community College Students Test Skills in Wyoming Backcountry Experience
Published on: May 12, 2026
Pratt Community College students in the Wildlife Outfitting and Operations (WOO) program recently put their training to the test during a five-day backcountry trip to central Wyoming—an experience that challenged both their skills and resilience in the outdoors.
Sophomore students enrolled in the program’s “Guiding in the Outdoors” course spent the week hunting, fishing, and camping in rugged conditions, including 40-mph winds, a sandstorm, rain, and even snow. The trip serves as a capstone-style experience, allowing students to apply the techniques they’ve been developing throughout the semester.
In preparation for the trip, students spent months learning essential backcountry skills, including cold-weather camping and packing, e-scouting, navigation, and proper harvest care. This year, after extensive research, the class selected central Wyoming as their destination to pursue Merriam’s wild turkey, a species commonly found in mountainous regions of the United States.
Participation required students to enter a non-resident tag lottery system—an entirely new experience for many. For several students, the trip also marked their first time hunting outside their home state, adding another layer of challenge and growth.
The group faced unpredictable weather from the start. The first day brought temperatures in the mid-80s paired with strong winds, which later shifted to create intense dust and sand conditions throughout camp. By the second day, temperatures dropped significantly as rain and snow moved in. Despite the harsh environment, calmer conditions later in the trip allowed students to successfully locate both game and fish.
All students who secured tags were able to get within shooting distance of a turkey during the trip, demonstrating the effectiveness of their preparation and persistence. Sophomore Vincent Lynn achieved a major milestone, successfully harvesting his first Merriam’s on the third day.
“This trip is one of the most anticipated experiences in the WOO program,” Rocky Robinson, WOO Instructor, shared. “It challenges students in ways the classroom can’t and gives them the opportunity to truly apply what they’ve learned.”
The Wyoming excursion remains a cornerstone of the WOO program, providing students with real-world, hands-on experience that prepares them for careers in outdoor recreation, guiding, and wildlife management. Pratt Community College extends its appreciation to the local individuals who offered guidance and support throughout the trip, helping make the experience both successful and memorable for students.