It is important to know that public lands do not always have public access.
In other words, just because it is BLM, State, or even Nat'l Forrest land, you can not access it unless there is a publicly maintained road going to or through it. Land owners out here can be very picky about where you are and how you got there. I have even had them lie to me about a property's ownership. Had the BLM map in hand and the guy still claimed I was on private property! So you leave and go somewhere else. Cause there is no shortage of public land in Wyoming.

I think the point triggerhappy is telling you is to get out of the vehicle and walk over a rise or two to get away from other hunters. There are a lot of road hunters for antelope also and getting away from even a two track dirt road is advisable when lookling for that 14+" buck.

As far as how to get to Casper / Gillette . . . I would have to advise flying into Rapid City, S.D. and rent a truck/car. You're going to need one anyway, and that gives you the opportunity to drive through some of the country you will be hunting to get a flavor for what you'll be up against. Lots of flat land. And goats have 8 power vision. You will see lots of animals driving around. There are more goats in WYO than people!

Go to:http://gf.state.wy.us/wildlife/access/plpw/index.asp

This is the home page in the Game & Fish site that describes private lands that allow public access. Walk-ins and Hunter Management Areas. (The latter requires written permission which is obtainable on-line after you draw your license).

IMHO big goats are where you find them. I believe all areas can and do hold bid bucks. Unlike other species like deer, elk where there are definate areas known to produce trophy animals, antelope can get big all over the state. You just have to scout, be patient, and get up high to glass with quality spotting scope. (You'll be looking several miles at times!)

To locate public lands,I'd recommend the DeLormeatlas for starters. Compare hunt areas with public lands, "Walk-in" lands, HMA's, and draw results to pick your destination. The application does allow for three areas in order of preference.
Also, if you are bringing other hunters with, make sure all of you check and fill in the box "Party Application Block". This enables all hunters in a party to sort of apply together. That way, if one draws, you all draw.

Remember, the regs in the booklet you have say TENTATIVE! That's why there is only the start date. Actual regs come out later in the year. Kind of sucks.
Deer licenses are issued by "Region" I believe. Which include more than one hunt area and possibly more than one list of regs!

I love this stuff!!!!!!!