My understanding is that North American Bison develop a good, furry pelt late in the year and then lose most of the fur in Spring. Since I am not a "snowy-weather" hunter, is there any time of year in the northern great plains when the pelts are good but the snow is mostly absent? I'm looking to get a nice buffalo blanket, or perhaps use it as a rug.

If not, what does a bison pelt taken during the summer look like?

Thanks.

Since there are now many commercially raised bison for meat , there are sources for leather etc. Check www.eatlean.com and check their links.

Thanks for the comments, but as my friend says
"It's hunting, not shopping"
I'm hoping to take it myself

Jim,

If you really want to hunt and NOT shop for a NA bison, the opportunities are few. I know of a one or two realistic opportunities in the lower 48 that are REAL fair chase hunts(B&C eligible) and a few in Canada ("realistic" means not having to wait 20 years to draw). You can also put in for Utah's Henry Mountain or Arizona's House Rock hunt but the drawing odds on these hunts are terrible. You can count on spending $4000-$7000 for a REAL hunt in The US or Canada without facing the drawing odds of Utah or Arizona.

As for the hides, winter is your best bet and the only option for the hunts I described above. I have heard from people that hunted Bison on various ranches that those animals hunted in May or June look OK after they are combed out. The winter hides make the best bedspreads and coats however.

Hope this helps. If you have any further questions, feel free to email or PM me.

Best,

JohnTheGreek