MONTANA ELK AND DEER

ON
MO
N TA N A 2016
OPVECI
E RVI
S
ESEW
MONTANA
M ONTANA D EPARTMENT O F FISH, WILDLIFE, A ND PA RKS
1420 East 6th Avenue • PO Box 200701 • Helena, MT 59620-0701 | 406-444-2535 • www.fwp.mt.gov
NOTE: THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE MONTANA’S OFFICIAL
HUNTING REGULATIONS. USE IT ONLY AS A GUIDE. REFER TO THE STATE
REGULATIONS WHEN APPLYING.
I
n this issue, we will only be covering
Montana’s top deer and elk hunts.
Montana prints several sets of
regulations, covering all of the different
species, and each has their own release
dates as well as staggered application
periods. In the April issue, we will cover
the best moose, sheep, mountain goat,
and antelope hunts the state has to
offer. This will leave plenty of time for
you to make the right decision before
the application deadline.
Montana’s regulations will be
available for download online at
http://fwp.mt.gov/hunting/regulations/
or by calling 406-444-2535. The nonresident General and Special deer and
elk applications must be submitted
online or postmarked by March 15th.
P A P E R A P P L I CAT IONS :
The application must be postmarked
by the U.S. Postal Service or submitted
online at https://app.mt.gov/als/index/
index.html by March 15th.
106
ON L I N E A P P LICAT IONS :
You may apply online for Montana’s
big game tags. Applicants will need a
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or
debit card to apply, and a convenience
fee of $1.25 plus approximately 2.5%
of the total purchase will be added
to the application fees. This is well
worth it as it eliminates the chance
of your application getting lost in the
postal system, which can cause you to
be rejected. You may apply online at
https://app.mt.gov/als/index/index.html.
ELK AND DEER
2 016 M O N T A N A N O N - R E S I D E N T F E E S
Conservation License (included in the combination license)
$10
Archery Stamp (mandatory for all archery hunts)
$10
Bonus Point Fee per Species (Optional)
$20
Youth Big Game Combination
$510.50
Come Home to Hunt Combination
$510.50
Big Game Combination
$1,001
Elk Combination
$851
Special Elk Permit
$9
Deer Combination
$597
Special Deer A Permit
$5
Wolf Permit (can purchase up to 5)
AP P LICATION PAY MEN T:
For paper applications, payment for
the application and tag fees must be
made by money order or cashier’s
check payable to Montana FWP. No
personal or company checks will be
accepted. For online applications, Visa,
MasterCard, American Express, or
debit are accepted. Whether applying
online or on paper, tag fees must be
paid for at the time of application.
All refunds will be mailed to
unsuccessful applicants in the form of
a check.
W IT HDRAW/AMEN DMEN T
OF APPLICATION S:
There is a withdraw form that will be
available online. You must print it off
and mail it back to the Montana FWP.
You will forfeit your application fees,
but the tag fee will be refunded. You
$50
MONTANA’S 2016 HUNTING
SEASON DATES:
Deer/Elk Archery
Sept 3-Oct 16
Deer/Elk General Firearm
Oct 22-Nov 27
Deer/Elk Archery Backcountry
Sept 3-14
Deer/Elk Firearm Backcountry
Sept 15-Nov 27
Backcountry Units:
150, 151, 280, and 316
There is no archery season in HD 316.
are not allowed to reapply after your
application has been withdrawn.
N ON -RESIDEN T TAG Q U O T A :
Elk and deer non-resident applicants are
MONTANA 2016
allocated “up to” 10% of a unit’s quota,
not guaranteed. If a non-resident
applies for a deer or elk permit area
that has less than a quota of 10, the
application will not be considered for
the drawing.
DR A W O D D S :
We have calculated the draw odds by
dividing the number of non-resident
applicants by 10% of the available tags,
without respect to bonus points.
SE Q UE N C E O F T H E D RAW :
Everyone’s first choice is awarded
before anyone’s second choice
is considered.
PA R T Y A P P L I C A T IONS :
Party applications are available for
elk and deer with a maximum party
size of five. Bonus points will be
averaged and rounded to the nearest
whole number.
D RAW RESULTS:
For deer and elk tags, draw results will
be available mid-April.
REF UNDS:
Applicants who are successful in
drawing a General tag will then be
placed in the Special drawing. For Big
Game Combination or Elk Combination
licenses, you will be able to choose
from the following, if unsuccessful
in the Special drawing: keep your
General Combination license to use on
the general seasons, receive an 80%
refund of the license, or, if drawn for
a Big Game Combination license and
unsuccessful in drawing a Special elk
permit, elect to receive a $306 refund
for the elk license and be issued a Deer
Combination license to use for the
general deer seasons. These options
do not exist if you only apply for
the Deer Combination license. If you
successfully draw a Deer Combination
OVERV I E W
license but are unsuccessful in the
Special drawing, you can still return
your license for an 80% refund by
August 1st or a 50% refund before the
start of the general hunting season.
PREFEREN CE POIN TS:
Preference points are issued for the
General Combination drawing. The
Montana preference point system
is voluntary and costs $50 for nonresidents. Seeing as Montana has not
sold out of their General Combination
licenses for several years, we discourage
anyone from purchasing them as they
are not needed.
B ON US POIN TS:
Bonus points will be issued for
the Special deer and elk drawings.
The Montana bonus point system
is voluntary and costs $20 for nonresidents per species. Bonus points
for deer and elk are squared in the
WILL SCHOTT
107
M O N TA N A 2016
O V ERVI EW
drawing. For example, if you have 3
bonus points, you will have 9 points
in the drawing plus that year’s
application, equaling 10 chances in the
drawing. If unsuccessful, you will be
awarded another point and will have 4
points going into next year’s drawing.
You may skip two consecutive years of
applying without losing your points. If
you skip the third year or draw your
first choice, your points go back to 0.
Party applications will have their bonus
points averaged and rounded to the
nearest whole number. Bonus points
are not used or lost in second and third
choice drawings.
YOUTH APPREN TICE
H UN TER PROGRAM:
New in 2015, this is another
opportunity for youth hunters, ages
10-17, to get out in the field hunting
deer only prior to having taken
hunter education. An apprentice
hunter must be accompanied by a
mentor who is at least 21 years of
age. Apprentice hunters cannot apply
for limited-entry draws. However,
if you plan on hunting an unlimited
unit, you must send an application
to FWP headquarters. Contact the
licensing department directly with any
further questions.
L E F T O V E R L I CENS ES :
Leftover General Combination licenses
for deer and elk will go on sale within
a week after the draw results have
been posted. The licenses will be
available online, through the mail, and
at any Montana FWP office. All licenses
will be available on a first-come,
first-served basis.
YOUTH HUN TIN G
OP P ORTUN ITIES:
Youth ages 12-15 may harvest a cow
elk with their elk license without
having to draw a cow permit.
Once again, the FWP Commission
is allowing legally licensed hunters
10-15 years of age to hunt deer
during the statewide two-day,
youth-only deer season, which runs
October 20-21. See the regulations for
further information.
HUN TER ORAN GE
REQUIREMEN TS:
Any person hunting or accompanying
a hunter as an outfitter or guide must
wear a minimum of 400 square inches
of hunter orange material above the
waist that is visible at all times.
WAITIN G PERIODS:
There is no waiting period to apply if
you have previously drawn an elk or a
deer tag.
ACCESS PROGRAM:
Montana has a Block Management
program, which is a cooperative
program between private landowners
and Montana FWP. Block Management
L A N D O W N E R T AGS :
Montana landowners, residents
and non-residents, may qualify for
preference in the Special license/permit
drawing for deer and elk. Landowners
may designate a family member or
employee to be placed in the draw for
a tag. There is 15% of the limited draw
tags set aside for landowners.
H UN T E R E D UCAT ION
R E Q UI R E ME NT S :
Anyone born after January 1, 1985
must have taken a hunter education
course to purchase a hunting license
in Montana. In order to purchase an
archery license, you must provide a
certificate of completing a bowhunter
education course or provide any prior
year’s bowhunting permit from any
other state, prior to applying.
MI N I MUM A GE T O AP P LY
A N D T O H UN T :
An 11-year-old youth who will be 12 years
old by January 16, 2017 may purchase
a hunting license and apply for any
drawing but cannot hunt until after
August 15, 2016.
108
FOY WALKER WITH
COTTONWOOD OUTFITTERS
MONTANA 2016
helps landowners manage hunting
activities and provides the public with
free hunting access to private land
and sometimes to adjacent or isolated
public lands. Currently, hunters can hunt
about 7.3 million acres of private land
for free. Program funding comes from
the sale of various licenses. A regional
Hunting Access Guide is published
annually by August 15th, which lists the
Block Management Areas enrolled for
that year and explains how to gain
access to them. Call 406-444-2602 for
more information.
have no more than two barrels; and
must only use plain lead projectiles.
Sabots or other similar power and
range-enhancing manufactured loads
that enclose the projectile from
the rifling or bore of the firearm
are prohibited.
SU P E R T A G S :
Chances are available for moose,
bighorn sheep, mountain goat,
antelope, elk, deer, bison, and
mountain lion. One Super Tag will be
drawn for each species and can be
used in any hunting district, including
Montana’s most legendary trophy
districts. Revenue from the Super
Tag sales is used to enhance hunting
access and boost FWP enforcement
efforts. Unlimited Super Tag chances
may be purchased at $5 each. Super
Tag chances may be purchased
online at https://app.mt.gov/als/index/
index.html.
H ARVEST REPORTIN G
REQUIRE MEN TS:
Montana does not have harvest
reporting requirements for deer
and elk.
P RI MI T I V E W E A P ON
REST R I C T I O N S :
For archery, your bow must meet all
of the following requirements to be
legal: must be handheld, must be at
least 28" in length, and may have no
more than 80% let-off. The arrow must
meet all of the following requirements
to be legal: must be at least 20" in
length, the total arrow weight must
be more than 300 grains, broadheads
must weigh 70 grains or more and have
two cutting edges, and expendables
are legal if they expand to at least 7/8".
The following equipment restrictions
apply only to weapon restriction areas:
muzzleloaders must not be capable of
being loaded from the breech of the
barrel; may not be loaded with any preprepared paper or metallic cartridges;
must be charged with black powder,
pyrodex, or an equivalent; must
be ignited by a percussion, flintlock,
matchlock, or wheellock mechanism;
must be a minimum of .45 caliber; may
M AP S :
Regular Montana BLM maps may be
obtained by calling 406-896-5000.
Other topographical maps may
be obtained by calling the USGS at
406-329-3024.
W OLF U PDATES:
As of February 16, 2016, there was
a total of 186 wolves harvested in
Montana. The wolf trapping season
will end on February 28, 2016, and the
wolf hunting season will end on March
15, 2016. We will cover the Montana
wolf information in the October
issue. If you plan on hunting elk in
Montana, make sure you have a wolf
tag in your pocket. That’s the best $50
you could spend.
D ID YOU KN OW:
• Legally licensed hunters 10-15
years of age may hunt deer
during the statewide two-day,
youth-only deer season on
October 20-21.
• There is no special season for
muzzleloader hunting in Montana,
but muzzleloaders may be used
during the general hunt.
• A crossbow may be used during
the general hunting season but not
the archery season.
• Archery equipment with electronic
devices attached or with sights
that use tritium or electronics
are illegal.
• Trail cameras are illegal to use
during the hunting season.
OVERV I E W
• Bowhunters must purchase a $10
archery stamp before applying for
an archery only hunt.
• Two-way communication devices
may not be used to hunt big
game in Montana. This rule does
not prohibit the possession or
use of two-way communication
devices for safety or other
legitimate purposes.
COMMEN TS:
Montana is known for having a
complicated application process for
non-residents. First, non-residents need
to apply for one of the Big Game, Elk,
or Deer Combination licenses in the
general draw, and then they apply
for special, limited-entry deer and/or
elk permits, both of which are due by
March 15th. For 2016, there will again
be 17,000 Big Game Combination and
Elk Combination tags and 4,600 Deer
Combination tags. You should see
leftover licenses available after the
draw again this year.
Over one-half of Montana is privately
owned, which causes some major
access issues in certain areas. It has
been a huge limiting factor for a selfguided hunter to find a solid place to
hunt. Something that Montana offers
to help with private land access issues
is the Block Management program,
which is a cooperative effort among
both private landowners and the
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Department. They have a Regional
Hunting Access Guide that lists lands
enrolled in the program and should be
available annually on August 15th.
If you are a trophy mule deer hunter,
we don’t recommend that you apply
at this time as there are very few
trophy bucks being harvested across
the state. Although Montana is a
great state to focus your efforts on
hunting trophy bull elk, you will need
to beat the odds and draw a limitedentry permit. If you are unsuccessful
throughout the West, Montana’s
General deer and elk tags are always
a solid fallback to get an opportunity
hunt under your belt.
109
M O N TA N A 2016
O V ERVI EW
MONTANA DEER AND ELK UNITS
M O N T A N A E L K P O P U L A T I O N O B J E C T I V E S T A T U S 2 015
NOTE: THESE MAPS ARE FOR GENERAL REFERENCE ONLY. REFER
110
TO THE STATE PROCLAMATION FOR EXACT BOUNDARIES.
MONTANA 2016
ELK
MONTANA ELK
O
verall, Montana elk herds are
doing great with many areas
well over the population
objectives. There are only a few
exceptions on the western half of the
state due to some major wolf predation
issues. Montana is known more as an
opportunity state for elk, but with its
high elk population, there will always
be a few giant bulls killed each fall.
There are a few limited-entry units in
the state that have the potential to
produce great bulls. Most of these
units are located on the eastern half of
the state.
On the General tag, the archery
season is a hunter’s best opportunity
to harvest a good bull. With a six-week
archery season, you are able to hunt
all phases of the elk rut. Almost all
of the forest service lands in western
Montana have good increasing
populations. The best place to see a
lot of elk and have a fun archery elk
hunt is on one of the few limited-entry
archery only hunts along the Missouri
River Breaks or the 900 permit. The
country is fairly open with grassy
draws, small canyons, and broken,
pine-timbered terrain. Access is good;
look at getting off the beaten path
or using a boat and coming in off the
river. This is one of our favorite ways
to hunt the Missouri River Breaks for
rutting bulls. Glass for elk early in the
morning, bed them down, and then
stalk in and try to slip an arrow in one
while they are posted up in their bed.
Wait for them to stand and send an
arrow flying. This is not your typical
elk terrain, which is made up of mainly
open, broken country.
Non-resident hunters who obtain a
General license and are not successful
in drawing a Special, limited-entry tag
will still have options. The first option
is that hunters may turn their General
tag back in to the state for an 80%
refund, if done by August 1st, or a
50% refund before the general season
starts. The second option you have
is to elk hunt in one of the general
units. Something to remember is
that these general units are all overthe-counter licenses for residents.
For more general elk hunting
opportunities, refer to the Montana
Opportunity section.
Montana is a fun place to hunt elk,
especially if you are a bowhunter. If
you’re willing to put the time in and
do a little research and then go out
and hunt hard, you may find yourself
hunting 260-320" bulls on a yearly
basis. We work with some of the
best outfitters in the state, so give
us a call if you would like a good
recommendation. Remember that if
you end up without a hunt planned
for the fall, Montana will most likely
end up with leftover Big Game
Combination licenses every year.
BRENDAN BURNS
111
M O N TA N A 2016
ELK
M O N TA N A’ S T O P A R C H E R Y E L K H U N T S ( N O T I N O R D E R O F Q U A L I T Y )
112
Special
Permit
Hunt
Code
2016
Archery
Hunt
Dates
Total
# of
Permits
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Draw
Odds
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Comments
250-45
Sept 3Oct 16
25
25
25
25
40
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
28
19
10
11
17
West Fork. There is plenty of good access, but the country can be rugged and holds tons of remote
areas. Made up primarily of public national forest lands. The elk population has been struggling to
maintain quantity, but the overall bull quality has been starting to show in the last couple years,
so it’s been added to the list. The archery hunt can be the best dates for killing a big herd bull,
especially during the peak of the rut. Hunt those thick timbers and drainages that are not close to
any roads. 280-330"+ bulls. 0 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
339-20
Sept 3Oct 16
60
60
60
60
60
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
10
17
14
12
12
Sleeping giant. Great access through several Block Management ranches and conservation
easements. Not a lot of public land. There is some fairly accessible country with quite a bit of
rugged wilderness areas. There is a rifle cow and spike elk hunt going on at the same time, which
can make this a frustrating hunt. The best time to rifle hunt is on opening day before the elk start
getting pushed around or onto non-accessible private land. Tag holders can archery hunt this unit.
280-330"+ bulls. 2 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
380-20
Sept 3Oct 16
80
80
120
120
120
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
88
131
109
70
84
Elkhorn Mountains. This is still one of the best units in the state. There is tons of public land that
offers excellent access. The area has a wide variety of land, starting out in mild foothills up to some
remote and extremely rough terrain. For your best opportunity at harvesting a giant bull, look at
hunting during the peak of the rut during the archery season. There will also be archery cow and
spike elk hunts in the unit at the same time, which can make for a frustrating hunt. As the season
progresses, most of the bigger bulls will be found on private land in the foothills. Having private
access can help greatly. 350"+ bulls. 4 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
410-21
Sept 3Oct 16
1,900
1,900
1,900
1,900
1,900
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
3
3
3
3
3
Missouri River Breaks — South. Valid in units 410 and 417. This is an archery only tag. Between the
two units, there is a lot of area to cover and hunt. The unit is made up of roughly 50/50 public to
private land. Fairly open, rolling sage hills, timbered ridges, and gumbo breaks make up most of
the terrain in the unit. Physically an easy hunt. Access from the Missouri River via boat can help
distance you from the crowd. If you can gain private access or hire an outfitter, it will give you a
better chance at a bigger bull. Hunting pressure can be overwhelming with 1,900 other tag holders
running around. Try getting off the road on a backpack style hunt or hitting the river via boat,
anything to help distance you from the rest will greatly increase your odds of success. 280-340"+
bulls. 185 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
620-21
Sept 3Oct 16
1,400
1,400
1,400
1,400
1,400
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
4
3
3
3
3
South Phillips. The northern side of the Missouri River Breaks. Valid in units 620, 621, and 622 but
not valid on the CMR Refuge. This is an archery only tag. These combined units give you an enormous
area to hunt and consist of mainly public BLM and state land with great access all throughout. The
unit has a large mix of terrain, consisting of sage and natural grass flats into rolling breaks country.
This is an easy physically demanding hunt. Hunting pressure will be fairly high during archery season
with 1,400 tags issued. Most hunters either hunt some of the bigger coulees toward the river or by
boat up those drainages. 280-320"+ bulls. 125 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
631-21
Sept 3Oct 16
200
200
200
200
200
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
3
3
4
3
4
Lower Missouri River Breaks — West. Valid in units 630 and 631. This is an archery only tag. This
relatively small unit consists roughly of 50% private land. There is still plenty of public land to have
a good hunt, and you’re able to hunt on the CMR Refuge. Access is excellent. The unit has a large
mix of terrain, consisting of sage and natural grass flats into rolling breaks country. This is an easy
physically demanding hunt. Low tag numbers make for an enjoyable hunt. You should focus your
efforts on unit 631 since there will be a lot less hunting pressure. This can be a fast-paced hunt
with some great rutting action. 280-320"+ bulls. 20 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
632-21
Sept 3Oct 16
100
100
100
100
100
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
4
3
3
4
5
Lower Missouri River Breaks — East. Valid in units 630 and 632. Located on the northern side of the
Missouri River. This is an archery only tag. This unit is made up of almost all public BLM and state
land, which includes the CMR Refuge. This is a great unit for a self-guided hunter looking for more
mild terrain. Focus on the roadless country in unit 632 via backpack hunt, horses, and/or boat.
Hunting pressure will be almost non-existent. 300-320"+ bulls. 10 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
690-21
Sept 3Oct 16
25
25
35
35
35
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
15
19
24
25
30
Bear Paw Mountains. Valid in units 680 and 690. One of the best units for trophy bull potential. This
unit is known as one of the best archery hunts in the state. This is an archery only tag. This unit
is made up of primarily private land, making access extremely difficult. Make sure to have private
land access lined up before applying as most of the elk are found there. Plan on hiring an outfitter
or paying a trespass fee. The unit is fairly mild, rolling, timbered foothills. Opening week and later
in the season once the bulls begin to bachelor up will be your best bet at finding a giant. 350-370"+
bulls. 1 non-resident tag issued in 2015.
798-21
Sept 3Oct 16
705
705
705
705
705
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
3
3
3
3
4
Missouri River Breaks — Prairie. Valid in unit 700. This is an archery only tag. This is an enormous
unit which consists of quite a lot of private land, but there is enough public land to still have a
good hunt. Boat access along the Missouri River can help the public hunter. This is a physically easy
hunt. If you’re able to gain access to private land, you will see higher concentrations of elk and
slightly better bull quality. Having a GPS with landownership is a must. Hunt during the peak of the
rut and into October to find a better bull. 300-340"+ bulls with a few 350"+ bulls being harvested.
68 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
900-20
Sept 3Oct 16
New in
2013
3,700
3,700
3,700
3,700
New in
2013
1 in 2
1 in 2
1 in 2
Eastern Montana. Valid in units 401, 403, 411, 412, 426, 447, 450, 500, 502, part of 510, 511, part
of 520, 530, 570, 575, part of 580, 590, part of 701, 702, 704, and 705. This is an archery only
tag. All of these units are located on the eastern part of the state. Most of the units hold a ton of
private land, making access very difficult. Hiring an outfitter can greatly increase your odds. There
is still enough public land for a self-guided hunter, but having your GPS with landownership is a
must. There are also several decent Block Management ranches that allow access. For the guy who
is willing to do his research and work hard, this can be a great tag. In most units, you have a good
opportunity at 280-320" bulls. Look at hunting in units 590, 704, and 705 for your best opportunity
at a 350"+ bull. 357 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
MONTANA 2016
ELK
M O N TA N A’ S T O P R I F L E E L K H U N T S ( N O T I N O R D E R O F Q U A L I T Y )
Special
Permit
Hunt
Code
2016
Rifle
Hunt
Dates
Total
# of
Permits
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Draw
Odds
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Comments
250-45
Oct 22Nov 27
25
25
25
25
40
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
28
19
10
11
17
West Fork — There is plenty of good access, but the country can be rugged and holds tons of remote
areas. Made up primarily of public national forest lands. The elk population has been struggling to
maintain quantity, but the overall bull quality has been starting to show in the last couple years, so
it’s been added to the list. Look into hunting opening week before the elk get a little pressure or late
in the season when harsh weather pushes those bigger bulls out of hiding and on a regular feeding
pattern again. 280-330"+ bulls. 0 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
339-20
Oct 22Nov 27
60
60
60
60
60
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
10
17
14
12
12
Sleeping giant. Great access through several Block Management ranches and conservation easements.
Not a lot of public land. There is some fairly accessible country with quite a bit of rugged wilderness
areas. There is a rifle cow and spike elk hunt going on at the same time, which can make this a
frustrating hunt. The best time to rifle hunt is on opening day before the elk start getting pushed
around or onto non-accessible private land. Tag holders can archery hunt this unit. 280-330"+ bulls.
2 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
380-20
Oct 22Nov 27
80
80
120
120
120
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
88
131
109
70
84
Elkhorn Mountains. This is still one of the best units in the state. There is tons of public land that
offers excellent access. The area has a wide variety of land, starting out in mild foothills up to some
remote and extremely rough terrain. For your best opportunity at harvesting a giant bull, look at
hunting during the peak of the rut during the archery season. There will also be archery cow and
spike elk hunts in the unit at the same time, which can make for a frustrating hunt. As the season
progresses, most of the bigger bulls will be found on private land in the foothills. Having private
access can help greatly. 340-360"+ bulls. 4 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
410-20
Oct 22Nov 27
55
55
100
100
100
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
50
81
74
43
44
Missouri River Breaks — South. One of the best hunts in the state. The unit is made up of roughly
50/50 public to private land. Fairly open, rolling sage hills, timbered ridges, and gumbo breaks make
up most of the terrain in the unit. Physically an easy hunt. Access from the Missouri River via boat
can help distance you from the crowd. If you can gain private access or hire an outfitter, it will give
you a better chance at a bigger bull. Hunt opening week to find those unpressured bulls or late in
the season when the cold weather bachelors them up. There will be quite a bit of pressure from cow
hunters, which can be frustrating. 320-350"+ bulls. 1 non-resident tag issued in 2015.
411-20
Oct 22Nov 27
200
200
200
200
200
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
7
6
8
10
7
Snowy Mountains. Valid in units 411, 511, and 530. The unit consists of primarily private land but
still has enough land for a public land hunter to get it done. The Big Snowies sit directly in the
middle of these three units and hold almost all of the public land. Access will be limited to specific
trailheads and Block Management ranches along the southern side. Made up of some rugged and
remote wilderness country. Tough, physically demanding hunt. You will find higher concentrations
of elk in the isolated Little Snowies, but access is nearly impossible unless you fly in. This is a fairly
mild hunt made up of rolling, sparsely-timbered foothills and open grasslands. 320-340"+ bulls.
16 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
417-20
Oct 22Nov 27
100
100
100
100
100
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
9
11
10
7
9
Armells Creek. A majority of this unit consists of private land, which can cause some access issues
as most of it is leased by outfitters. If you can gain private access or book with an outfitter, your
chances of harvesting a better quality bull are good. There is still plenty of public land to hunt,
and it is made up of mainly BLM and state ground. There is a solid mix of terrain, mainly consisting
of big clay coulees and rolling breaks country with some sparse juniper pockets. 320-340"+ bulls.
8 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
RUSSELL CORBETT
M O N T A N A ’ S T O P 10
TROPHY ELK UNITS:
#1
|
Unit 380-20
#2
|
Unit 690-20
#3
|
Unit 690-21
#4
|
Unit 410-20
#5
|
Unit 590-20
#6
|
Unit 798-20
#7
|
Unit 799-20
#8
|
Unit 410-21
#9
|
Unit 798-21
#10
|
Unit 900-20
113
M O N TA N A 2016
ELK
M O N TA N A’ S T O P R I F L E E L K H U N T S ( N O T I N O R D E R O F Q U A L I T Y )
114
(CONTINUED)
Special
Permit
Hunt
Code
2016
Rifle
Hunt
Dates
Total
# of
Permits
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Draw
Odds
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Comments
447-20
Oct 22Nov 27
75
75
75
75
75
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
10
13
13
15
16
Highwood Mountains. All of this unit’s public land is centrally located and completely surround by
private land, making access very difficult. Most landowners require a trespass fee. There are a few
forest service trailheads for access and several Block Management ranches available to hunt. Hunting
with horses can greatly improve your odds of finding a better bull by getting off the beaten path. The
unit is pretty rugged and has a lot of roadless country. This is a physically demanding hunt. Look at
hunting late in the season for the best opportunity at finding a giant wintering bull. 300-320"+ bulls
with a few 350"+ bulls. 4 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
455-20
Oct 22Nov 27
65
65
65
65
65
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
7
11
11
10
11
Beartooth Wildlife Management Area. They added 15 tags back to the quota this year. All public land,
but access is limited to non-motorized traffic. This is a backcountry backpack style or horseback
hunt. This can be a very weather-dependent hunt. The worse the weather, the better the elk
hunting will be as they pile into the winter range. You will have to cover some miles and look over
a lot of average bulls trying to find a bigger bull. 260-320"+ bulls with a few bigger bulls available.
1 non-resident tag issued in 2015.
590-20
Oct 22Nov 27
200
200
200
200
200
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
5
6
6
7
7
Bull Mountains. The unit is made up of private land, and access is extremely difficult, mostly because
all of it is leased by outfitters. This is a hunt where an outfitter or private access is required. Elk
populations are well over objective, and overall bull quality is on the rise, continually producing
some bigger bulls. The terrain is fairly mild, made up of rolling, sparsely-timbered foothills. Hunting
can be good all season as long as the elk stay on land you’re able to hunt. Elk tend to be fairly
nomadic in this unit. 300-340" bulls with a few 350"+ bulls. 14 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
620-20
Oct 22Nov 27
60
45
45
50
50
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
18
30
24
22
21
South Phillips. The northern side of the Missouri River Breaks. Valid in units 620, 621, and 622, but
not valid on the CMR Refuge. Rifle hunt only with no archery option included with this tag. These
combined units give you an enormous area to hunt and consist of mainly public BLM and state land
with great access all throughout. The unit has a large mix of terrain, consisting of sage and natural
grass flats into rolling breaks country. This is an easy physically demanding hunt. 300-330"+ bulls.
5 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
621-20
Oct 22Nov 27
50
50
50
50
50
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
16
30
35
27
36
Upper Missouri River Breaks — West. The northern side of the Missouri River Breaks. Only valid in
unit 621. This is for the rifle hunt only with no archery option included. The unit is made up of
completely public land, which includes the CMR Refuge. This is a self-guided hunter’s dream in some
of the easiest country available. The unit has a large mix of terrain, consisting of sage and natural
grass flats into rolling breaks country. This is an easy physically demanding hunt. 300-330"+ bulls.
3 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
622-20
Oct 22Nov 27
30
30
30
30
30
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
17
102
77
43
41
Middle Missouri River Breaks. The northern side of the Missouri River Breaks. Only valid in unit 622.
Rifle hunt only with no archery option included with this tag. The unit is made up of roughly 50%
private land, although you can hunt the CMR Refuge and other BLM and state chunks. Some people
use the river via boat to access. The unit has a large mix of terrain, consisting of sage and natural
grass flats into rolling breaks country. This is an easy physically demanding hunt. 300-330" bulls.
1 non-resident tag issued in 2015.
631-20
Oct 22Nov 27
30
30
30
30
30
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
10
34
56
24
17
Lower Missouri River Breaks — West. Valid in units 630 and 631. This is for the rifle hunt only with
no archery option included. Low tag numbers make for an enjoyable hunt. This relatively small unit
consists roughly of 50% private land. There is still plenty of public land to have a good hunt, and
you’re able to hunt on the CMR Refuge. Access is excellent. The unit has a large mix of terrain,
consisting of sage and natural grass flats into rolling breaks country. This is an easy physically
demanding hunt. 300-330" bulls. 2 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
632-20
Oct 22Nov 27
10
10
10
10
10
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
36
95
110
60
112
Lower Missouri River Breaks — East. Valid in units 630 and 632. Located on the northern side of the
Missouri River. Rifle hunt only with no archery option included with this tag. This unit is made up of
almost all public BLM and state land, which includes the CMR Refuge. Focus on the roadless country
in unit 632 via backpack hunt, horses, and/or boat. Hunting pressure will be non-existent. 320-340"+
bulls. 0 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
690-20
Oct 22Nov 27
30
30
35
35
35
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
31
63
58
58
59
Bear Paw Mountains. Valid in units 680 and 690. One of the best units for trophy bull potential. This
is for the rifle hunt only with no archery option included. The unit is made up of primarily private
land, making access extremely difficult. Make sure to have private land access lined up before
applying as most of the elk are found there. Plan on hiring an outfitter or paying a trespass fee. The
unit is fairly mild rolling, timbered foothills. Opening week and later in the season once the bulls
begin to bachelor up will be your best bet at finding a giant. 350-370"+ bulls. 3 non-resident tags
issued in 2015.
798-20
Oct 22Nov 27
250
250
250
250
250
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
15
19
15
17
18
Missouri River Breaks — Prairie. Valid in unit 700. This is an enormous unit which consists of
quite a lot of private land, but there is enough public land to still have a good hunt. Boat access
along the Missouri River can help the public hunter. This is a physically easy hunt. If you’re able
to gain access to private land, you will see higher concentrations of elk and slightly better bull
quality. Having your GPS with landownership is a must. Look at hunting the first week of the
season for unpressured bulls and the last two weeks for wintering bachelored bulls. Tag holders
may also archery hunt this unit. 300-340"+ bulls with a few 350"+ bulls being harvested each fall.
20 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
799-20
Oct 22Nov 27
175
175
175
175
225
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
21
44
42
34
33
Pine Hills. Valid in units 702, 704, and 705. These combined units make up a massive chunk of land,
but it is made up of mostly private land and access can prove difficult. However, there are still a
couple of good chunks of public land, mainly in the Custer National Forest. A lot of the bigger bulls
are found on the private land. Hiring an outfitter or gaining access before you apply can help increase
your odds of success, especially on a giant bull. Easy hunting in open, rolling country. 320-330"+ bulls
with a few 360"+ bulls available with private access. 14 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
MONTANA 2016
DEER
MONTANA DEER
M
ontana deer herds are finally
showing improvement, but
they still have a long way to
go before we see the numbers like
they once were. This year, the FWP
added quite a few mule deer doe
tags in many of the units across the
state. Since they are still in recovery
mode, we do not believe this was the
right decision and they could use a
few extra years to help with a more
prominent rebound.
This year, the rifle season dates will
once again encompass the entire rut,
starting October 22-November 27, and
the archery season will run September
3-October 16. Some of the best bucks
will continue to come from units 261
and 270, which are considered the
state’s top limited-entry units. Look
at hunting the mountainous regions
of western Montana. The areas are
thick and rugged, but they always seem
to produce a few trophy bucks. Don’t
overlook the eastern half of the state
this year. We work with some great
outfitters on the eastern portion of the
state that have been very successful for
170 class bucks, so be sure to contact us
if you’re looking to go on a guided mule
deer hunt in Montana. It is a great place
for a non-trophy hunter, especially if
you are not dead set on a 180" buck.
The key to hunting whitetail is
private land. Montana’s Block
Management program offers some
excellent access to properties that
hold good numbers of whitetails.
The other option is to hunt the
mountainous regions of western
Montana. It is tough hunting in
steep, heavily-timbered country, but
hunters harvest some great bucks
there. With the exception of unit
455-60, whitetails can be hunted
across the rest of the state with the
General license. Do a little research
before you travel to Montana for a
whitetail hunt as a lot of areas have
been affected by die-offs.
NOTE: THE DEER AND ELK PERMIT NUMBERS WE HAVE LISTED MATCH WHAT IS LISTED IN
THEIR 2016 NON-RESIDENT APPLICATION BOOKLET. THEY ARE ONLY PROPOSED UNTIL THE
COMMISSION CAN MEET IN APRIL.
ASHLEY SKILLESTAD
WHITETAIL DEER
115
M O N TA N A 2016
DEER
M O N TA N A’ S T O P D E E R H U N T S ( N O T I N O R D E R O F Q U A L I T Y )
116
Special
Permit
Hunt
Code
2016
Rifle
Hunt
Dates
# of
Permits
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Draw
Odds
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Comments:
Whitetail hunters can use their General deer tag to hunt any of these units, with the exception of
unit 455-50 where they may only hunt during the archery season.
210-50
Oct 22Nov 27
50
50
50
50
50
1
1
1
1
1
5
10
10
10
12
John Long Range. Archery and rifle options. There is a good mix of public to private land, with a
large portion of public land in the northwest corner that offers great access. There are several
Block Management ranches that can help with access. Private land can make access difficult in
some spots and can prove to be frustrating seeing as most of the bigger bucks are located there.
150-160"+ bucks. 2 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
240-50
Oct 1Nov 27
25
25
25
25
25
New in
2012
1 in 1
1 in 1
1 in 4
1 in 2
West Bitterroot. Only valid in the wilderness area in unit 240. Rifle only option. The unit is
completely made up of public land and offers excellent access through its many trailheads and
trail systems. Made up of several big, steep, and rugged wilderness creek drainages. This can be a
very tough, physically demanding hunt. A backcountry backpack style hunt is recommended. Pick
several drainages and start hiking. With deer densities super low, your best bet is to cover as much
country as possible. If we can get some harsh weather moving in, it can help tremendously with
pushing those bucks down and starting some rutting activity. 150-160"+ bucks with an occasional
180"+ buck. 0 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
250-50
Oct 22Nov 27
85
85
40
40
25
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
5
4
7
15
8
West Fork of the Bitterroot. Rifle and archery options. The unit is made up of almost all national
forest public land that has great access. The unit is fairly rugged with some great roadless areas
and is heavily timbered with a few clear-cuts. They lowered the tag quota by 15 permits this year,
which should help with producing better quality bucks. The extension of the season has helped,
giving you the ability to hunt bucks in the rut. 150-160" bucks. 3 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
261-50
Oct 22Nov 27
25
25
25
25
40
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
27
49
69
78
131
East Bitterroot. Rifle and archery options. This is still ranked as one of the best hunts in the state.
It’s about 50/50 public to private land. On the public land, there is some decent access, limited to
several roads and trailheads. A large majority of the better bucks hole up in the valley among the
farmlands. During the archery season, focus on the agricultural fields and orchards. Gaining access
or hiring an outfitter can help with locating a giant. 170-190"+ bucks with bigger bucks available.
1 non-resident tag issued in 2015.
270-50
Oct 22Nov 27
45
45
45
45
60
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
200
203
157
170
178
East Fork of the Bitterroot. Rifle and archery options. This unit had just started showing
improvements in overall quality, but the FWP decided to add 15 more permits to the quota. This
should have a negative impact on the quality comeback. Plan on passing on a ton of beautiful
younger bucks, trying to find that monster. Most years, archery season can be a great time to
pattern a monster. If you’re willing to hold out, the last 10 days of the season can be phenomenal.
160-180"+ bucks. 3 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
291-50
Oct 22Nov 27
100
100
30
30
30
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
6
6
7
17
26
East Garnet Range. Archery and rifle options. Youth hunters ages 11-15 can apply for a special
youth-only hunt in this unit. The hunt code for the youth hunt is 291-51. This unit consists of
mainly private land but offers some access to public land. However, a majority of the bigger bucks
are found on private land. Look at some of the Block Management land for additional access. With
the continued low tag numbers, bucks will continue to get some age on them. 140-160"+ bucks
with a few 180" bucks available. 0 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
300-50
Oct 22Nov 27
30
30
30
30
30
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
41
51
45
49
44
Lima Peaks. Archery and rifle options. The unit is mainly made up of national forest, BLM, and
state land that offers great access. Some private land, but it shouldn’t hinder the hunt. The
terrain is made up of rugged, open grass and sage-covered mountains. It can be a very physically
demanding hunt. Tag numbers are still low, making for a fun hunt; however, there are still quite
a few general elk hunters running around, which adds to the pressure. 140-160"+ potential. 2 nonresident tags issued in 2015.
312-50
Oct 22Nov 27
75
75
75
75
75
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
6
7
7
7
7
West Bridger. Valid only east of Springhill Rocky Mountain road. Archery and rifle options. Private
land makes up a majority of the unit, and this can cause access to be extremely difficult. Most
of the deer live on private land and/or will migrate to private land with any sort of weather or
pressure. It can be frustrating and very difficult to find quality bucks on public land. 150-160"+
bucks. 2 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
in
in
in
in
in
PETE CONGDON
WITH CHANNEL OUTFITTERS
TOM SIMPSON
WITH CHANNEL OUTFITTERS
MONTANA 2016
DEER
M O N TA N A’ S T O P D E E R H U N T S ( N O T I N O R D E R O F Q U A L I T Y ) ( C O N T I N U E D )
Special
Permit
Hunt
Code
2016
Rifle
Hunt
Dates
# of
Permits
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Draw
Odds
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Comments:
Whitetail hunters can use their General deer tag to hunt any of these units, with the exception of
unit 455-50 where they may only hunt during the archery season.
324-50
Oct 22Nov 27
25
25
25
25
25
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
63
88
56
69
69
Snow Crest Range. Archery and rifle options. The unit is completely made up of public land
with great access throughout the entire unit. The unit is made up of rugged and roadless
mountains. You will find most of the deer hanging out toward the top of the Snow Crest
Mountains. A backpack or horseback type hunt will help increase your odds of success. Archery
season can be a great time to harvest a quality buck; they will be in the few high alpine basins,
making them easier to pattern. Holding out until the weather gets bad, kicking the rut on,
brings those bigger bucks out of hiding. Elk hunting pressure is very high. 150-160"+ bucks.
1 non-resident tag issued in 2015.
441-50
Nov 7Nov 27
50
50
50
35
35
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
8
13
10
17
14
North Fork of Birch Creek. Archery and rifle options. The unit is primarily made up of private
land, although there is still plenty of public land that offers limited but good access. General rifle
hunters will hunt the whole unit until November 7th, and then they can only hunt the national
forest. Block Management offers some excellent access to trophy quality bucks. 150-160"+ bucks.
If you’re willing to hold out through some brutally cold weather, you’ll have a fair chance at a
180"+ buck. 2 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
455-60
Oct 22Nov 27
30
30
30
30
30
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
20
18
28
22
31
Beartooth Wildlife Management Area. Archery and rifle options. The hunt takes place in the Gates
of the Mountains Wilderness, which offers excellent public access. This unit is made up of big,
steep, open grass and sage-covered mountains. A backpack style hunt or having access to horses
can greatly improve your odds of harvesting either a trophy mule deer or whitetail. 150-160"+ for
mule deer and 140"+ for Whitetail. 3 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
652-50
Oct 22Nov 27
50
50
50
50
50
1
1
1
1
1
in
in
in
in
in
24
32
30
35
46
McCone-Garfield. Made up of all public BLM and state land with excellent access. The unit consists
of open, rolling sage country. After a major winter kill a few years back, this unit has shown
some major improvements this last year with a few better bucks being seen and harvested. Deer
numbers are low but improving. 150-160"+ bucks. 5 non-resident tags issued in 2015.
STEVE CARLSON WITH
MONTANA OUTWEST OUTFITTERS
117
M O N TA N A 2016
O P P ORT UNI T Y HUNT S
MONTANA OPPORTUNITY HUNTS
PROCEED WITH CAUTION – THESE HUNTS ARE NOT TROPHY HUNTS
T
here are not enough trophy tags
available to satisfy everyone’s
hunting desires. With that being
said, here are a few opportunity type
hunts to fill your hunt schedule with,
if needed.
For 2016, we are researching big game
hunts that have reasonable access,
decent success, and offer a hunter
the opportunity to take a mature
animal. Keep in mind that these are
not trophy type hunts, they just offer
another chance to spend time with
family and friends in the mountains and
give you an opportunity to put meat in
the freezer.
Montana offers excellent opportunity
for a hunter to hunt both elk and deer
on a General license. Since raising the
price on their license, the FWP has
struggled to sell out of Big Game
Combination licenses. This practically
makes them over-the-counter licenses
once they go on sale as leftovers. For
2016, you will again see a small increase
on license fees across the board. The
Big Game Combination license allows
you to hunt deer and elk in any unit in
the state that isn’t considered a limitedentry unit, giving you almost endless
options, considering almost the entire
state consists of general units.
Another awesome aspect to the
General license is that you don’t have
to choose a weapon; you can hunt both
the archery and rifle seasons, not to
mention the seasons are long, giving
you six weeks for archery and five
weeks for rifle. That’s an ample amount
of time to figure it out and get it done.
You now have the opportunity to hunt
multiple species during completely
different phases all the way through the
season. For a hunter who is willing to
do a little research and work hard, this
can turn into an exciting and fun hunt
with some trophy potential.
118
Located on the western side of the
state are several mountain ranges
that offer both great opportunity
and access to public lands for deer
and elk. The archery season can offer
better opportunity in the northern
regions of the state due to the
thickness of the timber and lay of
the land, while rifle hunting can be
tougher and very weather-dependent
in a lot of units across the state.
One of the most popular hunts is
within the Bob Marshall Wilderness,
but keep in mind that this is a total
wilderness experience and is not for
the faint of heart. This hunt takes
some serious time and preparation
and is your typical horseback style
hunt. The Bob is vast and offers great
opportunity for hunting early archery
elk followed by an early rifle hunt that
puts you chasing rutting bulls starting
September 15th.
The overall mule deer population is
doing well, and quality is showing
over the past couple of years. The
Cabinet Mountains and the mountains
that make up the Idaho border in the
Panhandle region offer up quite a bit
of public land with excellent access.
These areas are as rugged, steep, and
thick as it gets anywhere in western
Montana. There is potential for bigger
bucks and bulls, but you’re going to
have to earn them.
The Welcome Creek Wilderness in the
Bitterroot Valley can produce some
great archery elk hunting. These
areas had been struggling to make a
comeback, but numbers are steadily
increasing and some better bulls are
being produced.
Don’t overlook several of the mountain
ranges in the southwest corner of the
state, such as the Gravelly, Snowcrest,
and Greenhorn ranges. They have
tons of public land with great access.
Elk numbers are among the highest
in the state. The archery hunting
can be phenomenal at times, but
pressure can be overwhelming, and
the rifle season is also no exception.
However, if you get some deep snow
and cold weather, the hunting can get
awesome with the elk migrating to
lower country.
Montana mule deer were struggling
to make a comeback, but this past
season there were quite a few good
reports of hunters seeing a few
more mature bucks. That’s a great
sign, and we have high hopes for
the 2016 season. The FWP is now
offering hunters the chance to pick
up extra mule deer doe tags in many
of the units out east. This will more
than likely hinder further population
growth. If you are planning on
hunting eastern Montana, plan your
hunt during the rut, typically the
last two weeks of the season. The
Missouri River Breaks and Custer
National Forests are extremely
popular. This hunt gets a lot of
pressure during the rifle season, but
if you’re willing to work a little, this
can be a very exciting hunt and a good
possibility of harvesting a trophy
quality buck. Better bucks will be
found if you’re willing to get off the
beaten path.
If you’re looking to hunt whitetails,
look to the northwest corner of the
state. This is not your typical river
bottom whitetail country, but
populations are booming and quality
is there. The country is mountainous,
thick, and steep, so it can prove
difficult to get in longer steady shots.
Focus on the Kootenai, Flathead,
Lolo, and Beaverhead-Deerlodge
national forests. Some true giants are
harvested each and every season.
Plan on hunting late November during
the peak of the rut for your best
chance at a giant buck. Eastern
Montana is finally bouncing back
from the massive EHD outbreak they
had a couple years ago. There is still
great hunting in other parts of
eastern Montana, although private
access is the name of the game
out there.