This hunting district is found in west central Montana, with the capital city of Helena in its southern region. Almost the entire eastern half of the unit is covered in private land making access difficult, whereas the the western side is mostly public. Good bears can be found throughout this area as well as great hunting opportunities for any hunter.

Like most of western Montana, hunters can expect to come to this area with a decent shot at bears in the 5’ and up range.

This hunting district has just about everything in terms of terrain. On the eastern half of the unit, you will find primarily low lying private lands comprised of very little tree cover, native grasses, and planted agricultural crops. The central portion of the unit has seen less agricultural activity and has a slight uptick in elevation variances, though tree cover will only marginally improve with the exception of some isolated pockets. The western end of the area houses steep, rising ridges covered in huge tracts of mature forest. Throughout the forested slopes will be large, open meadows covered in native grasses that will provide great glassing areas. Most of the western half is so heavily timbered that glassing opportunities can be hard earned. When honing in on areas to check out it will be important to mark glassing locations where you can glass as much ground as possible.

Like most of western Montana, you can expect to encounter a wide array of vegetation throughout this unit. Most of the low lying lands will be comprised of native grasses, sporadic sage, and an occasional stand of ponderosa pine or cottonwood. In the upper elevations you can expect to find a large takeover of white pine and lodgepole, with patches of subalpine fir found in the highest areas.

Most of the eastern half of this hunting district is made up of private lands, making access difficult. There are quite a few private landowners in the northern half of the unit that are participating in the BMA program which can be a great option to consider. The western half of the district is made up of a pile of public land and can be a great option for those looking to distance themselves. There are a lot of roads found throughout the public lands, it will be imperative to take note of these before hiking miles into a spot that can be driven to through a back route. Still, there are plenty of places to find solitude for those who are willing to hike.

A lot of lodging options will be available in Helena with primitive and modern camping options found throughout the unit. There are several sporting goods stores found in Helena for any last minute sporting goods needs, as well as plenty of grocery and supply stores.

Roughly 926 square miles

29.4% public land

Elevations range from 3,900-6,800 feet

Main roads for access include Highway 93, Interstate 15, Highway 279, and Birdseye Rd

Glassing spots can be hard to find in some areas

Land ownership maps and software can be time saving

Bear tags are not valid until 24 hour after the time of purchase, travelling hunters should keep this in mind

Modern lodging options can be found throughout Helena