Quick Tips
- BLM maps, Forest Service maps and land ownership programs for your GPS or phone can help hunters navigate private and public lands
- Great bird hunting can also be found in this area
- Tire chains recommended during as this area can see heavy snowfall and large drifts
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 170"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 130"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 290"+ |
On The Ground
This district lies in north central Montana along the Canadian border. Large tracts of private land make up most of the district, but a decent amount of public lands can be had. Most of the huntable lands are comprised of private lands participating in Montana's Block Management Program which can play a key role in success. While this district has little to offer for hunters seeking trophy elk, they can enjoy some great deer hunting opportunities.
While this region has been hit hard with EHD in recent years, hunters are still enjoying great deer hunting opportunities. A move by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to halt antlerless deer harvests has started the rebuilding process to recover from the disease. While bull elk hunting is strictly limited to a permit system, hunters can still take antlerless elk on a general tag and will be something to consider.
Terrain
This area is largely comprised of agricultural and prairie type lands with a handful of trees found along a few streams and creeks. In the north central portion of the district the elevation will begin to rise into a few isolated mountains where steep ridges and moderate tree cover can be found. Optics will ultimately be a key part of this hunt, as any high elevation point will offer views for miles.
Roughly 1,811 square miles
9.5% public land
Elevation from 3,100-7,000 feet
Vegetation
This area is comprised almost entirely of native grasses and sage. Small patches of cottonwood and pine can be found around creeks, rivers and lakes. Look for isolated patches of juniper to be found in some of the steeper coulees.
Access
Access can be easy, yet confusing at times. Due to the large amount of agricultural development in the area country roads are very abundant. With the extreme mixture of public and private lands hunters will also want to invest in land ownership maps as well as the typical BLM and Forest Service maps. Large tracts of private lands are also enrolled in the BMA program which will provide a unique point of access into private lands and landlocked public lands.
Forest Service, BLM or GPS maps can be beneficial to navigate private and public lands
Main travel roads of interest should include Highway 2 and Interstate 15
Camping and Lodging
There are many lodging options in the surrounding cities of Chester and Shelby. RV parks can also be found nearby. Groceries and other amenities can be found in any of the towns surrounding the district.
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