Quick Tips
- Bring a fly rod or fishing pole, this district is surrounded by two of the best fishing rivers in Montana, the Missouri and Smith
- Look into Block Management Areas for better game numbers
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-140" | 170"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 130"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 310"+ |
On The Ground
This district is located just south of Great Falls in west central Montana and makes up the northern portion of the Big Belt Mountain Range. Hunting habitat in this area is made up primarily of private lands, but access is surprisingly good due to the Block Management Program and cooperative landowners. This area is not managed for trophy quality animals.
The elk population in this district is over two times higher than the department’s objective making it one of the better general districts in the state for pure numbers of elk. Due to this district’s proximity to the city of Great Falls and its liberal rifle season, hunting pressure is very high and quality is very low. Late season elk hunting in the south portion of the district along the Smith River can be good.
Terrain
This district takes up the northern part of the Big Belt Mountains and adjacent prairie foothills. Most of the district is made up of pine forested mountain habitat, long timbered drainages with water in the bottom. These low elevation mountains are not very steep and are very accessible through public roads.
Roughly 691 square miles
11.8% public land
Elevation from 3,300-7,900 feet
Vegetation
This portion of the Big Belt Mountains is made up primarily of more gentle and rolling pine forest and willow choked creek beds. The mountain habitat gives way to rolling foothills comprised of prairie grasses and sage, known for being great cattle grazing country. Burns in the central and southern portions of the district have created some good feed in formerly thick timbered areas.
Access
Despite being comprised primarily of private land, public access in this district is good. Most of the privately held habitat in this district can be accessed through the Block Management Program. Public access roads are great and provide easy access to most areas of the district. Hiking, horseback riding and glassing from roads are all great ways to locate game.
Get a free Block Management brochure
Camping and Lodging
This area offers many options depending on your personal preference. Backcountry style camps in the Big Belts are a popular way to camp during the archery season. Lodges near Cascade along the Missouri River offer an upscale yet rustic style camp for those who prefer that setting. Nearby Great Falls offers many services from gas and lodging, to sporting goods.
Missouri River Lodge, Sportsmens’ Retreat, The Ranch at Dearborn, Prewitt Creek Inn, Badger Motel
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