Quick Tips
- Gaining permission to hunt private lands will greatly increase the odds of success
- Land ownership maps and software can be extremely helpful
- Expect competition in most of the publicly accessible areas
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-140" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 140"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 310"+ |
On The Ground
This district, which was newly formed in 2016, can be found in Central Montana just south of the town of White Sulphur Springs. A push for Montana’s new Shoulder Season was the driving force behind the creation of this new unit in an effort to control elk populations in the area. The district is almost entirely made up of private lands with some checkerboarded parcels of public being scattered throughout the area. Some great hunting can be found here but access will be one of the biggest hurdles for anyone.
Because this particular unit is so new there has not been much buzz going around. Still, in years past the area has produced some good hunting but nothing too special in the way of trophy potentials.
Terrain
For the most part, hunters will have little trouble traversing this district thanks to its mostly flat terrain; gentle rolling hills, cut by shallow, yet steep, coulees and draws. Some sporadic patches of trees and vegetation can be found but the area is generally void of most vegetation above your knees. On the western end of the unit the ground will rise in higher elevation foothills with heavier vegetative cover, though most hunters will still have little to no problem navigating the terrain.
Elevations range from 5,200-6,500 feet
Vegetation
This area is primarily comprised of rolling prairie type land full of native grasses, sage, and some patches of juniper. In these open flats hunters will enjoy great glassing opportunities. On the west end of the district, the elevation will begin to climb and tree cover will increase greatly. Thick stands of ponderosa, juniper, and some red fir will be found providing the best opportunities for hunters interested in still hunting.
Access
With this area being composed almost entirely of private lands, access can be a difficult hurdle. Still, there are many parcels of state, BLM, and forest service land checkerboarded around the district and savvy hunters can still find success. Land ownership maps can make or break a hunt. Once an area has been found to hunt, most hunters will find little trouble in actually accessing the hunting grounds due to the somewhat flat nature of the terrain.
Main roads of access will include Highway 12, Highway 89, and 16 Mile Road
Gaining access to private lands will be the best bet for success
Land ownership maps recommended
Camping and Lodging
The closest modern lodging will be found in the town of White Sulphur Springs which is located north of the district. For the most part hunters will need to find lodging outside of the district and travel to hunt each day or find a section of public land where primitive camping is legal. Campsites are legal for up to 14 days on public land. Grocery and sporting good needs will likely need to be met before leaving for the hunt.
Some modern lodging found in White Sulphur Spring
Sporting goods should be purchased prior to leaving for the hunt
Camping is permitted on public lands for up to 14 days
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