Quick Tips
- The archery elk season can be very crowded
- Great fishing along the Missouri River System
- Mobile backpack camps can be helpful to escape hunting pressure
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | N/A | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 140"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 310"+ |
On The Ground
This is a relatively small district in the northern portion of the Big Belt Mountains between Helena and Great Falls. The district lies just east of Holter Lake and is made up of the Beartooth WMA and the north portion of The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. The entire district is accessible to the public for hunting, although special permits are required to hunt mule deer and to rifle hunt elk.
This area is a designated wintering area for elk. Public access restrictions take place in the winter to allow elk to freely migrate into the district. Bull harvest is available on limited draw permits only and elk populations have skyrocketed in this district in the last 10 years. Mule deer bucks can only be hunted by drawing a limited entry permit and trophy quality is good relative to other areas in Montana.
Terrain
This is rough, remote country made up of steep mountain canyons. The entire district is mountainous and some portions are designated wilderness area. Drainages vary from steep and wide to steep and tight with large burns and deadfall areas.
Roughly 64 square miles
99.5% public land
Elevation from 3,500-7,500 feet
Vegetation
This high wilderness country is made up of Douglas fir and ponderosa pine forest, much of which has been burned creating large open ridges of deadfall and new growth grasses and wildflowers. Creek bottoms are often choked with willows while cottonwood and oak trees dot the canyon floors.
Access
Public access is excellent. Much of the district is roadless which makes it a popular area among horseback and backpack hunters. Road access to the district is good and there are several options depending on what part of the district you are trying to access. The lake borders the west end of the district and boat access is a popular choice for hunters looking to escape the crowds.
Four-wheel drive is recommended
Boat access is available through Holter Lake
Camping and Lodging
Helena and Great falls are the nearest major hubs to this district providing anything you might need from food and fuel to last minute sporting goods. Public campgrounds are numerous along the west side of the district on the Missouri River system and Holter Lake. Backcountry style camps are the most popular choice for elk hunters in this district.
Wolf Creek, Craig and Holter Lake all offer public campgrounds
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