Quick Tips
- Tire chains and a tow strap recommended as this area can experience impassible gumbo during periods of rain
- To avoid the crowds look for large tracts of roadless ground and connecting strips of public
- With the lack of vegetation, water sources can prove very fruitful during periods of hot weather
- Glassing will be very important on this hunt and a spotting scope and/or binoculars mounted on a tripod are highly recommended
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 140"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 130"+ |
| Elk | 260"-310" | 330"+ |
On The Ground
This district, found in northeastern Montana, lies just north of the famous Missouri River Breaks. Hunters will find high harvests rates in both deer and elk though the pressure will be very high and the trophy quality will be lower than surrounding districts. All of the elk hunting in this area will be done through a permit that must be drawn. There is great opportunity for spot and stalk hunts here as hunters can escape the crowds. On the north side of the district lies the Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge which is open to migratory bird hunting only.
This area continues to see large numbers of hunters between the three elk permits and general deer tags. The average size of both bulls and bucks has dropped over the years and it is recommended that anyone with one of the elk permits hunts the adjoining districts when looking for the bull of a lifetime.
Terrain
This district offers something for just about everyone other than thick forested slopes found on the western side of the state. Large flat expanses of agricultural fields, deep coulees perfect for stalking and high vantage points. Hunters often underestimate this county because at first glance you can see for miles. As you begin to head to your destination you will quickly find that your two mile hike just turned into a two hour affair of navigating steep draws strewn with loose rock and twisted sage and juniper. Spot and stalk hunters will find themselves at home here even with the lack of ground cover.
Roughly 1,715 square miles
44.6% public land
Elevations from 2,400–3,100 feet
Vegetation
On the northern end of the hunting district large patches of Cottonwood and wheat grass will be found in the small section of the Milk River Valley. Covering nearly the entirety of the district will be large expanses of wheat grass and rock, huge sage flats and scattered patches of juniper.
Access
This hunting district contains less public land than most surrounding districts, yet access still remains fairly good. The biggest struggle for most hunters will be the hundreds of acres of land not accessible due to corner hopping laws in the state of Montana. It’s is highly recommended that all hunters obtain a copy of the USFS and BLM maps for this area. Hunters should also consider using land ownership maps. This area can produce some impassible stretches of gumbo on the roads during periods of rain and a heavy tow strap and tire chains will be a necessity.
Camping and Lodging
Modern lodging conveniences can be found on the north side of the hunting district in the town of Malta, but hunters wishing to hunt the southern and central portions of the district should plan on traveling if they wish to sleep in a bed or look into other primitive options. Camping on BLM and state lands is permitted for up to 14 days. Groceries can be bought in Malta and there is a small sporting goods store in the town of Saco, though most gear needs will need to be met prior to leaving for the hunt.
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