Quick Tips
- Use GPS with landowner status
- District can be physically demanding
- Rain and snow can make the rocky slopes very difficult to navigate
- Try Fly- Fishing on Bitterroot River and tributaries
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep | 160"-170" | 180"+ |
On The Ground
This district consists of a large portion of Bitterroot National Forest. It lies east of U.S. Highway 93 and the communities of Hamilton and Stevensville along the Sapphire Mountains providing thousands of acres of public access.
Lots of public land, no other tag holders and mature rams in the district makes this an exciting hunt. The ability to hunt during the breeding season increases your odds to harvest a mature ram. Enjoy the hunt of a lifetime.
Terrain
Skalkaho and Daley Creek and Burnt Fork of the Bitterroot River drain the western slope of the Sapphire Mountains into the Bitterroot River flowing along the western edge of the district. Bitterroot Valley follows U.S. Highway 93 from Darby to Stevensville and supports sections of tilled irrigated farms from Grantsville to Stevensville. The mountain portions are marked with numerous old logging roads. The mountains on the eastern edge slowly lose elevation until reaching the Bitterroot River.
Roughly 310 square miles
57.3% public land
Elevations from 3,321-7,586 feet
Vegetation
River and creek bottoms support cottonwoods, willows and shrubs. The areas around farmland have shrubs, willows and cottonwoods near farmhouses. As the elevation increase you will find mountain mahogany, some groves of aspen, juniper and climbing higher large stands of ponderosa pine, spruce and fir cover mountain slopes. Meadows of lush grasses break up stands of timber.
Access
U.S. Highway 93 sets the western edge while Montana Route 38 crosses the Sapphire Mountains. Many Forest Service roads and a good logging road system allow good access for tag holders. Late October and all during November be aware of snowstorms that can make secondary roads impassable.
Camping and Lodging
Bitterroot National Forest provides dispersed camping. Communities of Darby, Hamilton and Stevensville offer motels, cafés and restaurants, medical facilities and gas and diesel. Missoula is the closest regional airport serving most airlines.
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