Beartooth Wilderness, Montana Elk Hunting Trips

With an abundance of elk, moose, mule deer, white-tail deer, bear, and bighorn sheep, Montana is a big game hunter's paradise. There are many wilderness areas throughout Montana that issue thousands of permits per year. Different outfitters are licensed to guide hunting expeditions in different areas of Montana. Once you've decided where you'd like to hunt and what you'd like to hunt for, it is worth your while to hire a guide if you've never hunted for big game in the West before.

Licenses and Certificates

When applying for a hunting license in Montana, all hunters must show a certificate of completion of a hunter's education course. Courses taken in Montana or any other state or province, are accepted. However, hunter education is not required if you were born before January 1, 1985.

There are many different hunting licenses out there. There are licenses for different game, hunting areas, and hunting methods: bow vs. riffle. Make sure you apply for the correct one. Your outfitter will tell you what area they are licensed to guide in. They will also tell you in what order to list your license preferences. They will almost always advise you to list limited permitted areas as your first choice to ensure less hunters hunting in the same area as you. Outfitters will also explain the differences between the many different licenses, for example: Big Game Elk/Deer Combination General vs. Big Game Elk/Deer Combination Outfitter Sponsored. The deadlines and fees are different from permit to permit. Some permits are over-the-counter, while others are only offered through special drawings. It is good to get your application in early. For more information on licenses and certificates, contact the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.

Choosing an Outfitter

With so many outfitters, it can be tough to choose one. It is wise to go with an outfitter who has been recommended to you by friends and family. Older guides are usually more experienced than younger guides. Don't be afraid to ask outfitters about the success rates of their big game hunts. Outfitters who guide small parties of two or less are typically more successful than ones who lead large groups. Ask your outfitter how much horseback riding experience is required. Feel free to contact any outfitter's references or repeat customers.