A: We conduct our premier Montana elk hunts within the vast, wild landscapes encompassed by two legendary National Forests: the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. These aren't just small tracts; we're talking thousands of acres of rugged mountains, remote timbered basins, and sprawling backcountry – classic Montana elk habitat where we are fully permitted to operate. Our intimate knowledge of these specific public land areas allows us to guide you deep into prime elk country for an authentic wilderness hunting experience.

You can hunt elk with us using either Archery or Rifle. The archery season in September gives you that intense, up-close rut action. The key thing there is hitting the state's March 31st application deadline to draw your license. Our general season rifle hunts offer that classic crisp-weather mountain experience, but they book up quickly. We're currently filling slots for 2026. Whichever hunt you're leaning towards, planning well ahead is essential. Let us know what you have in mind.

We handle the main camp setup to keep you comfortable. We provide quality wall tents, sturdy cots, & sleeping pads. Plus, figure on eating well – all your meals are covered while you're hunting with us. Your main focus should be bringing your personal hunting gear. That means your rifle or bow you're dialed in with, ammo or arrows, good binoculars and rangefinder, a reliable day pack, broken-in waterproof boots (critical!), and appropriate layered clothing for Montana's unpredictable mountain weather – think base layers up to quality rain gear and outer layers. Don't forget any personal items or medications you need. As for alcohol in camp, you're welcome to bring your own if you like, but we ask everyone to be sensible and respectful – generally limit it to one bottle of your preferred type per hunter. We can send over a detailed recommended gear list once you're booked to help you pack right.

You get five full days of hunting with us – that's dedicated time in the field chasing elk. To make sure you get those solid five days, we factor in one day before the hunt starts to get you into our mountain camp and settled in, and then one day after your last hunt to pack up and head out. So, figure on the whole trip taking seven days from the day you arrive until the day you depart.

We're guiding elk hunts from the first bugles of September right on through the late season snows. Our archery hunts start September 1st, covering the entire month and the peak of the rut – think screaming bulls and up-close action. Then, come late October (usually starting the third or fourth Saturday of the month), the general rifle season opens up and runs for five weeks, typically into late November. That’s your traditional mountain rifle hunt, often in colder weather conditions. We offer hunts during both of these prime windows, giving you two distinct Montana elk experiences to choose from.

A: Absolutely, we think it's great to get young folks involved in hunting the right way. Here in Montana, the main things are state rules: kids need to be at least 12 years old to be eligible to apply for and hold their own big game license like elk or deer. Also, Hunter Education certification is mandatory for pretty much all young hunters these days (anyone born after Jan 1, 1985 needs it). Safety and making sure they're properly licensed and prepared is key. 1 If you're considering bringing a young hunter, give us a call and we can discuss the details for your specific situation.  https://www.hunter-ed.com/montana/hunting_law