-MONTANA  ELK HUNTS-

How do I obtain a Montana Hunting License?
Some licenses are sold over the counter and some require an application and participation in a draw. Please check the Montana State site for more details. We have a process that is used for application... please do not apply without contacting us first, so we can place you in our system.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
1420 E. 6th Ave
P.O. Box 8009
Helena, MT 59604-8009

What is a Bear Identification Test?
Montana is home to both Black Bear and Grizzly, Grizzly is a protected species, so we want to make sure you know the difference, and bag the right animal.

Can I Bring a Friend or Family member along who isn't hunting?
Yes, you can however there will be additional fees for room & board. Cost will be determined on whether they ride along during the hunt, or stay at the lodge, please call us for specific prices. If they don't want to go along on the hunt, there is a variety of sights and activities to keep them busy, but they will need to provide their own transportation. Some of the area activities include; Quinn Hot Springs, Bison Range, Glacier National Park, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, plus local events depending on the season, which could include fairs, festivals and rodeos.

All non-hunters must have a contract with us, they can not just show up!

What is your success rate?
This is honestly difficult to put into a specific number, since success, will vary greatly depending on weather, terrain, individuals physical ability, shooting skills, and the hunters willingness to hunt every day of their hunt. Some years we have been lucky enough to have near perfect kill rates and others have had low kill rates.

How do we access hunting areas?
We prefer to use horses, but many options may be used including but not limited to horses, 4-wheel drive vehicles, and walking. No matter what form of access is used hunters should be prepared to walk at least 5-8 plus miles a day.

What is the hunter to guide ratio?
Hunts are priced on (2) hunters to (1) guide, however if you want a (1) on (1) hunt please let us know, we can do this, but additional fees may be required. Please keep in mind that hunters might be transported in larger groups to specific areas, but will then be divided up for the actual hunt.

How long are your hunts?
We typically hunt dark to dark, so please be prepared for long days. Also a 5 day hunt for example means you will hunt 5 days, so depending on your travel options you may need 7-9 days or more; this will give you a day or two to reach Montana, hunt for 5 days and then a day or two to return home. 

What is included in the hunt?
Hunts include your guide, meals, lodging and transportation to and from the Missoula, Montana airport. (Additional costs may include but are not limited to your License fees, processing, taxidermy costs and gratuity.

Arrival & Departure Times

Your arrival time will be no earlier than 2 pm the day before your hunt starts and your departure time shall be no earlier than 8 am the day after your hunt, unless otherwise determined with us. Please verify your hunt dates with us prior to making travel plans. Early departure flights may require you to stay at a motel night of your last hunt day.

Tips for Guides, Cooks & Packers
The standard tip for a guide is 15% to 20% of the cost of your hunt.
Remember to also bring a tip for the cooks and packers as well.
The amount you give reflects your appreciation for your guide’s hard work and effort.

What caliber of gun should I use?
Hunters usually use a variety of calibers, and most are fine, it basically comes down to what you are the most comfortable with. Type of ammo and grain are also up to the individual hunter and what they feel comfortable with and are the most accurate with. (165 is pretty average)

What kind of weather and temperatures should I expect?
Weather can be extremely variable depending upon the season you choose, it can range from sun, wind, rain or snow, so you should dress in layers and be prepared with waterproof outer layers, and moisture wicking base layers.
The following covers average temperatures by month for our area. (January 21-35), (February 22-41), (March 27-52), (April 32-60), (May 37-69), (June 44-77), (July 47-86), August 45-86), (September 38-74), (October 31-59), (November 27-42), (December 19-33).

What happens after I kill an animal?
We will skin, cape and pack out your animal for you in addition to taking your meat to the processor if and when available. We can also deliver to our local taxidermist if you choose.

Average costs of processing your animal are: (Costs depend on how you get it cut, and if you have jerky or sausage made)

• Elk: $250 – $350

• Mule Deer: $50 – $150 

Taxidermy costs will vary according to size of animal an style of mount wanted.

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