Big Game

Missed out on the draw? Sometimes, securing a tag can be one of the biggest hurdles to a hunt, especially during peak application times, when preparing for a hunt on a popular target species or in high-demand zones with intense competition for tags in draw hunts. 

Trophy mule deer are one of the most sought-after species of the North American big game. Unlike whitetail deer, mule deer are more commonly found in areas west of the Mississippi River and, more specifically, along the Rocky Mountain regions. 

Black-tailed deer can be found in the western parts of North America, from central California to coastal British Columbia and southern Alaska. Often referred to as the "Pacific Ghost," these creatures are extremely elusive, making harvesting one a true sportsman's dream. 

Deep in the thick coniferous forests across the Pacific Northwest lives the legendary black tail deer. They're skittish, highly adapted to the natural cover, and can slide in and out of the natural landscape with a nearly phantom-like nature. 

If you've been lucky enough to spend some time in elk regions during the rut, then you've likely heard an elk bugle.

If you’ve ever glassed a high country meadow or sagebrush flat in the desert as the sun slips below the ridgeline above, chances are you may have spotted an icon of the American West: the mule deer.

While mapping and location preparation are essential for a successful hunt, sometimes you can't beat some old-fashioned field work (i.e., keeping your eyes on the ground to look for scat).

What are hunters doing in September? It's time for elk and big game hunts!

Can I hunt elk with a bow? Yes! And if you're looking for some tips (maybe a little on the unorthodox side) to help you bring home that elk you drew a tag for, we've got John Dudley's insights for you today.

Elk are one of the largest of the deer species. A mature bull may reach heights up to 9 feet tall, including their antlers. Cows and their calves live in herds, while bulls tend to live in bachelor groups or alone.

Montana elk season dates for 2026 feature Archery (September 5 – October 18), General Rifle (October 24 – November 29), and Muzzleloader (December 12 – 20). Additional rules apply for specific backcountry units and shoulder management hunts.

Have you ever hunted moose? They are the largest animal within the deer species, with mature male bulls reaching heights up to seven feet tall with an antler span of six feet wide.