Montana Mule Deer Hunting Units

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Montana Mule Deer HD 4

Montana Mule Deer HD 304

Montana Mule Deer HD 309

Montana Mule Deer HD 312

Montana Mule Deer HD 315

Montana Mule Deer HD 317

Montana Mule Deer HD 323

Montana Mule Deer HD 335

Montana Mule Deer HD 380

Montana Mule Deer HD 390

Montana Mule Deer HD 391

Montana Mule Deer HD 393

Montana Mule Deer HD 400

Montana Mule Deer HD 404

Montana Mule Deer HD 410

Montana Mule Deer HD 411

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Montana Mule Deer HD 417

Montana Mule Deer HD 419

Montana Mule Deer HD 426

Montana Mule Deer HD 445

Montana Mule Deer HD 447

Montana Mule Deer HD 502

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Montana Mule Deer HD 520

Montana Mule Deer HD 525

Montana Mule Deer HD 535

Montana Mule Deer HD 575

Montana Mule Deer HD 590

Montana Mule Deer HD 600

Montana Mule Deer HD 621

Montana Mule Deer HD 630

Montana Mule Deer HD 640

Montana Mule Deer HD 650

Montana Mule Deer HD 670

Montana Mule Deer HD 690

Montana Mule Deer HD 700

Montana Mule Deer HD 702

Montana Mule Deer HD 703

Montana Mule Deer HD 705

Montana Mule Deer HD 4 (Turkey)

Montana Mule Deer HD 7 (Spring Turkey)

Montana Mule Deer HD 703 (Big Game)

Montana Mule Deer HD 5 (Turkey)

Montana Mule Deer HD 520 (Bear)

Montana Mule Deer HD 525 (Big Game)

Montana Mule Deer HDs

Located in the northwest region of the state, the North Kootenai unit lies just south of the Canadian border. Spanning approximately 800,000 acres, this part of the Kootenai National Forest supports a modest yet stable population of mule deer. The dense vegetation in this area can make cross-country travel challenging, and finding effective vantage points for spotting wildlife can be difficult. As a result, many hunters typically utilize still hunting methods.

Kootenai National Forest encompasses thousands of acres of public land. On either side of the Tobacco River and Fortine Creek, private properties can be found near the small towns of Eureka, Rexford, and Fortine. Although the region is densely vegetated, extensive logging activities have cleared significant portions of the landscape, creating ample forage for wildlife and offering better visibility for hunters.

This hunting district extends from the town of Marion to the city of Libby in northwest Montana. Known for its stunning scenery and rugged terrain, it offers several remote hunting spots. The region is extensively crisscrossed by logging roads, providing hunters with various access points to different areas. While the vegetation can be quite dense at times, it also features better vantage points for spotting wildlife compared to some neighboring units.

Located in northwest Montana near the Idaho border, just south of Libby, this hunting district showcases steep terrain and challenging ground cover, along with a significant portion of the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness. Hunters can expect to see a healthy population of deer, although the average age of harvested animals tends to be relatively low. While some mature bucks inhabit the area, locating them can be quite challenging due to the rugged landscape. Although encounters with grizzly bears are rare, they can occur in the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, so it's important to take necessary precautions.

Situated in northwest Montana near the Canadian border and just west of Glacier National Park, this hunting district is characterized by steep terrain, numerous mountain lakes, and stunning vistas. Unfortunately, hunting success has declined significantly in recent years due to increased predation from grizzlies and wolves migrating from the park. While there remains a relatively healthy population of whitetails, those seeking mule deer will have better luck in nearby units. It's important to note that grizzly bears inhabit this area, so taking appropriate precautions is essential.

Stretching west from the northwest edge of Flathead Lake, this region is remarkably picturesque and only a few hours away from Glacier National Park. The district is characterized by forested mountains interspersed with some logged areas.

Hunt District 121 encompasses a vast region in western Montana, with the Clark Fork River running through its center and the Idaho state line marking its western boundary. In this area, hunters have the option to either backpack into secluded spots or utilize existing logging roads for access.

Hunt District 122 covers most of the Thompson River drainage in western Montana. Hunters can pursue both deer and elk during the same season using general licenses.

Situated west of Thompson Falls in northwest Montana, this hunting district encompasses most of the Thompson River drainage. Hunters can take advantage of the chance to pursue both deer and elk in the same season using general licenses.

Hunt District 124 is situated west of the Clark Fork River, near the towns of Plains and Paradise. In this district, hunters can pursue both deer and elk within the same season using general licenses.

This hunting district includes the Mission Mountain Wilderness, Swan River State Forest, and Flathead National Forest, offering hundreds of square miles of public land. Located in Lake and Missoula Counties near Polson and Flathead Lake, the area supports populations of mule deer and whitetail deer. A lottery is conducted for a limited number of permits for mule deer hunting in the Mission Mountain Wilderness.

This predominantly forested hunting district features incredibly rugged peaks. Great Northern Mountain offers breathtaking views stretching from Idaho to Glacier National Park. The district is situated along the Hungry Horse Reservoir and the South Fork of the Flathead River.

Located just south of Glacier National Park, this unit features very rugged peaks that provide stunning vistas. Road access is limited because of designated wilderness areas, meaning most locations can only be accessed by hiking or horseback riding.

This region offers a quintessential wilderness hunting experience in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, with the South Fork of the Flathead River running through it. Although much of the area is dense with underbrush, don’t let that deter you. To the east, the Sun River Game Range adjoins this district and is closed to hunting. Be prepared for a physically challenging hunt if you aim to secure a buck.

This hunting district is located in northwest Montana, nestled between the cities of Whitefish and Kalispell. It mainly consists of private lands, making access quite challenging. While mule deer numbers remain lower, if hunters can obtain permission to access private lands, they can expect excellent action, especially during the rut.

Located in the western part of the state, this area lies northwest of Missoula, close to the Idaho border. From St. Regis, you can travel west along the Clark Fork River until you reach the state line with Idaho.

This hunting district is situated in the western part of the state, directly northwest of Missoula. Hunters can pursue both deer and elk in the same season using general licenses.

This area is found in the western part of the state, northwest of Missoula. Hunters can take advantage of the chance to hunt both deer and elk in the same season using general licenses.

This unit is bounded on the west by the Bitterroot River and on the east by the renowned fishing waters of Rock Creek, encompassing the northern end of the Sapphire Mountains. It offers excellent public access, including several non-motorized areas ideal for hunters seeking short overnight excursions.

This district is located south of Interstate 90 and east of Missoula. It features thousands of acres of public land access through the Deerlodge National Forest and several Black Management Areas. Accessing private land in the northeast and southern parts of the district requires permission.

This hunting district encompasses thousands of acres within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, along with sections of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness. The Continental Divide runs along the Anaconda Mountain Range, stretching from Kurt Peak to East Pintler Peak. To the west, the Sapphire Mountains create a boundary that separates District 211 from District 270.

This hunting district spans parts of Powell and Granite Counties, featuring thousands of acres of public land through BLM, Block Management Areas, and the Deerlodge National Forest.

This hunting district includes sections of Granite, Powell, and Deer Lodge Counties, near the town of Anaconda. The Deerlodge National Forest features numerous Forest Service roads accessible to passenger vehicles, leading to various alpine lakes and ridges, which are likely to see high recreational activity early in the fall. The majority of the eastern half of the district consists of private land.

This hunting district encompasses extensive areas of Deer Lodge and Granite Counties. The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest offers thousands of acres of public access. The 6,700-acre Garrity Wildlife Management Area and the 2,000-acre Christensen Block Management Area provide opportunities for hunting mule deer. Most of the land in the eastern sections is privately owned.

The East Deer Lodge district encompasses parts of Deer Lodge, Silver Bow, and Powell Counties. It is situated east of Interstate 90, stretching from the community of Garrison in the north to Butte in the south. The eastern third of the district is covered by Helena National Forest, extending from U.S. Highway 12 to Interstate 90. Mule deer are prevalent throughout the area. The western third is largely privately owned, although thousands of acres of public access are available through Wildlife and Block Management Areas.

This district spans parts of Granite and Missoula Counties, starting at Skalkaho Pass along Montana Route 38 and extending northward along the Sapphire Mountains. It offers thousands of acres of public land through Lolo and Deerlodge National Forests, BLM, as well as hundreds of acres in Bohrnsen Ranch and Black Pine Ridge Block Management Areas. Mule deer can be found throughout the National Forest and Block Management Areas.

Located in west-central Montana, this district is about an hour east of Missoula. Established as a small sub-unit for the 2016 season, it primarily aims to manage deer on private lands. Most tags for antlered animals are allocated through a drawing, while some "B" tags for antlerless deer are available over the counter. The area is largely dominated by private land and ranches, which can present significant challenges for hunters. However, there is still public land available, offering excellent hunting opportunities.

This hunting district is found in the southwestern corner of the state, located on the west side of Highway 93. Hunters can pursue both deer and elk in the same season.

Situated in the southwest corner of the state, this unit primarily consists of public land, providing excellent access and featuring relatively gentle terrain compared to neighboring units.

This distinctive unit is situated in the west-central part of the state and is designated exclusively for archery use. It provides a traditional tree stand experience for hunting in some stunning river bottom terrain.

Situated in the west-central part of the state, on the eastern side of the Bitterroot Valley, this unit has been specifically managed to promote trophy-quality mule deer.

This distinctive hunting district is found in the west-central region of the state and is referred to as the farmlands district.

This unit is situated in the southwest corner of the state, on the east side of Highway 93. It extends from Skalkaho Pass toward the Idaho border, aligning with the Continental Divide as it heads east. The region primarily consists of public land, featuring old logging roads winding through dense and steep mountains, providing excellent access for those willing to hike. The area has been carefully managed to promote trophy-quality mule deer.

This district encompasses hundreds of square miles of Helena and Lolo National Forest, including sections of the Scapegoat Wilderness on the western side of the Continental Divide. The North Fork of the Blackfoot and Landers River, along with several other drainages, flow into the Blackfoot River as it makes its way to Missoula.

This district is well-known primarily for elk hunting, although it also offers good opportunities for deer. Located just south of the Bob Marshall Wilderness complex, the terrain is quite mountainous but provides decent access, making it a favored choice for many hunters in Montana.

Situated in the western part of the state, this small unit encompasses the Blackfoot-Clearwater Wildlife Management Area. It is subject to strict regulations for all species, so understanding the rules regarding what is permissible to hunt is essential.

Situated in the western part of the state, this small unit encompasses a narrow strip of land around the town of Lincoln. Primarily located within the city limits, it extends into the nearby wooded residential areas and agricultural fields.

Known as the Seeley-Swan area, this district is home to mule deer, and whitetails, but it is particularly renowned for its trophy whitetail. It is located north of Highway 200, extending up to the divide between Seeley and Swan Lakes, with the Bob Marshall Wilderness to the east and the Flathead Indian Reservation to the west.

This smaller hunting district extends from Ovando to Helmville, with its western boundary marked by the Ovando-Helmville cut-across road.

Located just north of Highway 90, between Drummond and Garrison Junction, this hunting district is celebrated for its trophy mule deer. The area has been effectively managed, providing excellent chances for hunters to pursue truly trophy-sized bucks.

This hunting district is located in west-central Montana, just east of Missoula. Due to its proximity to a large city, it experiences a high volume of hunters. The terrain can be challenging to navigate, but numerous logging and mining roads facilitate access. Hunters can pursue mule deer by applying for an unlimited quota permit. However, the average age of animals in this district tends to be low, which limits the potential for trophy-quality specimens.

Located northeast of Avon, this unit provides the standard montana landscape with rolling hills on ranches leading up to timbered mountains in Helena National Forest. With just a few primary access roads, hunters will need to put in some effort to venture away from the roads, as most game is located farther in.

This hunting district is located in west-central Montana, situated between Highway 200 and Interstate 90. The area predominantly consists of private land, offering very limited public access. Hunters typically seek permission to access these private properties or hunt on private lands that are part of the Block Management program. Deer are harvested in this unit, but the average age is relatively low, resulting in equally limited trophy potential.

Nestled in the stunning Gallatin Valley, this unit is bordered by the Gallatin River to the west. It offers fantastic hunting opportunities, with breathtaking views. Hunters with this general deer license have an excellent chance to to find bucks during both the archery and the rifle season.

This mountainous region is located southwest of Clark Canyon Reservoir in southwestern Montana.  The district offers opportunities for mule deer, but it is not regarded as a trophy area.

This district is positioned in the southernmost part of western Montana, extending from Interstate 15 to the Idaho-Montana border. Historically, it has yielded solid success for hunters pursuing mule deer. However, many locals believe that wolf populations have negatively impacted wildlife numbers here.

Deer hunting can be done with a general tag in Unit 304. This district encompasses parts of the Custer Gallatin National Forest and the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area. The district is home to a good number of mule deer, with about two-thirds of the population residing on private land. This allows bucks to reach maturity and a few trophy-worthy bucks are harvested in this unit every year.

This general unit is referred to as the Gallatin Valley Weapons Restriction Area and includes the suburban areas around Bozeman, Gallatin Gateway, and Belgrade. Legal weapons for hunting in this district include archery equipment, shotguns, muzzleloaders, traditional handguns, and crossbows, which can be used at any time during the general season. The northwest corner of the district, near the base of the Bridger Mountains, has the highest concentration of mule deer.

The Upper Gallatin district encompasses parts of Gallatin and Madison Counties, located south of Bozeman. It features nearly 200,000 acres of public land, including the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Lee Metcalf Monument Mountain Wilderness Area, and Cabin Creek and Gallatin Wildlife Management Areas. Hunters can find a healthy population of mule deer in this area.

This district comprises sections of the Custer Gallatin National Forest and the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area. Approximately two-thirds of the area is privately owned by large ranches, making access challenging. Mule deer are present throughout the district, but bucks will be easier to locate during the rut.

This district is divided into two distinct hunting areas: the Bridger Mountains, which require a draw tag for hunting district 312-50, and the rest of the unit, which is a general tag. Located just North of Bozeman, this unit is extremely convenient for folks flying in to Bozeman or even driving along I-90. However with that convenience, comes increased pressure at the limited access points of the Bridger Range. Private land or accessing public land through rivate land can be a big help here. Expect diverse terrain with some steep slopes and timber once you're out of the valley. 

This hunting district is situated just north of Yellowstone National Park, nestled in the picturesque Paradise Valley. Its closeness to the park provides more than just hunting opportunities; it's also a wonderful spot to unwind and take in the scenic beauty.

This unit is found in the stunning Paradise Valley, with the Yellowstone River marking its eastern boundary. It offers excellent backcountry hunting opportunities alongside breathtaking scenery. Hunters can pursue deer and elk using a general license.

This general mule deer unit covers the west slope of the Crazy Mountains and many hunters find success in the area every year. Access to the national forests can be difficult in certain areas, but this unit offers a good opportunity for hunters to pursue trophy-sized mule deer due to the high amount of private land in the area.

This district encompasses parts of Carbon, Sweet Grass, and Park Counties, located south of Livingston and Big Timber. The southern boundary is formed by Yellowstone National Park and the Wyoming state line. More than 100,000 acres of public land are available, including areas within the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and Custer Gallatin National Forests. In recent years, mule deer populations have declined due to predation.

This hunting district lies just north of Yellowstone National Park and runs alongside the Yellowstone River. Hunters can pursue both deer and elk in the same season using general licenses for each species.

This district is situated in Jefferson County, north of Butte and west of Interstate 15. Deer Lodge National Forest provides thousands of acres of public access, while additional public lands can be found near Boulder through BLM sections. The western boundary is defined by the Continental Divide.

This district encompasses parts of Silver Bow and Deer Lodge Counties, located south of Anaconda and west of Butte. It features thousands of acres of public access, including the 45,000-acre Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest (which includes the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness Area), and BLM lands. Elevations along the Continental Divide rise above 10,500 feet. Hunters can pursue elk, mule deer, and whitetails during both archery and general seasons.

This district is located in the southwest part of Montana, covering the eastern Tobacco Root Mountain range. The Tobacco Roots lie south of the Jefferson River and north west of Ennis, Montana, and are comprised of steep and rugged terrain. This is a general unit for mule deer hunters. Big game is numerous, with most deer spending the winter on private lands.

This district is found in the extreme southwest corner of Montana, extending west from the Big Hole Valley to the Continental Divide and the Montana-Idaho border. The region features mountainous public lands alongside expansive private ranches in the lower elevations and foothills.

This large district is a general tag found in Southwest Montana. Several notable mountain ranges are found within the unit including the Gravelly range to the east and the Blacktail and Ruby Mountain ranges to the west. Mule Deer populations in this area are steady. 

This expansive district is located in southwest Montana and encompasses a significant portion of the region. It features several prominent mountain ranges, including the Greenhorn and Gravelly ranges. Mule deer are present int his unit, but in lower numbers than adjacent areas.

This district is situated south of Dillon and includes the Blacktail Mountain Range along with the Sage Creek prairies. It primarily consists of public land, though some private properties can limit access in certain areas. The terrain mainly features high plains and desert landscapes, with the Blacktail Mountains forming the northern part of the district. There are healthy populations of mule deer throughout the region.

This district is located south of Jackson, with Clark Canyon Reservoir positioned in the southwest corner. There are opportunities on some high-elevation Forest Service lands. 

This district is situated in southwest Montana, close to Dillon. It mainly consists of public land with excellent access and healthy populations of deer. Numerous logging roads facilitate navigation, while ample backcountry options allow hunters to escape the crowds. Both deer and elk can be hunted here using a general tag.

Located south of Helena, Unit 335 encompasses the Boulder Mountains and the surrounding foothills west of I-15. This district offers mule deer hunting on an unlimited draw tag. The trophy quality of the deer is generally better on private land, as public land bucks often struggle to reach maturity. Some good mule deer bucks generally come out of the southeast portion of the district.

This district is positioned directly north of Helena, between the Missouri River and Highway 279. It primarily consists of private land, much of which is accessible to hunters through Montana’s Block Management Program. Some urban development in the area impacts local habitat. Deer are present year-round throughout the district.

This district is situated in the southwestern part of the state, nestled between Dillon and Butte in the Highland Mountains. It features a significant amount of public land, primarily consisting of National Forest and BLM areas. Deer can be found throughout the district and are accessible to hunters using a general tag. The area has not been specifically managed for trophy quality, so trophy bucks are uncommon.

This hunting district is located in west-central Montana, just west of Helena. Hunters can pursue whitetail, mule deer, and elk during both archery and any weapons seasons. The area experiences considerable competition due to its proximity to Helena, but there are still good hunting opportunities available. Backpack hunters may find it challenging to avoid pressure because of the network of roads in the unit; however, concentrating on steeper terrain can be rewarding for day trips. Approximately 50% of the area consists of private land, with several landowners participating in Montana’s BMA program.

This hunting district is located in southwest Montana, just northeast of Butte. Hunters can expect a high level of competition. The average age class of most animals in this area tends to be low, although harvest rates are generally better than in many surrounding districts. Those seeking trophy-quality animals may want to explore adjacent areas. The region is heavily forested, with open ground primarily found on the lower elevation fringes of the district boundaries.

Situated in southwestern Montana, Hunt District 360 lies just south of Bozeman and showcases some of the state’s most picturesque landscapes. Hunters can pursue both deer and elk using a general license.

This hunting district is located in southwest Montana, adjacent to the border of Yellowstone National Park and Idaho. The area features diverse terrain, ranging from rolling prairies to steep, rugged cliffs. Harvest numbers for both deer are quite low, which tends to discourage many hunters. While historically low, there has been a significant decline in harvests over the past 4-5 years, largely attributed to the rising wolf population. In addition to the low game numbers, hunters will also encounter a high volume of other hunters and frequent grizzly sightings.

This district is situated in west-central Montana, extending from the city of Boulder southward to I-90 and Whitehall. It encompasses a mix of land types, including BLM, state, federal, and private lands. The landscape features numerous roads created by extensive mining and logging activities. Additionally, several private properties are part of Montana’s Block Management Area (BMA) program, providing hunting access to participants.

Unit 380 is a prime location for hunting mature mule deer bucks. It is a permit-only unit, but it boasts impressive harvest numbers and good success rates each year, most of which are harvested later in the year during the rut. Mule deer are widely distributed throughout the district and can be found in good numbers.

This district is located in west-central Montana and includes the state capital, Helena. Although much of the land is privately owned, hunters still have access to some great opportunities for pursuing deer. The area features both standard archery and any weapons seasons, along with a designated weapons-restricted zone. In this restricted area, hunting for deer is limited to archery equipment, shotguns, traditional handguns, muzzleloaders, and crossbows. Notably, these weapons can be used from the start of the general archery season until the end of the any weapons season. Hunters are strongly advised to consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks regulations prior to hunting in this district, as many areas are off-limits to modern centerfire rifles.

Mule deer hunting can be done in Unit 390 with a general tag. Located in west central Montana just northwest of Bozeman, this district is made up of 90% private lands and can be a challenging place to hunt without prearranged access. The remaining 10% of public opportunities are subject to extreme pressure. 

Located in central Montana by Canyon Ferry Reservoir, this district provides a diverse hunting experience for all types of hunters. With abundant wildlife populations, excellent access, and a significant amount of public land, it promises a rewarding outing for anyone seeking to hunt in the area.

Situated in central Montana, just east of Helena, this district boasts impressive populations of mule deer.  It's an excellent choice for hunters seeking to avoid the crowds and venture into remote areas.

Mule deer hunting can be done in Unit 393 with a general tag. This district, located in southwest Montana on the east slope of the Bridger Mountains, is renowned for its high population of game animals, both deer and elk. In addition to providing excellent hunting opportunities, it is also renowned for its stunning natural scenery.

This general hunt unit is located in northcentral Montana, with nearly all land being farmed. The best thing about this district is the minimal pressure on wildlife. The land has very little topography; however, some breaks can be found along rivers and creeks.

This district is situated in north-central Montana, bordering Canada. While it predominantly consists of extensive private land, there are also significant areas of public land available. Much of the accessible hunting terrain includes private properties enrolled in Montana's Block Management Program, which can enhance hunting success. This district offers excellent prospects for deer hunting.

This district is located in north-central Montana near the Canadian border, characterized by vast open prairies and agricultural fields. Hunters will find some public access areas comprised of state and BLM lands, but many may prefer to take advantage of Montana's Block Management Program for better opportunities. The region offers excellent prospects for deer hunting.

This general hunt unit is situated in northcentral Montana, where the majority of the land is used for dryland farming. The terrain is relatively flat, with only slight variations in the form of breaks in the landscape along major rivers and creeks. Despite the relatively unvaried topography, this area is known to be home to a number of good bucks.

This compact district, located just northeast of Great Falls, features river breaks and is predominantly private land. Hunters can find good populations of mule deer, provided they have access to private properties. 

This general hunt district is mostly cattle rangeland and dryland farming ground. Located in northcentral Montana west of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, this wide open prairie should bode well for deer hunters. Disease in this unit has done a number on the buck size; however, populations are slowly recovering.

This hunt district, which is a general unit for mule deer, is located in the picturesque Missouri River Breaks region. It offers a wealth of hunting opportunities, with a large population of mule deer dispersed throughout the area. The greatest concentration of mule deer can be found on private land.

Located in the Snowy and Little Snowy Mountains of central Montana, south of Lewistown, this hunt district is renowned for its stunning natural scenery as well as its exceptional hunting opportunities. This district is also considered an opportunity area for mule deer, with general populations evenly dispersed throughout the region, with the majority of does and young bucks found on private land at lower elevations.

Hunt District 412, located in central Montana, encompasses the Judith Mountain Range and the North and South Moccasin Ranges. Mule deer can be hunted in this district using a general tag, and the population of these animals has remained strong in recent years. 

This district is found in central Montana just south of Great Falls. Excellent opportunities can be found in this district, especially since the unit is a general tag for mule deer. In general, hunters can expect a fun hunt in this district with good chances for a great experience and harvest.

The landscape is predominantly blanketed with dense pine forests and alders, varying in elevation from 3,287 feet at the Middle Fork River to 8,705 feet at Great Northern Mountain. Due to the presence of wilderness areas, road access is limited, meaning that many locations can only be accessed through hiking or horseback riding. As a result, the hunt can be quite physically demanding.

Located in the renowned Little Belt Mountains of central Montana, this district features a robust blend of dense, forested mountains and productive wintering grounds, providing excellent opportunities for hunters during the season. It offers good road access, along with some roadless regions for those seeking a more remote experience. With ample public land and thriving game populations, hunters are likely to enjoy their time in this area.

This hunting district is located on the western edge of the Missouri River Breaks, on the south side of the Missouri River. The rugged terrain provides ample opportunities for extensive foot travel and encourages hunters to spend significant time glassing the landscape. Mule deer can be hunted with a general deer license in this district.

Situated in the central region of the state, southwest of Lewistown, this district includes a combination of private lands, BLM areas, state lands, and a small section of the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Within the forest, old logging roads wind through dense timber, providing excellent access for those willing to hike.

This hunt district is situated in the central part of the state, west of Lewistown. It is characterized by long grass plains, with no mountainous terrain. Mule deer can be found throughout the district, with the majority found on private land. This is a general unit for mule deer.

Situated in the central region of the state, southwest of Lewistown, this district includes a blend of private and state lands, the Judith River WMA, and a small segment of the Lewis and Clark National Forest. The forested area features old logging roads that navigate through dense timber, providing ample access for those eager to hike.

This district consists mainly of private lands, along with some BLM and state lands. It isn't particularly recognized for its trophy potential and is best explored with the assistance of an outfitter to gain access.

Situated in the central part of the state, southwest of Augusta, this district includes a combination of private, BLM, state lands, and the Lewis and Clark National Forest. The National Forest features numerous trails and old logging roads, providing excellent access for both horseback riders and hikers.

This district is situated in the northwestern part of Montana, adjacent to the Sun River Game Preserve. With nearly all land being public, access for hunters is very good. The area provides plenty of backcountry hunting opportunities, though day hunting remains common near the main access roads to the National Forest. This region is heavily outfitted, which can lead to competition that DIY hunters may find frustrating.

Located in northwest Montana on the Rocky Mountain Front, this district is often called the Sun River WMA District. Hunting deer in this area is mainly regulated by private landowners and the rules of the Sun River WMA.

This district is situated in central Montana, just south of the Missouri River and west of the renowned “Missouri River Breaks.” While it isn’t officially part of the “Breaks,” it shares similar habitat characteristics, albeit with more agricultural land compared to the neighboring districts to the east. The landscape features extensive agricultural fields and cattle pastures, interspersed with long, rugged drainages that descend into expansive river bottoms. This area is well-regarded for its trophy mule deer.

This district is located on the Rocky Mountain Front, south of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and northwest of Choteau. While the area boasts high trophy quality for mule deer, access is restricted due to the prevalence of private land.

This district is renowned as one of Montana's legendary and historic regions for dedicated backcountry hunters. Located just west of Choteau in Teton County, it includes a significant part of the historic Bob Marshall Wilderness, situated west of the Continental Divide. The eastern boundary is marked by the impressive Rocky Mountain Front, famous for its trophy mule deer, bull elk, and bighorn sheep. This district provides exceptional opportunities for those seeking a true backcountry adventure in stunning high-country landscapes.

Situated in central Montana, east of the Rocky Mountain Front, this district provides excellent hunting opportunities alongside stunning landscapes. Hunters can pursue both deer and elk using general tags during the archery and rifle seasons.

This district is positioned just south of Great Falls in west-central Montana, forming the northern part of the Big Belt Mountain Range. Although the hunting habitat largely consists of private lands, access is notably good thanks to the Block Management Program and willing landowners. However, this area is not specifically managed for trophy-quality animals.

This district encompasses the eastern slope of the Big Belt Mountain Range along with private lands in the west-central part of the state. Highway 12 defines its southern boundary, while Two Creek marks the northern edge, with the Big Belt Hydrological Divide forming the western limit.  As a general district, the harvest of deer is primarily managed by private landowners and outfitters, with those in the Dry Range regularly taking trophy bucks. This area is not ideal for DIY hunters.

Situated southeast of Great Falls, this unit encompasses the Highwood Mountains. Much like the renowned Big and Little Belt Mountains, this range rises dramatically from the plains to the east of the Continental Divide.

In this district, you can hunt mule deer with a rifle during the peak of the rut, when bucks are actively searching for does throughout November. Focus your efforts on the foothills and agricultural areas, where you can find a high concentration of does. You can either spot and stalk from an elevated position or cover large areas to intercept a wandering buck.

This district is found in northwest Montana, nestled between the Rocky Mountain Front and the town of Choteau. The region primarily consists of riparian zones and agricultural private lands. Some large ranches in the area prohibit hunting altogether, creating safe havens for deer. Mule deer populations are robust, with trophy quality being notably high compared to many other regions in Montana.

Established in 2016, this district is located in Central Montana, just south of White Sulphur Springs. The creation of this new unit was largely influenced by the initiative for Montana's Shoulder Season, aimed at managing local elk populations. The area is predominantly private land, interspersed with scattered public parcels in a checkerboard pattern. While there are excellent hunting opportunities, access remains a significant challenge for hunters.

This district includes the Castle Mountains in central Montana, which form an isolated mountain range nestled between the Little Belt Mountains to the north and the Crazy Mountains to the south. Less than half of the area consists of public land, with only one access road leading to the National Forest. Management here focuses on providing hunting opportunities rather than promoting trophy quality. 

This district is a relatively small area located in the northern part of the Big Belt Mountains, situated between Helena and Great Falls. It lies just east of Holter Lake and encompasses the Beartooth WMA along with the northern section of the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. While the entire district is open to the public for hunting, special permits are necessary for hunting mule deer.

This district is situated in north-central Montana, east of Great Falls and west of the Missouri River Breaks. It primarily consists of private land, offering limited public access. Most of the area features moderately flat farmland and cattle grazing land, while the northern and eastern borders have more rugged terrain. The mule deer hunting in the eastern and northern parts of the district ranks among the best in the state for those with a general tag.

This hunt district, located in south central Montana, is almost entirely composed of private land and is a general unit for deer hunting. There are also good numbers of mule deer in this district.

Unit 515 is situated in south central Montana, northwest of Billings and north of Columbus. This general unit is bordered by the Musselshell River to the north and the Yellowstone River to the south. This district is home to a significant population of mule deer, with a high number of these animals being harvested each year during both the archery and rifle seasons, which are both general seasons. While mule deer numbers are lower than their historical averages, there is still ample opportunity to hunt these animals in any part of the district.

This vast hunt district in southern Montana offers a range of hunting opportunities. Unit 525 can be hunted with a general tag for mule deer. Although good bucks can be found throughout unit 525, the majority of deer are commonly found along the front country of the Beartooth Mountain Range. 

Unit 535 is located in central Montana, north of Roundup and south of Winnett. It is bounded by the Musselshell River on the south and east, and is mostly private land. The Big Snowy Mountains are located just to the north, while the Little Snowy Mountains are in the northwest corner of the unit. This unit is a draw unit for mule deer with good opportunities for a buck throughout the unit.

This general district is located in central Montana and is situated on the southeast corner of the Little Belt Mountain Range. While lower elevations offer the best chances for mule deer hunting, there are also some high elevation bucks to be found.

This district is situated in south-central Montana, nestled between the Crow Indian Reservation and the Wyoming border. The Pryor Mountains serve as a prominent feature of the area, home to various big game species. Mule deer are the main trophy animals here.

This compact unit is situated in southern Montana within the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness. The area is quite remote, making backpacking or horseback riding the primary means of hunting. Access is excellent, featuring several high mountain lakes and their associated trails. However, early snowstorms can pose significant challenges to accessibility in this region.

This expansive district is located between the Beartooth Mountains and I-90 in south-central Montana. Most of the area consists of riparian cattle lands and farmland, with limited public hunting options. Deer hunting is accessible with a general tag.

This Hunt District is situated in south-central Montana, north of Big Timber and south of Harlowton. It encompasses the northern and eastern sides of the Crazy Mountains. The area is predominantly private land, making access challenging. It is advisable to secure permission before applying for this unit.

Unit 590 is located east of Billings and south of Roundup, and includes the Bull Mountains to the north of the Yellowstone River and Pine Ridge to the south of the river. The mule deer population in this unit is strong, although the numbers are lower than their historical highs. Mule deer can be found throughout the district and can be hunted with a general tag.

This district is found in north-central Montana, occupying a vast and remote area between Montana Highway 2 to the south and the Canada-US border to the north. Mule deer are present throughout the district, with higher concentrations near private agricultural fields and brushy creek beds. While most of the prime hunting habitat is on private land, access can be quite good for those friendly hunters.

Located in northeastern Montana, this district is just north of the renowned Missouri River Breaks. Hunters can expect high harvest rates for deer, although the hunting pressure is significant and trophy quality may not match that of nearby districts. There are excellent opportunities for spot-and-stalk hunting, allowing hunters to avoid the crowds. To the north of the district is the Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge, which is restricted to migratory bird hunting only.

Situated on the north side of the Missouri River, this rugged terrain provides ample opportunities for extensive foot travel and encourages hunters to spend considerable time observing the landscape through their optics.

This hunting district is situated on the north bank of the Missouri River, featuring notable landmarks such as the Fourchette Recreation Area and the UL Bend Wilderness Area. 

Unit 630 is a general tag for mule deer hunters. If you are seeking a classic prairie mule deer hunt with good chances of finding a good buck, this district in northeastern Montana may be the perfect place for you. Located just north of the Missouri River Breaks, this district offers an enjoyable hunt with good deer numbers and decent trophy potential. 

Located in northeastern Montana, this hunting district provides good hunting opportunities for mule deer and whitetail, with a number of mature bucks taken annually. The region is predominantly agricultural land with some scattered coulees. Unit 640 is a general tag area for deer hunters.

Unit 650 is a general tag area for deer hunters in northeastern Montana. If you are hoping to hunt mule deer in this district, you can expect good chances of success and a decent opportunity to find a trophy buck. 

Situated in eastern Montana, this hunting district provides excellent hunting prospects along with stunning landscapes.

Unit 670 is located in Montana's Hi-Line region and is predominantly made up of prairie and river bottom habitat, which supports a large deer population. This unit can be hunted with a general tag. In past years, some good deer have been taken in this district towards the end of the rifle season. While giant bucks are not common in this region, they can occasionally be found, particularly when the weather is bad in Canada. The district as a whole has good mule deer numbers and overall quality.

Book your next Montana Mule Deer 401 hunt with LandTrust, the best way to hunt private land.

Season Info - 2024

General Deer License

Deer Permit: 401-50

Deer B License: 401-00

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