Montana is famous for big-game hunting and trophy opportunities, but hunters shouldn’t overlook the wide range of hunting opportunities available across Southeast Montana. From deer and elk to mountain lion, waterfowl and upland birds, the region offers hunters the chance to experience wide-open country, abundant wildlife and unforgettable days in the field.

While some big-game hunts require drawing a coveted permit, Montana offers a variety of general licenses and over-the-counter opportunities. Whether you’re planning a fall deer hunt or a bird-hunting adventure, Southeast Montana’s rolling prairies, river corridors, agricultural fields and rugged breaks provide plenty of country to explore.

Pack your gear, bring your hunting dogs, and head to Southeast Montana. You’re sure to bring home more than your harvest; you’ll leave with memories of Montana’s big sky, wide-open spaces and the stories that come from a day in the field.

Deer & Elk Hunting

For hunters pursuing big game, Southeast Montana offers opportunities to pursue both deer, elk and antelope across a diverse landscape of prairie, river bottoms, agricultural land and rugged breaks.

Montana offers several seasons and hunting opportunities for deer and elk, including archery, general, shoulder and muzzleloader seasons. General deer and elk licenses are available over the counter, while additional B licenses and other opportunities may be available through drawing or over-the-counter purchase depending on the hunt and hunting district.

Whether you’re planning an early-season archery hunt or heading into the field during the traditional fall season, Southeast Montana provides plenty of space to pursue big game and enjoy the solitude of the region.

With expansive public lands, private lands enrolled in access programs and experienced local outfitters, Southeast Montana gives hunters plenty of ways to build a memorable big-game adventure.

Migratory Bird Hunting

Southeast Montana may be known for its dry, wide-open landscapes, but its rivers, reservoirs, ponds, marshes and wetlands provide important habitat for migrating waterfowl.

Each fall, ducks and geese make their way south from breeding grounds farther north, including Alberta and Saskatchewan. As temperatures drop and northern waters begin to freeze, new waves of migrating birds move into Montana, creating opportunities for hunters throughout the season.

Successful waterfowl hunting takes patience and preparation. Hunters who spend time studying bird behavior, scouting habitat and paying attention to weather patterns can find rewarding opportunities across the region. Hunters who spend time studying bird behavior, scouting habitat, and paying attention to weather patterns can find rewarding opportunities across the region. And with Southeast Montana’s expansive landscapes, there’s plenty of room to find your own stretch of country.

Hunting Tip: Make the most of your day by starting in the blind at daybreak, when waterfowl are most active. After a morning in the field, take a break for brunch, change into your upland gear and spend the afternoon exploring the prairies for pheasant, grouse or partridge.

Upland Game Birds

Southeast Montana’s agricultural fields, grasslands and prairie landscapes provide excellent habitat for upland game birds, making the region a favorite destination for bird hunters.

The ring-necked pheasant is one of Montana’s most popular upland game birds, but it isn’t the only species hunters may encounter. Depending on location and season, hunters can also pursue grouse, partridge and wild turkey.

One of the best parts of an upland hunt is the experience itself. Follow your bird dog through tall grass and grain fields, walk the edges of shelterbelts and draws, and enjoy the anticipation of what might flush around the next bend. With miles of open country to explore, every day in the field offers something different.

Turkey Hunting

Southeast Montana offers opportunities for both spring and fall turkey hunting, with wild turkeys found along river corridors, wooded draws, cottonwood bottoms and prairie edges. Spring brings the excitement of calling in a gobbler, while fall offers a different experience as turkeys move through their seasonal habitat.

Whether you’re a seasoned turkey hunter or looking to add a new species to your Montana hunting adventure, Southeast Montana’s combination of open prairie, river bottoms and wooded habitat provides plenty of country to explore.

Plan Your Southeast Montana Hunting Trip

Ready to plan your Montana hunt? Start with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Hunting Resources for current hunting regulations, season dates, licenses, permits, hunting-district information, maps and access resources. FWP’s Hunt Planner can also help hunters explore hunting districts and identify available opportunities.

Because hunting regulations, season dates, quotas and license availability can change, and opportunities vary by hunting district, always review the current regulations before your trip. Montana also offers programs that expand access to private lands for public hunting, including Block Management and other hunter-access programs.

If you’re looking to make the most of your Southeast Montana hunt, consider booking a local guide or outfitter. Experienced professionals can help you navigate the landscape, identify productive habitat and make the most of your time in the field.

You’ll also find rural lodging properties throughout Southeast Montana that welcome hunters and, in many cases, their four-legged companions. After a full day outside, settle in, clean your gear and head into town for a hearty meal. Pull up a chair at a local watering hole, swap stories from the day and raise a glass to another Montana adventure. Search for your perfect accomodations here.

Come for the hunt. Stay for the stories.