#5 on this list
Hunting District 530
Montana, USA
HD 530 covers parts of the Tobacco Root Mountains, offering a mix of timbered slopes, aspen pockets, and open country. Much of it is within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. This unit provides a diverse hunting experience, with elk moving between timbered bedding areas and open feeding grounds. Access is good from towns like Sheridan and Pony. The 'Tobaccos' are known for producing quality bulls, especially for hunters who can glass effectively and then make a move. Terrain can be steep and rocky, but generally less extreme than some wilderness units. Expect moderate hunting pressure. General elk tag. Fees for licenses and stamps.
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#6 on this list
Hunting District 330
Montana, USA
HD 330, located in the Crazy Mountains near Big Timber and Wilsall, is a challenging but rewarding unit. It's characterized by very steep, rugged mountains and significant public land within the Gallatin National Forest. Elk often hold in remote basins and dense timber. Access requires dedicated effort, with many trailheads leading to long hikes. This is not a unit for road hunting. Hunters willing to backpack in and spend multiple days in the backcountry have a good chance at mature bulls. Weather can change quickly, from warm fall days to significant snow. Grizzly bears are present. General elk tag. Expect standard Montana hunting license and stamp fees.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Hunting District 530 | Hunting District 330 |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Tobacco Root Mountains, SW Montana | Crazy Mountains, Montana |
| Primary Land Use | Public (Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF) | — |
| Species | Elk | — |
| Access Points | Near Sheridan, Pony | — |
| General Tag | Yes | — |
| Terrain | Timber, open parks, steep sections | — |
| Primary Land Type | — | Gallatin National Forest |
| Key Terrain | — | Steep, rugged mountains; dense timber; alpine basins |
| Access | — | Numerous trailheads, long backcountry hikes |
| Primary Species | — | Elk |
| Wildlife | — | Grizzly bears, black bears, moose, deer, mountain goats |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Hunting District 530
- Diverse public land with extensive elk habitat
- Good access from nearby towns and forest roads
- Potential for quality bulls for diligent hunters
- Varied terrain keeps elk patterns dynamic
- General elk tag often applicable
- Terrain can be steep and physically demanding
- Moderate hunting pressure in accessible areas
- Weather can be highly unpredictable and severe
- Success often requires extensive scouting and hiking
Hunting District 330
- High potential for mature bulls for dedicated hunters
- Extensive public land offers freedom to roam
- True wilderness experience; minimal road hunting pressure
- Stunning mountain scenery and solitude
- Extremely demanding physical challenge
- Severe weather changes are common and dangerous
- Grizzly bear presence requires constant vigilance
- Not suitable for hunters seeking easy access or road hunting
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