Help Request in Montana

[StrutNut]

Looking to get out west in 2012. I do not get the opportunity to get out there that often. The last time I was out there was 2002 in CO elk hunting. It was a DIY hunt on public. I did harvest a nice cow on the 2nd to last day of the hunt. A friend and I are looking into Montana as I would like to try to tag a bull, any bull and maybe even a mule deer as I have never hunted for them. The only issue is my buddy is not a fan of the Grizz so it would have to be in an area without Grizz. Any ideas? This would be a DIY Archery hunt.

Thanks!

 

[mdunc8]

Most of the sections in the central and eastern part of the state that would fit the bill. You'd need to draw your elk/deer combo tag and then put in a for the special archery tag, which is just about a guarantee when listed as your first choice. The deadline is March 15th for your combo tag. I think the deadline is June something for the limited archery, but I may be wrong.

 

[Carrion Carrier]

Griz are very rare here, with the exception being around Yellowstone NP (and Glacier NP). If you should see one consider yourself VERY lucky.

 

[mdunc8]

Don't hunt near the purple if you don't want to see grizzlies. I wouldn't stress about it too much though.

 

[mixedbag]

I'll be out on my first trip to Montana this year.I'm also not hunting in the grizzly/wolf areas.I've had some help from a few people.If I do well,and their alright with it, I can pass on some imfo after the season.I doubt they'd have a problem with me sharing,but I'll have to make sure
I could also help you a little if you planned on a Wy. or Co. hunt.I like hunters that do it the hard way and try and help when I can.Some guys on here will probably offer you some suggestions.Get on google earth and talk with biologists to narrow things down for yourself

 

[Bambistew]

The SW corner of the state got pounded by snow (and hunters) last year. I would expect the upcoming hunting season to be pretty tough in those areas.

Don't be scared of the griz though. You're odds of tripping and impaling yourself on a broadhead are probably 10x higher than being attacked by a bear.

 

[StrutNut]

Thanks for the ideas, I live just a little too far away to scout much and have a limited amount of vacation time every year. Don't have the funds for hiring a guide so OYOA's are right up my alley.