Big Game Species

Moose in winter flurries
© Wild by Nature Gallery
The mountains of southwestern Montana, eastern Idaho and northwestern Wyoming provide habitat for a large diversity of big game animals.
Deer, antelope, moose and elk hunting are popular among locals and visitors alike. The more adventurous may seek
out the elusive bighorn sheep and mountain goat. Predators such as bears and mountain lions are also big game to be hunted in the greater
Yellowstone ecosystem. Wyoming. Idaho. and Montana hunting outfitters and guides are numerous,
providing everything from a rustic backcountry experience to comfortable hunting lodge
accommodations. more info
Montana in particular has a well-developed reputation for providing some of the best big game hunting opportunities in
the United States. Montana hunting provides a large amount of tourism revenue to the state each year.
Big game can be found in a variety of habitats throughout the region. Grasslands and brushy areas in lower elevations and agricultural areas provide
habitat for herds of whitetail, mule deer and pronghorn antelope.
Elk inhabit both forest lands and open grassland at a variety of elevations. Moose frequent marshy areas and thick growth riparian undergrowth.
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are typically found above timberline deep in wilderness areas.
Big game are hunted using a variety of methods, from rifles to bowhunting; by horseback, four-wheeler, and on foot.
Early September marks the earliest season for big game hunting - bowhunting.
Rifle season begins in mid-October in most areas, and lasts for about a month. Most game is taken
in areas that are easy to get to by vehicle, but much hunting takes place in remote mountain areas accessible only
by horse or on foot. This type of terrain makes up a great deal of our public hunting lands.
West Yellowstone, MT Weather
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