Post by: jstone on October 07, 2021, 08:04:09 AM
Post by: grundy53 on October 07, 2021, 08:34:15 AM
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Post by: knighttime25 on October 07, 2021, 08:35:06 AM
Post by: jstone on October 07, 2021, 08:36:47 AM
Post by: vandeman17 on October 07, 2021, 08:54:34 AM
Post by: ganghis on October 07, 2021, 09:04:15 AM
Post by: ajax25 on October 07, 2021, 10:17:09 AM
Post by: kramman on October 07, 2021, 01:30:26 PM
Post by: bugs n bones on October 08, 2021, 06:39:30 AM
Post by: Stein on October 08, 2021, 08:47:40 AM
Post by: Craig on October 08, 2021, 09:59:16 AM
Post by: NRA4LIFE on October 08, 2021, 10:46:59 AM
Post by: Deerelk37 on October 11, 2021, 12:23:03 PM
Post by: jstone on October 17, 2021, 07:35:36 PM
Post by: elkrack on October 17, 2021, 08:04:02 PM
Post by: Mulie87 on October 17, 2021, 08:12:14 PM
Post by: duckboy23 on October 17, 2021, 10:07:15 PM
Post by: Bigshooter on October 18, 2021, 12:49:25 AM
Post by: Dirtnap on October 19, 2021, 11:06:34 PM
Post by: spoonman on October 20, 2021, 05:36:16 AM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on October 20, 2021, 05:41:36 AM
Post by: spoonman on October 20, 2021, 07:58:37 AM
Did you do any scouting of the area?
Just on line. Going off info from a friend that goes on a regular basis.
Post by: jstone on October 28, 2021, 02:18:28 PM
Post by: gasman on October 28, 2021, 02:57:17 PM
Post by: HillHound on October 28, 2021, 03:05:13 PM
Post by: ganghis on October 28, 2021, 03:15:13 PM
Post by: jstone on October 28, 2021, 06:15:51 PM
Post by: spoonman on October 30, 2021, 08:24:47 PM
Post by: Limhangerslayer on October 30, 2021, 09:23:27 PM
Post by: spoonman on October 31, 2021, 07:32:16 AM
This is shaping up to be a warmer than average fall over there. We leave the 12th-21st. We’ll see how it turns out.
Yeah it looks like close to 50 in the day and 30 or so at night. Obviously weather can change quickly but that’s cool warm. This is the temps for 410/417 and I may check out 700 also.
Post by: JakeLand on October 31, 2021, 02:13:16 PM
Post by: carpsniperg2 on October 31, 2021, 03:23:07 PM
Post by: JakeLand on October 31, 2021, 04:10:44 PM
I really like the kuiu zip off. Quick easy way to shed the base layer after it warms up or you get to hot.was just looking at those
Post by: huntandjeep on October 31, 2021, 04:18:59 PM
This is shaping up to be a warmer than average fall over there. We leave the 12th-21st. We’ll see how it turns out.You guys have been there before . It's 5° one day then 75° the next :chuckle:
Post by: Wingin it on October 31, 2021, 08:36:31 PM
Post by: jstone on October 31, 2021, 08:37:49 PM
Post by: jstone on November 01, 2021, 09:25:34 AM
Post by: benhuntin on November 01, 2021, 09:32:22 AM
Planning on stopping in Missoula Friday night to sleep. Any good places just off of the highway that is clean?Plenty of big name hotels there, right on the freeway.
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Post by: huntandjeep on November 01, 2021, 04:15:16 PM
Planning on stopping in Missoula Friday night to sleep. Any good places just off of the highway that is clean?There's a bunch right off the Highway . That's our stop for the night when we go .
Post by: MADMAX on November 01, 2021, 04:21:04 PM
Good restaurant and nice mom and pop hotel
Missoula traffic is ridiculous
https://www.google.com/travel/hotels/Deer%20Lodge/entity/CgoI7u31n9-GhYJDEAE?g2lb=4644488%2C4317915%2C4596364%2C4605863%2C4306835%2C4371335%2C4639571%2C4401769%2C4640247%2C4659204%2C4625056%2C2503771%2C4549823%2C4258168%2C4419364%2C4624411%2C2503781%2C2502548%2C4641139%2C4270859%2C4284970&hl=en-US&gl=us&ssta=1&ap=aAE&q=deer%20lodge%20hotels&rp=EIaO06zA1KSPsAEQ6p7p_f3a7dJBEO7t9Z_fhoWCQxDlmt_F9qeouccBOAFAAEgCogEORGVlciBMb2RnZSwgTVTAAQPIAQA&ictx=1&ved=0CAAQ5JsGahcKEwiovc24pvjzAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQCA&utm_campaign=sharing&utm_medium=link&utm_source=htls&ts=CAESABogCgIaABIaEhQKBwjlDxALGBgSBwjlDxALGBkYATICEAAqCQoFOgNVU0QaAA
Post by: gasman on November 02, 2021, 06:06:18 AM
https://www.cmoninn.com/
Post by: Stein on November 02, 2021, 06:36:23 AM
Cracker Barrel or Mackenzie River Pizza are close.
Post by: spoonman on November 02, 2021, 06:37:58 AM
Post by: HillHound on November 02, 2021, 11:52:14 AM
Post by: spoonman on November 02, 2021, 11:56:00 AM
Post by: wooltie on November 03, 2021, 07:19:43 AM
Post by: mburrows on November 03, 2021, 08:31:40 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 03, 2021, 09:41:18 AM
No kidding! We need to live vicariously through them until we can get there. I did hear from a friend that is over there they saw a few bucks yesterday that were hard to pass up. First ones they have seen that they even had to consider. Mostly been small bucks with the does the last week. I’m glad to hear some of the bigger ones are starting to show some interest in the does and are moving during the day. Can’t wait to be there
:yeah:
Post by: carpsniperg2 on November 03, 2021, 09:59:09 AM
Post by: WSU on November 03, 2021, 10:05:38 AM
Looks like temps are going to plung down here in a week. Should be getting turned on soon for sure.
Still showing highs in the 40s and lows in the high 20s where I'm headed. Not sure if that's good or bad?
Post by: vandeman17 on November 03, 2021, 10:07:27 AM
Looks like temps are going to plung down here in a week. Should be getting turned on soon for sure.
Still showing highs in the 40s and lows in the high 20s where I'm headed. Not sure if that's good or bad?
That should be just fine, especially as the rut gets going. Have fun
Post by: WSU on November 03, 2021, 10:11:42 AM
Looks like temps are going to plung down here in a week. Should be getting turned on soon for sure.
Still showing highs in the 40s and lows in the high 20s where I'm headed. Not sure if that's good or bad?
That should be just fine, especially as the rut gets going. Have fun
It'll be fun regardless!
Post by: carpsniperg2 on November 03, 2021, 10:14:16 AM
Post by: jstone on November 03, 2021, 10:27:41 AM
Post by: huntingaddiction on November 03, 2021, 12:01:27 PM
Post by: dvolmer on November 03, 2021, 12:18:08 PM
Post by: HillHound on November 03, 2021, 04:20:41 PM
I would think with pre rut going and hearing a few bigger bucks starting to fall. Here in a week or so with colder weather it should click on and start getting real good.:yeah: That’s what I’m hoping for. Leaving in a week and by the looks of the weather it should be getting colder by the day
Post by: Mulie87 on November 03, 2021, 04:54:45 PM
Post by: Stein on November 03, 2021, 06:50:52 PM
Post by: spookgus on November 04, 2021, 07:57:49 PM
Post by: mburrows on November 05, 2021, 09:44:38 PM
Post by: bear on November 06, 2021, 04:08:25 AM
Post by: kramman on November 06, 2021, 07:04:34 PM
Post by: greenhead_killer on November 06, 2021, 07:17:02 PM
Post by: duckboy23 on November 07, 2021, 04:22:39 PM
Post by: kramman on November 07, 2021, 04:50:28 PM
Post by: Gentrys on November 07, 2021, 05:07:45 PM
Post by: Bigshooter on November 08, 2021, 08:10:51 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 08, 2021, 10:04:58 PM
Post by: 3nails on November 09, 2021, 06:04:14 AM
I don't remember a year that I have went to MT that I wasn't told the deer numbers were down.:chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:
Post by: knighttime25 on November 09, 2021, 07:11:07 AM
Post by: Craig on November 09, 2021, 08:13:34 AM
Post by: Southpole on November 09, 2021, 08:32:45 AM
Post by: 3nails on November 09, 2021, 10:07:47 AM
Post by: bugs n bones on November 09, 2021, 10:16:53 AM
Post by: HillHound on November 09, 2021, 10:20:53 AM
I predict fantastic hunting the last half of November with some dandy bucks being taken. If you haven't gone yet don't be discouraged by the bleak reports. A slower beginning of the season typically means a fast and furious end!
[/quote
I agree! We are leaving Wednesday for 10 days. Heard reports of lots of deer in the north east but seeing mostly smaller bucks. This is because the big guys are waiting to rut till I get there.
Post by: ganghis on November 09, 2021, 10:49:11 AM
Post by: vandeman17 on November 09, 2021, 11:10:23 AM
Post by: 3nails on November 09, 2021, 11:13:38 AM
we will be in western montana after mountain whitetails 20-28 so hoping for a little snow and bucks chasing doesMe too. What area?
Post by: greenhead_killer on November 09, 2021, 11:18:04 AM
Post by: 3nails on November 09, 2021, 02:56:57 PM
we will be in western montana after mountain whitetails 20-28 so hoping for a little snow and bucks chasing doesYour inbox is full.
Post by: vandeman17 on November 09, 2021, 03:13:59 PM
we will be in western montana after mountain whitetails 20-28 so hoping for a little snow and bucks chasing doesYour inbox is full.
made room
Post by: D-Rock425 on November 09, 2021, 03:18:00 PM
Post by: Muley Chaser on November 09, 2021, 07:03:21 PM
Post by: kramman on November 09, 2021, 07:14:18 PM
Post by: NRA4LIFE on November 09, 2021, 07:27:10 PM
Post by: dvolmer on November 09, 2021, 09:26:44 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 09, 2021, 09:48:18 PM
Been over here since the 4th and planning on leaving for home on the 11th. Interesting year with such mild weather. Deer seem to be dispersed more and only minor rut activity noticed. We’ve got 4 whitey bucks on the ground and 5 mule deer bucks on the ground. Still trying to fill our last two buck tags in the next two days. I’ll post some pictures when I get home. The mild weather is great after a few bad years of cold and snow but it does have its challenges too.any pointers for a first timer in Montana? I’m going to the north east Montana
Post by: HillHound on November 10, 2021, 08:56:00 AM
Post by: Fletch on November 10, 2021, 10:40:07 AM
Post by: huntandjeep on November 10, 2021, 11:01:58 AM
Remember you're not in Washington. 1st year I went on the 1st day I wanted to dump a big / wide 3 point . Buddy told me no . Every 4 point I saw I wanted to shoot . Buddy kept telling me no . After 7 days I killed a big mature 4 point . The 3 years after that I set in my mind I was going to better the deer I killed the year before . Which I have done .. Just go , have fun and look over alot of deer .Been over here since the 4th and planning on leaving for home on the 11th. Interesting year with such mild weather. Deer seem to be dispersed more and only minor rut activity noticed. We’ve got 4 whitey bucks on the ground and 5 mule deer bucks on the ground. Still trying to fill our last two buck tags in the next two days. I’ll post some pictures when I get home. The mild weather is great after a few bad years of cold and snow but it does have its challenges too.any pointers for a first timer in Montana? I’m going to the north east Montana
Post by: JakeLand on November 10, 2021, 12:16:11 PM
thats the plan ! Be there for a couple weeks also going to do some dog hunting while I’m there should be a blast as I haven’t killed a mule deer since 1989 as I’m a blacktail hunter at heartRemember you're not in Washington. 1st year I went on the 1st day I wanted to dump a big / wide 3 point . Buddy told me no . Every 4 point I saw I wanted to shoot . Buddy kept telling me no . After 7 days I killed a big mature 4 point . The 3 years after that I set in my mind I was going to better the deer I killed the year before . Which I have done .. Just go , have fun and look over alot of deer .Been over here since the 4th and planning on leaving for home on the 11th. Interesting year with such mild weather. Deer seem to be dispersed more and only minor rut activity noticed. We’ve got 4 whitey bucks on the ground and 5 mule deer bucks on the ground. Still trying to fill our last two buck tags in the next two days. I’ll post some pictures when I get home. The mild weather is great after a few bad years of cold and snow but it does have its challenges too.any pointers for a first timer in Montana? I’m going to the north east Montana
Post by: NRA4LIFE on November 10, 2021, 12:20:34 PM
Post by: spoonman on November 10, 2021, 01:16:59 PM
Post by: Stein on November 10, 2021, 02:40:41 PM
Another one required you pick up the permission slip in person two weeks before the hunt. No exceptions. I had four on a list two years ago and called each one probably 10 times a day for two weeks straight and never got in touch with anyone, no voicemail, just ring and ring.
If the permission is issued by MT FWP it could be ok, but I have literally not had a good experience with a type 2 area. They are probably out there, each is different, but that's my experience. The state pays them and then they can pretty much do whatever they want.
Post by: spoonman on November 10, 2021, 02:46:32 PM
Post by: Stein on November 10, 2021, 02:54:23 PM
You never know until you check them out, it's like public land, some are great and some are a total bust. The good news about T2 are that there usually won't be 15 trucks already signed in before you get there an hour before sunrise.
Scout for other species too, I found both of my go to antelope spots and one deer spot on BM properties hunting elk.
Most of the time, I have great experiences with landowners. It's the resident hunters that can be a bit grumpy.
Post by: huntandjeep on November 10, 2021, 03:30:15 PM
I'm not buying it . I have the same rigs parked at the entrance the last 4 years in a row though :dunno:
Last year I got smarter using OnX and found some State / BLM access that bordered the property . And killed my biggest buck to date off that chunk of BLM :tup:
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 10, 2021, 07:18:26 PM
Post by: ganghis on November 10, 2021, 07:32:28 PM
Post by: HillHound on November 10, 2021, 08:53:21 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 10, 2021, 09:00:16 PM
Leaving in the morning. I also saw a forecast for sustained 20 mile an hour winds with 50 mile an hour gusts. Not going to be making too many long shots on those days. Reports on rut activity from friends over there already are getting Better by the day.sweet ! I’m loaded and hitting the road after a couple hours of sleep
Post by: HillHound on November 10, 2021, 09:08:30 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 10, 2021, 09:12:26 PM
Sleep. Ha Good luck. As much as we need it we both know we’re probably not gonna do much sleeping tonight. I don’t know what it is no matter how tired I am I always am restless the night before we leave.ya no doubt 15 hour drive should be fun …
Post by: kramman on November 11, 2021, 05:20:01 PM
Post by: Stein on November 11, 2021, 06:25:38 PM
Post by: dvolmer on November 11, 2021, 06:38:24 PM
Post by: Landerfish on November 11, 2021, 08:08:12 PM
Post by: wooltie on November 12, 2021, 12:05:06 PM
Here's what I've gathered:
People who say they see 10-20 shooter 4 point bucks per day are likely glassing from their truck and covering a lot of ground.
If you park and hike into an area, I do not doubt you'll see deer. And maybe you'll see several bucks. That happened to us on a few occasions where we were in an area that just had a lot of deer...like 30-40 does and 5-10 bucks.
Just understand that everyone I've talked to who sees these high #s of bucks every day e.g. 15+ tells me the glass from the truck, cover lots of ground, drive 50-200 miles a day, and get out of the truck once they spot a buck they want to purse. I've asked them how they're seeing so many bucks because we'd walk into a spot and only see a few.
On our first trip, we hunted bma land the first day - we parked and walked in. We saw few deer, ended up shooting the second buck we saw (3x4) and called it a day for that spot.
Just saying adjust your expectations. Also depends on area you're hunting too I bet.
Post by: jstone on November 13, 2021, 09:04:52 AM
Post by: NRA4LIFE on November 13, 2021, 09:28:50 AM
Post by: spoonman on November 13, 2021, 06:17:02 PM
Post by: Craig on November 13, 2021, 06:22:40 PM
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 13, 2021, 06:48:38 PM
Post by: spoonman on November 13, 2021, 06:51:17 PM
Day one for us was 22 bucks, no shooters. Biggest was 23-24. Very windy, but bucks were rutting pretty good. Whitetail and muley both.
Where you at? I’ll take one of those small guys out of the heard for ya! 😛
Post by: JakeLand on November 13, 2021, 08:54:39 PM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:36:08 AM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:38:07 AM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:39:22 AM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:40:32 AM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:42:15 AM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:43:44 AM
Post by: dvolmer on November 14, 2021, 11:46:21 AM
Post by: Dan-o on November 14, 2021, 12:38:47 PM
Post by: elkrack on November 14, 2021, 12:55:14 PM
Awesome pics :tup:
Post by: Timberstalker on November 14, 2021, 01:28:58 PM
Post by: Southpole on November 14, 2021, 01:33:47 PM
Post by: 3nails on November 14, 2021, 05:38:54 PM
Post by: 3nails on November 14, 2021, 05:42:37 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 14, 2021, 07:49:07 PM
Post by: Buck Rub Jr on November 15, 2021, 04:32:31 PM
Post by: spoonman on November 15, 2021, 04:39:15 PM
Post by: meatwhack on November 15, 2021, 04:57:35 PM
Post by: klikboom on November 15, 2021, 05:12:56 PM
Post by: dvolmer on November 15, 2021, 05:54:37 PM
We're over here south of butte, looking for deer. How does one go about targeting whitetail? Me and buddy both have WT doe tags and I would love a good WT buck, never have got a WT before. Do you walk the brushy creeks? Do they prefer timber on the creeks? Catch them bedded?. You’re gonna have a much better chance of getting a good white tail if you see him before he sees you. Get up on a high advantage point and glass. Once you find him, then figure out the wind and make a good plan to get on him.
Post by: kramman on November 15, 2021, 06:21:14 PM
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 15, 2021, 08:43:41 PM
Post by: elkrack on November 15, 2021, 08:58:09 PM
Post by: actionshooter on November 15, 2021, 09:14:10 PM
Post by: jstone on November 16, 2021, 07:06:50 PM
Very warm and dry
Post by: JakeLand on November 16, 2021, 07:21:58 PM
Post by: jstone on November 16, 2021, 07:25:15 PM
Post by: Timberstalker on November 16, 2021, 07:34:36 PM
Windy sum bitch today
My dad and brother are hunting eastern Montana; 45 MPH sustained today, with gusts to 60. Said it was hard to glass. :chuckle:
Post by: JakeLand on November 16, 2021, 08:09:44 PM
yep north eastern it was getting at it for sureWindy sum bitch today
My dad and brother are hunting eastern Montana; 45 MPH sustained today, with gusts to 60. Said it was hard to glass. :chuckle:
Post by: JakeLand on November 16, 2021, 08:14:22 PM
I’m hiking all day until it’s dark I’ve got through next Monday still so I’m being picky maybe come Saturday I’ll drop my standards as to what I would like to get
Post by: greenhead_killer on November 16, 2021, 08:17:51 PM
Post by: HillHound on November 16, 2021, 09:30:57 PM
Windy sum bitch todayThat’s an understatement. It was miserable out there. Probably why we were the only ones I saw out of the truck. My group somehow managed to fill three tags today and even though the shots were inside 100 yards they were still almost impossible with the 60 mph winds blowing your gun to the side. Spotting scope was impossible, Even from inside a vehicle because the wind would shake the truck so bad. Our group still have one buck tag and one doe tag to fill so hopefully it’s not so bad tomorrow
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 17, 2021, 05:46:37 AM
Post by: 3nails on November 17, 2021, 07:55:57 PM
Post by: bugs n bones on November 18, 2021, 03:35:42 AM
Post by: Mulie87 on November 18, 2021, 05:00:01 AM
Post by: jstone on November 18, 2021, 06:06:52 AM
Hope you get some weather
Post by: Mulie87 on November 18, 2021, 06:47:57 AM
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 18, 2021, 07:17:37 AM
Very dry back here for sure , that wind the other day was brutal . Deer are rutting hardcranker whitetail sir!!!!! Man I want one bad!
Post by: vandeman17 on November 18, 2021, 08:36:02 AM
Very dry back here for sure , that wind the other day was brutal . Deer are rutting hardcranker whitetail sir!!!!! Man I want one bad!
You want a whitetail? :peep:
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 18, 2021, 08:52:06 AM
Post by: vandeman17 on November 18, 2021, 10:12:38 AM
Absolutely. I mean not enough to actually go hunt one though :chuckle:
That makes more sense. Opportunistic stud whitetail 8)
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 18, 2021, 10:17:12 AM
simple as that right!?!?! :chuckle:Absolutely. I mean not enough to actually go hunt one though :chuckle:
That makes more sense. Opportunistic stud whitetail 8)
Post by: vandeman17 on November 18, 2021, 10:41:50 AM
simple as that right!?!?! :chuckle:Absolutely. I mean not enough to actually go hunt one though :chuckle:
That makes more sense. Opportunistic stud whitetail 8)
Its how a lot of people kill bears and cats so it could work on whities too :chuckle:
Post by: Mtnwalker on November 18, 2021, 10:54:12 AM
simple as that right!?!?! :chuckle:Absolutely. I mean not enough to actually go hunt one though :chuckle:
That makes more sense. Opportunistic stud whitetail 8)
Its how a lot of people kill bears and cats so it could work on whities too :chuckle:
It happens. I vaguely remember somebody killing a good one on a wilderness elk hunt a year or two back... pretty cool from what I recall
Post by: bugs n bones on November 18, 2021, 11:27:52 AM
it wasn’t opportunistic , I watched him for two days and have pictures of him alive before I decided to kill himsimple as that right!?!?! :chuckle:Absolutely. I mean not enough to actually go hunt one though :chuckle:
That makes more sense. Opportunistic stud whitetail 8)
Its how a lot of people kill bears and cats so it could work on whities too :chuckle:
It happens. I vaguely remember somebody killing a good one on a wilderness elk hunt a year or two back... pretty cool from what I recall
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 18, 2021, 11:35:37 AM
Post by: bugs n bones on November 18, 2021, 11:49:25 AM
Nobody is saying yours was opportunistic :tup:
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 18, 2021, 08:21:47 PM
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 18, 2021, 08:24:32 PM
Post by: D-Rock425 on November 18, 2021, 08:24:46 PM
Tag is punched in Montananice deer.
Post by: D-Rock425 on November 18, 2021, 08:29:38 PM
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 18, 2021, 08:42:07 PM
All loaded up and ready to roll out on a solo hunt after work tomorrow. Should have 4 or 5 full days to find an elk and a deer.good luck, rut just really kicked in!
Post by: bugs n bones on November 18, 2021, 09:49:00 PM
Post by: Duckslayer89 on November 18, 2021, 11:34:32 PM
Tag is punched in Montana
Bruiser! Nice work
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 19, 2021, 05:23:50 AM
Post by: bear on November 19, 2021, 10:45:32 AM
Post by: kramman on November 19, 2021, 11:37:08 AM
Post by: bear on November 19, 2021, 12:02:34 PM
Post by: jstone on November 19, 2021, 01:38:59 PM
Post by: vandeman17 on November 19, 2021, 01:43:57 PM
Post by: bear on November 19, 2021, 02:53:26 PM
So do they move out somewhere or die off from the drought
That’s a question I’m gonna wanna ask a biologist. Not sure where they could move too
The rut was definitely earlier than the last 2 years for us
Post by: Mulie87 on November 19, 2021, 06:42:17 PM
Post by: kramman on November 19, 2021, 07:31:40 PM
Post by: Mulie87 on November 20, 2021, 04:39:59 AM
Post by: Craig on November 20, 2021, 02:06:18 PM
Post by: vandeman17 on November 20, 2021, 04:21:40 PM
Post by: Limhangerslayer on November 20, 2021, 04:46:54 PM
Not seeing much in central MT. Small bucks all day. Nothing worth shooting. Couple more days of looking and it might be tag soup year.
Only takes that one!
Post by: spoonman on November 20, 2021, 05:11:30 PM
Post by: Gettin Birdie on November 20, 2021, 05:50:46 PM
Not seeing much in central MT. Small bucks all day. Nothing worth shooting. Couple more days of looking and it might be tag soup year.
Please take a doe if so, the doe/buck ratio is ridiculous, I have passed on many bucks I'd have taken in WA, because I can in this state, and plan on shooting a doe last day if I don't see a buck worth taking. Does to bucks where I'm at is like 20/30 - 1, ridiculous, so many small bucks, want to let em grow up big. Anywho, good luck on finding a stellar buck!
Post by: Craig on November 20, 2021, 06:22:19 PM
Post by: Craig on November 20, 2021, 07:10:10 PM
Post by: MuleySniper on November 21, 2021, 06:09:20 AM
Post by: KB88 on November 21, 2021, 07:29:59 AM
Post by: idaho guy on November 21, 2021, 10:06:36 AM
Tag is punched in Montana
Nice buck thicker than your usual Mt buck 👍
Post by: Mulie87 on November 21, 2021, 07:50:34 PM
Post by: wooltie on November 22, 2021, 07:02:24 AM
But we got a cow in the timber, which was awesome and the highlight of our trip.
Got in lots of good hunting and experiences in some great terrain.
Came home with two bucks and a cow.
Post by: Craig on November 22, 2021, 02:05:50 PM
Post by: Mulie87 on November 22, 2021, 08:14:33 PM
Post by: 1Guy on November 23, 2021, 01:27:47 PM
Post by: HillHound on November 23, 2021, 02:25:21 PM
Post by: D-Rock425 on November 24, 2021, 05:19:43 AM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 24, 2021, 05:32:20 AM
Post by: bear on November 24, 2021, 07:00:53 AM
Post by: Mulie87 on November 24, 2021, 08:07:51 AM
Filled my tag on a 4x4 whitetail. It's been rough down here south of Broadus. Deer #s seem down and little sign of the rut, to go along with multiple rigs at every pc of blm or state land there is. Not like it used to be here. Will have to find a different hunt area if I'm going to continue to hunt montana. Good luck to y'all who are still out after it.
My wife and I were saying the exact same thing yesterday on our way home from the SE. I’ve hunted Ekalaka area last 6yrs and this year was eerie. I’ve never seen the lack of deer in the area; a lot 1-3pts, but not what it used to be, even the locals agreed. I would like to see the the post season population count to see if i’m right. Wife and I talked about finding a new area in MT to hunt if we go back. I suspect that the enormous number of out of state hunters put a hurting on the heard coupled with MT resident hunters. Just my observation.
Blue tongue in fact hurt the whitetail population as well. They ised to be everywhere, and now they are void from their normal areas.
Post by: dvolmer on November 24, 2021, 12:31:05 PM
I've been hunting Northeastern Montana for 9 years now started out really good but the last two years we're full of non-resident plates everywhere, I've talked to a few locals and they said the same thing. most being from Washington cannot believe anyone would drive that far for a deer. I have a friend that lives there and I stay with him Is the only reason why I drive that far. seen the deer numbers in the last 3 years just totally fall through the floor I've heard complaints from people that also hunt Malta about the same thing. even the locals where I hunted they said the numbers of nonresidents have doubled since last year no reason why we are not seeing any deer the ones that are left are on private property. Seeing lots of people shoot small bucks. I wish I had a counter when I went home I swear no lie one third of the vehicles had Washington plates from northeast Montana to Missoula and yes I am also from Washington. I find this interesting since the non-resident total tag quotas have not changed in many years. Maybe it’s that the area you are hunting has sparked a lot of interest in the last few years I guess. But total out of state hunters should not have changed.
Post by: idaho guy on November 24, 2021, 12:54:01 PM
I've been hunting Northeastern Montana for 9 years now started out really good but the last two years we're full of non-resident plates everywhere, I've talked to a few locals and they said the same thing. most being from Washington cannot believe anyone would drive that far for a deer. I have a friend that lives there and I stay with him Is the only reason why I drive that far. seen the deer numbers in the last 3 years just totally fall through the floor I've heard complaints from people that also hunt Malta about the same thing. even the locals where I hunted they said the numbers of nonresidents have doubled since last year no reason why we are not seeing any deer the ones that are left are on private property. Seeing lots of people shoot small bucks. I wish I had a counter when I went home I swear no lie one third of the vehicles had Washington plates from northeast Montana to Missoula and yes I am also from Washington. I find this interesting since the non-resident total tag quotas have not changed in many years. Maybe it’s that the area you are hunting has sparked a lot of interest in the last few years I guess. But total out of state hunters should not have changed.
:yeah: resident hunters should have increased quite a bit with the massive influx of out of staters moving to montana but the non resident numbers cant increase with a fixed qouta that hasnt changed
Post by: BigCutty3 on November 24, 2021, 01:29:27 PM
Post by: Jonathan_S on November 24, 2021, 02:03:32 PM
I've been hunting Northeastern Montana for 9 years now started out really good but the last two years we're full of non-resident plates everywhere, I've talked to a few locals and they said the same thing. most being from Washington cannot believe anyone would drive that far for a deer. I have a friend that lives there and I stay with him Is the only reason why I drive that far. seen the deer numbers in the last 3 years just totally fall through the floor I've heard complaints from people that also hunt Malta about the same thing. even the locals where I hunted they said the numbers of nonresidents have doubled since last year no reason why we are not seeing any deer the ones that are left are on private property. Seeing lots of people shoot small bucks. I wish I had a counter when I went home I swear no lie one third of the vehicles had Washington plates from northeast Montana to Missoula and yes I am also from Washington. I find this interesting since the non-resident total tag quotas have not changed in many years. Maybe it’s that the area you are hunting has sparked a lot of interest in the last few years I guess. But total out of state hunters should not have changed.
:yeah: resident hunters should have increased quite a bit with the massive influx of out of staters moving to montana but the non resident numbers cant increase with a fixed qouta that hasnt changed
Keep in mind, that's just one guy
Post by: idaho guy on November 24, 2021, 02:33:11 PM
Post by: Mtnwalker on November 24, 2021, 02:38:04 PM
Post by: 257 Wby Mag on November 24, 2021, 03:08:05 PM
What’s changed is the speed and availability of information on the bma’s and other public land, the internet and go hunt et al explaining every detail, Montana resident population booming, onx revealing all the public blocks big and small, everyone yacking about it to their buddies when they get home, podcasts and videos hyping it up detailing areas and habitats, most the good private (most of which is leased or family/friends only) being refugia for the herd, and a severe drought that further pushed animals into said prime habitat. The resource can’t sustain a 5 week rifle rut hunt with long range rifles, spotters, and cell phones. Still decent opportunity, especially for those used to hunting in Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and every other state you see represented over there. But to those that have been going for more than a few years, the writing is on the wall as the decline is very apparent. Be sure to watch all this years u tube videos on people whacking animals, high fivin, making their buck and getting free swag off the back of the resource. We are our own worst enemy. In a few years when you can’t draw a tag, please don’t complain. Rant over
You are EXACTLY right. I just shake my head at the info folks mention on these sites, ie; towns etc. worst year in 20 years.
Post by: Mulie87 on November 24, 2021, 04:49:24 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 24, 2021, 04:59:44 PM
Post by: MADMAX on November 24, 2021, 05:10:44 PM
Post by: gasman on November 24, 2021, 05:36:27 PM
Post by: Goose74 on November 24, 2021, 06:14:24 PM
What’s changed is the speed and availability of information on the bma’s and other public land, the internet and go hunt et al explaining every detail, Montana resident population booming, onx revealing all the public blocks big and small, everyone yacking about it to their buddies when they get home, podcasts and videos hyping it up detailing areas and habitats, most the good private (most of which is leased or family/friends only) being refugia for the herd, and a severe drought that further pushed animals into said prime habitat. The resource can’t sustain a 5 week rifle rut hunt with long range rifles, spotters, and cell phones. Still decent opportunity, especially for those used to hunting in Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and every other state you see represented over there. But to those that have been going for more than a few years, the writing is on the wall as the decline is very apparent. Be sure to watch all this years u tube videos on people whacking animals, high fivin, making their buck and getting free swag off the back of the resource. We are our own worst enemy. In a few years when you can’t draw a tag, please don’t complain. Rant over
Post by: furbearer365 on November 24, 2021, 09:48:44 PM
Post by: 257 Wby Mag on November 24, 2021, 10:19:14 PM
Post by: Mulie87 on November 24, 2021, 10:53:21 PM
Post by: dvolmer on November 24, 2021, 11:52:07 PM
Plain and simple fact of the matter, their gonna have to “pick a weapon”, stop the cheap “Montana native tags”, for starters…. Agree! Your either a resident or your not. Steep non-resident license tag cost increases will be next. Massive increase in interest and applicants along with massive heavy inflation is an equation for non-res tag cost increases. And I believe they will be substantial. Might cut non-res quota and increase tag costs and not loose any revenue.
Post by: kramman on November 25, 2021, 03:54:17 AM
Post by: idaho guy on November 25, 2021, 05:07:40 AM
Plain and simple fact of the matter, their gonna have to “pick a weapon”, stop the cheap “Montana native tags”, for starters…
You mean stop the non resident native tags and come home to hunt tags? What does that fix? Those are meant to keep family hunting camps and traditions alive and a lot of those hunters do have access to private family property and don’t add pressure to public. Getting rid of those tags to sell to other non residents just makes Montana more money it doesn’t help the deer or crowding. full disclosure My wife and I can get them but I have not bought one recently because my son and I have to go at random times and it’s hard to plan around other family. We also hunt a different place than family still living in Montana these days. I can see your point with some form of choosing a weapon but most non resident hunters go over once for rifle season already but it would spread out all the new resident hunters. For mule deer they should probably go with a shorter season ending 11-1? and draw for late season. I would personally hate that but it would really help the mule deer, I think the whitetail will bounce back quickly .I grew up in Montana hunting in the 80’s to early 90’s and it’s unreal how much it has changed but the regulations are exactly the same today as they were then. Montana does probably have some painful changes to make unfortunately but getting rid of non resident native tags is not one of them. That just seems like jealousy that someone born in the right state gets a better deal 😂😂 All the better western states have issues right now the first being WAY too many NEW RESIDENTS. The second is social media promoting western hunting and making it the thing to do. Now everyone from the Midwest and east want to hunt out west. Not a problem for the state but a problem in getting a tag
Post by: idaho guy on November 25, 2021, 05:20:54 AM
Plain and simple fact of the matter, their gonna have to “pick a weapon”, stop the cheap “Montana native tags”, for starters…. Agree! Your either a resident or your not. Steep non-resident license tag cost increases will be next. Massive increase in interest and applicants along with massive heavy inflation is an equation for non-res tag cost increases. And I believe they will be substantial. Might cut non-res quota and increase tag costs and not loose any revenue.
Should we also stop landowner deer tags? Or just the special tags you can’t get? The non resident native tags have a good purpose of keeping family hunting camps and traditions going. Or should Montana get rid of all those to sell to the flat bill army guys who just researched Montana on go hunt and it’s 1 of 10 states he puts in for because it’s on his “radar” now? I would rather have family continue to hunt together.
Post by: cbond3318 on November 25, 2021, 05:49:12 AM
Plain and simple fact of the matter, their gonna have to “pick a weapon”, stop the cheap “Montana native tags”, for starters…
You mean stop the non resident native tags and come home to hunt tags? What does that fix? Those are meant to keep family hunting camps and traditions alive and a lot of those hunters do have access to private family property and don’t add pressure to public. Getting rid of those tags to sell to other non residents just makes Montana more money it doesn’t help the deer or crowding. full disclosure My wife and I can get them but I have not bought one recently because my son and I have to go at random times and it’s hard to plan around other family. We also hunt a different place than family still living in Montana these days. I can see your point with some form of choosing a weapon but most non resident hunters go over once for rifle season already but it would spread out all the new resident hunters. For mule deer they should probably go with a shorter season ending 11-1? and draw for late season. I would personally hate that but it would really help the mule deer, I think the whitetail will bounce back quickly .I grew up in Montana hunting in the 80’s to early 90’s and it’s unreal how much it has changed but the regulations are exactly the same today as they were then. Montana does probably have some painful changes to make unfortunately but getting rid of non resident native tags is not one of them. That just seems like jealousy that someone born in the right state gets a better deal 😂😂 All the better western states have issues right now the first being WAY too many NEW RESIDENTS. The second is social media promoting western hunting and making it the thing to do. Now everyone from the Midwest and east want to hunt out west. Not a problem for the state but a problem in getting a tag
1 word; Kansas and the Dakotas
Sleeper states, only 50’ of elevation gain across two states and mule deer a plenty.
:chuckle:
Post by: idaho guy on November 25, 2021, 10:14:35 AM
Plain and simple fact of the matter, their gonna have to “pick a weapon”, stop the cheap “Montana native tags”, for starters…
You mean stop the non resident native tags and come home to hunt tags? What does that fix? Those are meant to keep family hunting camps and traditions alive and a lot of those hunters do have access to private family property and don’t add pressure to public. Getting rid of those tags to sell to other non residents just makes Montana more money it doesn’t help the deer or crowding. full disclosure My wife and I can get them but I have not bought one recently because my son and I have to go at random times and it’s hard to plan around other family. We also hunt a different place than family still living in Montana these days. I can see your point with some form of choosing a weapon but most non resident hunters go over once for rifle season already but it would spread out all the new resident hunters. For mule deer they should probably go with a shorter season ending 11-1? and draw for late season. I would personally hate that but it would really help the mule deer, I think the whitetail will bounce back quickly .I grew up in Montana hunting in the 80’s to early 90’s and it’s unreal how much it has changed but the regulations are exactly the same today as they were then. Montana does probably have some painful changes to make unfortunately but getting rid of non resident native tags is not one of them. That just seems like jealousy that someone born in the right state gets a better deal 😂😂 All the better western states have issues right now the first being WAY too many NEW RESIDENTS. The second is social media promoting western hunting and making it the thing to do. Now everyone from the Midwest and east want to hunt out west. Not a problem for the state but a problem in getting a tag
1 word; Kansas and the Dakotas
Sleeper states, only 50’ of elevation gain across two states and mule deer a plenty.
:chuckle:
They are on my radar now! 😂
Post by: cbond3318 on November 25, 2021, 10:41:16 AM
Plain and simple fact of the matter, their gonna have to “pick a weapon”, stop the cheap “Montana native tags”, for starters…
You mean stop the non resident native tags and come home to hunt tags? What does that fix? Those are meant to keep family hunting camps and traditions alive and a lot of those hunters do have access to private family property and don’t add pressure to public. Getting rid of those tags to sell to other non residents just makes Montana more money it doesn’t help the deer or crowding. full disclosure My wife and I can get them but I have not bought one recently because my son and I have to go at random times and it’s hard to plan around other family. We also hunt a different place than family still living in Montana these days. I can see your point with some form of choosing a weapon but most non resident hunters go over once for rifle season already but it would spread out all the new resident hunters. For mule deer they should probably go with a shorter season ending 11-1? and draw for late season. I would personally hate that but it would really help the mule deer, I think the whitetail will bounce back quickly .I grew up in Montana hunting in the 80’s to early 90’s and it’s unreal how much it has changed but the regulations are exactly the same today as they were then. Montana does probably have some painful changes to make unfortunately but getting rid of non resident native tags is not one of them. That just seems like jealousy that someone born in the right state gets a better deal 😂😂 All the better western states have issues right now the first being WAY too many NEW RESIDENTS. The second is social media promoting western hunting and making it the thing to do. Now everyone from the Midwest and east want to hunt out west. Not a problem for the state but a problem in getting a tag
1 word; Kansas and the Dakotas
Sleeper states, only 50’ of elevation gain across two states and mule deer a plenty.
:chuckle:
They are on my radar now! 😂
:chuckle:
Post by: cougfan79 on November 25, 2021, 11:14:31 AM
Post by: idaho guy on November 25, 2021, 11:18:51 AM
Feel free to correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't there a new law signed this year to benefit outfitters? As a result of the law the state created a 1 time only addition of 3000 nonresident tags for the 2021 season. Could be why so many nonresident vehicles were spotted.
I forgot about that but I think You are correct. I believe they also will give 2 preference points to guided hunters where diy hunters only get 1 per year. Will be even tougher to draw especially with you guys posting all these nice bucks!!! 😂
Post by: trophyhunt on November 25, 2021, 11:23:36 AM
Post by: idaho guy on November 25, 2021, 11:43:14 AM
I’ve never seen so many posts on MT deer hunting than I have this year, it is now on my research list. But it also sounds like I’m a few years too late and drawing tags in the future might get pretty tough. Love/hate, mostly hate what the internet has done to hunting.
Montana sucks. Most of the positive posts are just to keep hunters out of their Washington honey holes. Don’t fall for it 😂
Post by: Landerfish on November 25, 2021, 12:22:57 PM
Deer count seemed to be down as well as big bucks in the area we were hunting.
As far as the hunting pressure issue I didn’t notice a increase , but the hunters we spoke with were not having much success. Not sure if we will be heading back next year or not.
Post by: Mulie87 on November 25, 2021, 02:44:35 PM
Post by: spoonman on November 25, 2021, 02:49:29 PM
It sound like those are the exact opinions of most of us that hunted MT this year. It’s a lot of money for a 1-3pt buck. My wife and I hunt SE Mt and are looking for another area of MT or a different state completely.
Nebraska is a sleeper state for mule deer!
Post by: 257 Wby Mag on November 25, 2021, 04:58:20 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/MptK8mfS/F2-A9-C996-E2-B1-41-D8-B931-5-D9-C9-A740-DAF.png) (https://postimg.cc/21bfQvxc)
Post by: Craig on November 25, 2021, 07:52:51 PM
Post by: Craig on November 25, 2021, 08:10:58 PM
Post by: Craig on November 25, 2021, 08:11:34 PM
Post by: JakeLand on November 25, 2021, 08:31:57 PM
Post by: Stein on November 26, 2021, 02:51:17 PM
Not sure what the deal was but there were WAY less deer than any of the last 7-8 years I have hunted. Less deer everywhere even by town.
I'm not sure if it was full moon related, different crops or some disease. MT's hunting outlook looked good, so winter kill wasn't the reason.
I didn't run into farmers to see if they knew but will be checking in with the bio to see what the story was so we can adjust for future years.
Weather was great, family were great and we had a great hunt overall.
Post by: Brushbuster on November 26, 2021, 04:22:26 PM
Post by: Jimmy33 on November 26, 2021, 04:27:46 PM
Saw about the same amount of deer as usual (1-4 bucks/day) this year. Didn't see any really big bucks though. I got this guy on the last hour of the last day. He & his harem were headed for the haystacks. Due to the drought & locusts, the rancher needed to buy 2/3 of this winter's hay when he normally would raise all he needed. He was happy he had one less mouth to feed this winter. :tup:Nice work sir!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: vandeman17 on November 26, 2021, 05:34:04 PM
Post by: idaho guy on November 26, 2021, 05:56:40 PM
One less wolf in Montana now so that is good 8)
If you shot a wolf we need pictures 😄
Post by: vandeman17 on November 26, 2021, 07:00:21 PM
One less wolf in Montana now so that is good 8)
If you shot a wolf we need pictures 😄
I will try to post story and pictures tomorrow but here is a teaser
Post by: idaho guy on November 26, 2021, 07:56:33 PM
One less wolf in Montana now so that is good 8)
If you shot a wolf we need pictures 😄
I will try to post story and pictures tomorrow but here is a teaser
Fair enough 👍 good job !!
Post by: Duckslayer89 on November 26, 2021, 08:24:29 PM
One less wolf in Montana now so that is good 8)
If you shot a wolf we need pictures 😄
I will try to post story and pictures tomorrow but here is a teaser
Awesome work
Post by: go4steelhd on November 29, 2021, 11:53:13 AM
Had plenty of opportunities to shoot medium size bucks and a couple close calls with good bucks. Held out and me and my son are eating tag soup. Numbers were way off from normal. Hopefully we left a couple bucks to enjoy the rut.
I hate reading that you didn't find good bucks this year, but I have a ton of respect for hunters that are willing to eat a tag for a chance of letting some bucks make it though.
I also fully understand guys paying $1k for tags wanting to knock a buck down before they head home.
Post by: huntandjeep on November 29, 2021, 06:10:28 PM
Good on you Craig . I know a guy that's been back there the past 4 years and came home every year with a tag in his pocket. Figures after 10 days of Motel , fuel , food he's at 2kish a year. Just never sees a buck that he sees as a trophy, says why kill a Washington size deer in Montana, when I have them in my back yard. I respect his thoughts , but that would be a hard pill for me to swallow . Luckily I've never had to do that yet , but that's not saying I wouldn't in the future . I find it funny all the resident Montana hunters talk down on out of state hunters for shooting anything they see . Then they show up at the motels at night with a bed full of 1x2s and 2x2s :chuckle:Had plenty of opportunities to shoot medium size bucks and a couple close calls with good bucks. Held out and me and my son are eating tag soup. Numbers were way off from normal. Hopefully we left a couple bucks to enjoy the rut.
I hate reading that you didn't find good bucks this year, but I have a ton of respect for hunters that are willing to eat a tag for a chance of letting some bucks make it though.
I also fully understand guys paying $1k for tags wanting to knock a buck down before they head home.
Post by: huntingaddiction on December 02, 2021, 11:42:52 AM
Post by: Buckewe on December 02, 2021, 03:47:15 PM
Post by: Buckewe on December 02, 2021, 03:48:04 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 02, 2021, 03:52:12 PM
My first whitetail
Dear Lord Buckewe. That's a helluva a one to start with... :tup:
Post by: WAcoueshunter on December 02, 2021, 04:04:12 PM
My first whitetail
Dear Lord Buckewe. That's a helluva a one to start with... :tup:
:yeah:
Man, just love the color on that deer. Super light coat against a dark red rack!
Post by: vandeman17 on December 02, 2021, 04:10:49 PM
My first whitetail
great buck
Post by: bigmacc on December 02, 2021, 04:27:22 PM
My first whitetail
Man thats a cool looking buck, congratulations :tup: That guy must have spent a lot of his life in some dark, thick, dense places with that antler color, looks like they never seen the sun :chuckle:
Post by: Buckewe on December 02, 2021, 04:36:59 PM
Post by: jjness11 on December 13, 2021, 07:59:37 PM
Post by: elkrack on December 13, 2021, 09:01:35 PM
Post by: Karl Blanchard on December 14, 2021, 07:08:28 AM
Post by: Gentrys on December 14, 2021, 10:09:51 PM
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on December 15, 2021, 06:34:11 AM
Post by: idaho guy on December 15, 2021, 05:51:39 PM