Montana Mule Deer Hunting Guides and Outfitters

Big-Sky Mule Deer Hunts: Montana’s Wild Treasure
 
Montana mule deer hunting is the stuff that dreams are made of. Local Montana guides have spent a lifetime hunting mule deer, particularly in the heart of the Missouri Breaks and Judith Mountains of Central Montana, so you’re unlikely to find a higher quality guide in another state. Calling, spot and stalk, and tree stands are the primary methods used in Montana for acquiring the mule deer. A Montana mule deer hunt is geared toward the serious archer seeking a Pope and Young-caliber trophy. With a high bull-to-cow mule deer ratio, Montana herds are unique, and a large percentage of the mule deer bulls you will see score 300 or better. You should be in good physical condition to really enjoy a wild Montana mule deer hunt, as conditions can be demanding. Additionally, many Montana guides offer only a limited number of these mule deer hunts each year, so book as soon as possible to experience the wonder of the Montana mule deer pursuit!

Montana archery season runs from early September to mid-October, and many Montana outfitters can also provide, in addition to their mule deer service, an archery antelope hunt, should this be your interest. One benefit to this is a guaranteed license for archery antelope that is obtained through the draw.

Heavy mass and tall antlers are trademarks of the mule deer in Central Montana, and a lot of mule deer hunting in this area of Montana takes place in the coulees and draws of the Breaks, and in the foothills of the Judith Mountains. The big mule deer here can be difficult to find, but are well worth the effort. Most of these mule deer bucks will be four points or better (western count) and have spreads of 20 to 28 inches, with the occasional 30-inch trophy mule deer.

Most Montana outfitters will cape your mule deer trophy, and take your meat to a local processor for you, where they will process it at your expense and ship it to your home. Rush service arrangements can usually be made for an extra fee, so that you can take your processed game home with you. There are local taxidermy services available, should you wish to leave your trophy to be mounted and shipped to you.

Colorado license applications for mule deer are due by March 15. Colorado archery and rifle mule deer permits are obtained through a special draw. Purchase of an elk license is a pre-requisite to enter the permit drawing. Deadline for application is June 1.