This small district, found just west of Bozeman, is referred to as the Gallatin Valley Weapon Restriction Area. Here, this land is nearly one hundred percent private and can only be hunted with range restricted weapons such as archery equipment, crossbows, handguns, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. This area is primarily reserved for bears encroaching into the many agricultural lands and will not provide an adventurous hunt by any means.

This area was established more for population control and human conflict resolution, and is not an area someone looking to experience western bear hunting should be looking.

This area is almost entirely flat with agricultural lands covering nearly 100% of the hunting district. The Gallatin River flows on the far western border, providing a small reprieve from the miles of endless ag land.

With the exception of the Gallatin River valley containing large stands of cottonwood, you will encounter very little in native vegetation outside of the cultivated crops throughout the area.

With this area being comprised almost entirely of private land, a successful hunt in this district will simply boil down to “knowing a guy with a bear on his land”. Hunters will need to secure permission from landowners before hunting any bears. Land ownership software is highly recommended.

Lodging, sporting goods, and groceries can all be found in Bozeman and Belgrade.There are also several RV parks and modern campsites located throughout the area.