Hunt District 417 in Montana offers a range of opportunities and considerations for hunters, particularly with its general tag system that applies to multiple zones such as 621 and 680. Access to hunting on the breaks national monument is straightforward, with no special regulations beyond standard prerequisites, which appeals to those planning to hunt these areas. Drawing odds can differ, and it appears purchasing a preference point can significantly enhance your chances, especially for nonresident hunters navigating the complexities of Montana's system. A common sentiment among hunters is a need for clarity on the specifics of draw processes and applicable tags, particularly for elk and deer, but overall, the region seems to promise ample opportunity if approached with a well-informed strategy.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 130"+ |
| Elk | 290"-300" | 340"+ |
High
Low
This hunt district is on the western edge of the Missouri River Breaks and on the south side of the Missouri River. This very broken terrain offers plenty of opportunity to cover many miles on foot, and spend a whole lot of time behind your optics. Mule deer hunting can be done with a general deer license but bull elk is a draw for both archery and rifle hunting.
Compared to other hunting districts in the Missouri River Breaks, this district does not produce the quantity of elk, but there are a few good bulls. This is a general mule deer district with high hunting pressure; most bucks are harvested at a younger age class.
This hunt district is on the western edge of the Missouri River Breaks and on the south side of the Missouri River. This very broken terrain offers plenty of opportunity to cover many miles on foot.
Inside this hunt district lies the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge which has no motor vehicle access other than the Knox Ridge road and can provide some more remote hunting opportunities. River access by boat is another option early in the season, and opens up a lot of access points that are inaccessible by vehicle or foot. Late in the season ice may limit this access as well, it is all dependent on the weather. There is a lot of public access on both BLM and state land, but some of the better areas for hunting are along private land, a GPS with a land ownership is very helpful.
The Missouri River, stock ponds and a few streams are the main water source for many of the animals. The Vegetation is ponderosa pine, juniper and Douglas fir in the draws and on some of the slopes. The ridges along with south and west aspects mainly consist of sagebrush and grass which are fairly open.
Lewistown is the nearest city with accommodations, but is a 1.5 hour drive to the unit. There are multiple places for lodging in Lewistown along with a grocery stores and gas stations. If camping is more your style Fred Robinson Bridge where highway 191 crosses the Missouri River is a large developed campground, and would reduce your drive time to about 5 minutes. Camping is also allowed on public lands.
Roughly 900 square miles
38% public land
Elevations from 2,250-3,500 feet
Missouri River is the best access on the north end of the unit, boat access is best
Knox Ridge road runs through the middle of the unit and is graveled except for the portion on the CMR wildlife refuge, with precipitation CMR portion is not passable
Private land can cause access problems
ATVs could be useful to drive established roads