Draw odds for Hunt District 426 in Montana have been shifting, with recent reports indicating a requirement of at least one preference point to draw a tag, and a noted trend towards needing 2-3 points in the near future. Hunters have observed the importance of purchasing preference points to improve their odds, emphasizing the increasing competitiveness. The unit is described as challenging for deer hunting due to its rugged terrain, particularly the steep, vertical canyons on public land, with the north side of the river recommended as a more promising area. It's important to understand the distinctions between Montana's tag options, including the Big Game Combo for both deer and elk, which further influences draw odds.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | N/A | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 130"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 300"+ |
High
Low
This district is located in the heart of Montana just south of the Missouri River and west of the famed “Missouri River Breaks.” This district isn’t considered to be part of the “Breaks” but it is largely the same habitat with more agriculture than its neighboring districts to the east. The district is comprised of large agricultural fields and cattle pastures broken up by long rough drainages leading down to large river bottoms. This area has a growing population of elk and is well known for producing trophy mule deer.
This district is one of the best areas in Montana to take a trophy mule deer on a general tag. Hunting pressure can be high on public land but, the country is rough and desolate enough for the motivated hunter to escape the crowds. Bull elk hunting is available on limited entry permits and those permits have been increasing along with the resident elk population. Private land can be an issue, but some landowners do allow access and there is plenty of public land to hunt.
The north, west and central portions of this district are classic breaks country. Large river bottoms that rise up through rough badlands and buttes eventually plain out into farm country. The rough drainages leading to the rivers are steep, long and difficult to traverse. Between the main river drainages there is moderate farm country broken up by creeks and rolling hills.
This district is dominated by private land, but access is still pretty good overall. Some private landowners do allow hunting simply by asking permission. There is not a ton of public land in this district but the public lands available are excellent areas to hunt. Using a GPS can really help you get around in this district. Block Management Areas are available for public access as well as one WMA.
The breaks terrain of this district consists of riparian habitat, sage dotted hillsides and ponderosa pine timbered ridges that run down to sparse cottonwood river beds. Farm fields are dominated by wheat and alfalfa that make up large portions of the district. Cattle pastures with native prairie grasses and shrubs are found throughout the area.
Lewistown is the main hub for this district. Here you can find lodging as well as any supplies you may need for your hunt from food and fuel to sporting goods. There are also a few small towns throughout the district that day hunters can use to resupply. Camping along the Missouri River on the northern boundary of the district is popular and also an effective location to day hunt from. Backpack camps in the more remote areas are seldom used but can be very effective to get away from the crowds.
Roughly 800 square miles
17% public land
Elevation from 2,600-4,200 feet
GPS is very helpful
Salt Creek and Wolf Creek roads provide good access to BLM lands