Hunters targeting Hunt District 447 in Montana have raised multiple questions about the 900-20 tag, with many seeking clarity on unit access, land use, and draw odds, particularly concerning elk. The unit appears to be predominantly private land, pushing elk onto private properties and complicating public hunting opportunities. To improve success, hunters are advised to have a thorough understanding of boundaries, potential access through paid trespass fees, and the necessity of physical scouting, given limited trail access and inaccurately mapped paths. Those with permits need to draw a general tag first, and while you can only tag one elk, understanding the interaction between permits and general tags can optimize hunting strategy within Montana's diverse units.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 120"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 350"+ |
High
Low
Located southeast of Great Falls this unit covers the Highwood Mountains. Similar to the famous Big and Little Belt Mountains this is a mountain range rising out of the plains east of the continental divide.
This hunting district produces good bulls. This is tough ground to hunt without packing in either on horses or with backpacks. Private land will be a challenge as trophy bulls will commonly be visible on these private grounds. This area is not known as a deer area, but mule deer and whitetail can be hunted here.
This unit varies from a low of around 3,000 feet to a high of nearly 7,700 feet on Highwood Baldy. The majority of the unit is mountainous and timbered, though rolling grass hills and parks are mixed in at all elevations. The valley floors have farm ground which is mostly private.
Public access in this unit is decent. Numerous trails access much of the backcountry, but be advised the eastern side of the unit has numerous open ATV trails which can detract from a hunter looking for a roadless experience. The best hunting will require getting in a ways on one of the numerous hiking trails.
The higher elevations and northern slopes are timbered with pine and fir. Grasses dominate the parks and open hillsides. As the elevation drops lower down there are open grass hillsides, giving way to cottonwood and willow bottom lands.
Lodging is available in Belt. Camping is allowed on National Forest ground up to 14 days in a row. Numerous campsites are available on National Forest lands.
Roughly 885 square miles
21.1% public land
Elevations from 4,000-7,682 feet
A good portion of this unit is only accessible by trail with numerous options for length and difficulty in trips. Generally the further and harder you go the fewer hunters you will see
An ATV will access much of the eastern half.