Hunters looking to venture into Hunt District 704, Montana, should be well informed about the complex but rewarding opportunities offered here. As a nonresident seeking success in this unit, consider the high demand and limited availability of both elk and deer permits, with general season tags allowing only for spike or cow elk, unless an archery permit is secured. While draw odds for elk permits are generally low, they improve significantly with more points, and there's an option to request a refund for your general tag if unsuccessful in the limited draw. A key tip for deer hunting is to utilize GPS land ownership maps to avoid trespassing, as private lands are tightly managed, while being mindful of past harsh winters and disease that have impacted deer populations. Finally, planning in advance can enhance your chances, as trends indicate high competition for these in-demand tags, and a strategic approach could make all the difference for an optimal hunting experience.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-160" | 170"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 130"+ |
| Elk | 280"-310" | 340"+ |
High
Low
This hunt district is located between the Tongue and Powder rivers. This is a beautiful place to hunt with rolling prairies, large sagebrush flats, forested timber buttes and steep river breaks.
Elk seem to be in isolated pockets, but there are some great bulls in this hunting district. Mule deer numbers are on a low cycle, but can be found throughout the district. Whitetail deer are also on a low cycle and can be found throughout the area. Private land has some of the better populations.
This area has many isolated parcels of BLM land on the north and central portions of the unit, with a large part of the Custer National Forest on the southern end of the unit. The Custer National Forest contains timbered ridges with some large grass and sagebrush valleys. This unit is very diverse and contains everything from high timbered ridges, cottonwood river bottoms, sagebrush flats, rolling grass prairie and chalky cliff breaks.
There are a lot of isolated pieces of BLM, National Forest and state lands. In order to access these lands a GPS with landownership is a must. Many landowners are part of the Block Management Program which will allow public access with permission. Check with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for which landowners are part of this program.
Some of the ridges and plateaus at higher elevations are heavily timbered with ponderosa pine, Douglas fir and juniper trees. The north slopes and some of the draws are also heavily timbered. There are large expanses of sagebrush and rolling prairie with little to no trees present. The major river and creek bottoms have large cottonwood trees and numerous grass species.
If planning on hunting the north or central portions of the unit, Miles City would provide the best accommodations. This is a great city with many options for lodging, restaurants, gas, groceries and a sporting goods store. If hunting the southern end of the unit, Broadus would be a good option, this small town is busy during hunting season but does provide lodging, gas, groceries and a few restaurants. Lodging does book up early during hunting season, so call ahead.
Roughly 5,414 square miles
30.5% public land
Elevations from 2,250-4,400 feet
ATVs are recommended but not a necessity