Low moose densities dispersed throughout the unit, might take many days to find a good bull
Late in the season roads can become very snow packed -tire chains are recommended
Allow plenty of time to hunt the unit
On The Ground
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This hunting district is found in west-central Montana and is home to a good population of moose. Historically, this unit has produced some great bulls although trophy potential has dipped slightly in recent years. This area is heavily timbered in areas but many openings can be found on south-facing slopes and along creek bottoms.
Moose densities and populations have dipped here in recent years but some great bulls can still be found. This area is largely public and hunters will generally find little trouble in finding areas to hunt.
Kent Peak rises some 9,000 feet above the surrounding peaks within the Sapphire Mountains. The Anaconda Range has peaks as high as 9,000 including West and East Pintler. Wilderness area is made up of valleys carved into u-shapes by ancient glaciers, alpine lakes sitting in deep cirques and many rugged peaks over 8,000 feet. These alpine lakes help feed the headwaters of South Fork Rock, Cooper, Middle Fork Rock and Ross Fork Creeks. Georgetown Lake sits just outside the northeast corner of the unit.
Lower elevations have broad areas of sagebrush, mountain mahogany, and bitterbrush with cottonwoods and willows along creek bottoms. Mountain slopes have dense forests of ponderosa and lodgepole pine, Douglas fir and spruce with groves of aspen in most basins. Above the tree line are meadows covered with grazes and wildflowers, talus slopes with lichen coverings and some willows along lakes and streams. Below Fox Peak are hundreds of acres of new growth due to a substantial forest fire some years back.
Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness has a trail along the Continental Divide for over 45 miles. This maintained trail connects to numerous side trails that drop down into isolated drainages. A good system of county and Forest Service roads lead to wilderness trailheads as well as hundreds of square miles of National Forest. Heavy snow can shut down Forest Service roads and trails, so be prepared with four-wheel drive, chains and maybe a winch. Snow machines trailing a sled might be an option in November to get in and get out.
National Forest wilderness area has a maximum campsite occupancy of 16 consecutive days in one place. Please contact the Regional National Forest offices for developed and dispersed camping details. Communities of Phippsburg, Hamilton and Anaconda have limited choices of motels, restaurants, medical care and 24/7 gas and diesel. Missoula, some 50 miles to the northwest, has a regional center, many motels, lodges, bed & breakfasts and hotels are in the city as well. Choices of cafes and restaurants are unlimited, as are 24/7 gas and diesel stations.
Roughly 283 square miles
88.5% public land
Elevations from 5,100–7,600 feet
Montana Route 38 travels along the northern boundary