This smaller unit is found in the west central portion of the state and lies along the southern edge of the famed Missouri River. Great deer habitat for both mule deer and whitetail and willing huntiners will find opportunties for both.

Traditionally one of North Dakota’s highest success rates. Recent biologist surveys have shown an increase in deer numbers.

Unit 3B3’s terrain is a whitetail haven. The deep ravines and overflows branching off the Missouri river provide prime whitetail habitat. These deep draws and ridges also accommodate the needs of mule deer. Moving away from the river transitions to rolling hills, although there are still some major changes in elevation within a short distance. There’s a mixture of livestock pasture and heavily timbered draws throughout. The northeast portion of Unit 3B3 features a good amount of cropland. There’s definitely some rough, steep terrain in this unit that can make a hunt worthwhile if you’re willing to put in the miles on foot. Creek bottoms and drainages coming off the Missouri River make some areas impossible to access in a pickup. Overall, right along the Missouri River are extremely rough draws and a few coulees. As you get farther away from the river, the landscape flattens into prime farmland.

Access to much of this unit is limited. River Road and Road 1804 run along each side of the river, providing access to the majority of the unit. The draws that branch off the Missouri River are just too deep and rugged to accommodate much of a road. That said, most of the State Trust Lands have adequate roads nearby. If you have an ATV or UTV in an area where motorized vehicles are allowed, or if you’re willing to put in a hike, this unit offers one of North Dakota’s highest success rates. Be aware of where you’re wanting to hunt – there are only three bridges across the Missouri River in this unit – Riverdale, Washburn and Bismarck. Besides the northeast portion of this unit, the remainder includes North Dakota’s secondary mule deer range. The mighty Missouri River flows out of Lake Sakakawea to the east (or south) through this unit. There is only a handful of adequate public access in Unit 3B3 to facilitate a rifle hunt. A couple WMAs in the northwest portion offer some excellent opportunities, as does the State Trust Lands in this area.

Thick stands of cottonwood, ash, and willow trees cover most of the creek bottoms near the Missouri River. You’ll also find an occasional patch of evergreens, but cottonwoods are the most common trees you’ll encounter in Unit 3B3. You’ll find some oats being farmed in the unit, as well as wheatgrass hay fields. Grama grass prairies and buckbrush filled canyons are also somewhat common.

You’ll easily find a campground or RV park along the river and surrounding areas. Motel accommodations are easy to come by as well between Bismarck and Washburn. Bismarck also has a variety of sporting goods stores if you’re in need of last-minute supplies.