Montana Elk Hunting, Moose, Antelope, Deer

If you're looking to do some big game hunting then Montana's the place. The nation's fourth largest state, Montana is home to the largest migratory elk herd in the country. Hence, big game species are abundant in the state and the chances of locating and taking a prize animal are quite good. Given that elk are the most prominent big game species in the area, the likelihood of your hunt being centered around that particular animal is strong. But, as with all aspects of hunting - you have to be prepared for everything. Besides tracking elk, other big game species in the state include mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, Shiras, moose, black bear and mountain lion.

Besides having the ability to discover and explore the state's vast landscape during a big game hunting session, you also will inevitably learn a lot about many animals' habitat and behavior. The best way to do this, especially for nonresidents, is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable guide through an outfitter. The many benefits of hiring a local big game hunting guide include familiarity of the surrounding land, history and tracking of specific species and overall safety.

Having the correct knowledge of the land you'll be hunting on is key for success. From hiking the ridges, parks and meadows of Montana's numerous mountain ranges, national forests and wilderness areas, the excitement of embarking on a big game hunt in the state is like your first ride at Disneyland as a kid. Just like the stomach-wrenching ride, big game hunting not only gets the juices flowing as you engage in a once-in-a- lifetime affair, but the memories you take away from the hunt will be invaluable - especially if you take home a trophy.

From the breathtaking scenery of the morning sun rising over the frost covered mountains or the sight of the big bull you have been logging numerous hours in search of, the tracking of big game species is a highly underrated art. This is where a local guide can come in quite handy, because if you don't know where the animals are you might as well not even load you hunting rifle. With Montana being a prime elk habitat that sees trophy class bulls taken each year, the assistance of an outfitter can up your stock in the game. Also, safety first and foremost is the most important element of big game hunting and hunting in general. With a guide at your side, things are more likely to run smoothly and gracefully.

Some of Montana's biggest big game records, in pounds, include: black bear (505), elk (1,010), grizzly bear (1,102), bison (1,555) and mule deer (453).