A big bull elk is at the top of nearly every hunter’s bucket list. But the chance to acquire this regal trophy often comes with a hefty price tag, comparable to a new vehicle, or requires decades of bonus points to draw. The solution? Montana. The Big Sky State has impressive bulls and tags that can be drawn within four to six years, or often with some luck, even sooner. Not only do these expansive private ranches offer world-class elk hunting, but the opportunities for mule deer and whitetail deer are equally noteworthy.
- Deadline to Apply: April 1 for Elk, Deer, Big Game Combo. May 1 for Moose, Sheep, Goat. June 1 for Antelope.
- Draw Post Date: Approximately April 15 for Elk, Deer, Big Game Combo.
- WTA TAGS Species: Elk, Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Pronghorn Antelope, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, Moose.
- Youth: Must be 11 years old by January 16 of the following year to hunt.
- Hunter’s Safety: Required if born after January 1, 1985.
- Point System: General combos are allocated through preference points, while permit areas use bonus points.
Whether you’ve been building points in Montana for years or you’re new to the application process, a WTA TAGS consultant can guide you through every step to ensure that your applications align with your hunting goals. Here are a few of our top picks to book or to start building points to draw:
Rifle Bull Elk
Experience mild topography, exceptional trophy quality, and the chance to combo your hunt with antelope and/or mule deer. This is one of the premier multi-species hunts available.
Archery Bull Elk
WTA’s portfolio of archery elk hunts in Montana features the state’s premier trophy ranches, where bulls scoring 340–370 are common. If you’re looking for value-minded offerings, we have exactly what you need.
Rifle Mule Deer
This location boasts impressive deer populations and solid trophy quality, making it one of the best values in mule deer hunting today. Tags can be drawn at a 100% level for 2026, and spots are still available.
Archery Whitetail Deer
With over 25 miles of river bottom surrounded by agricultural fields and meadows, this area offers astounding deer densities. Tags are easily drawn, and high success rates are the norm. Hunts occur in September and October, with the option to add antelope if drawn.
Don’t wait too long—demand for Montana’s coveted elk and deer tags is on the rise, leading to longer wait times and increased hunt prices. The April 1 application deadline for Montana elk and deer tags is coming up quickly. Remember, if you don’t apply, you can’t draw.
Make your hunting dreams a reality in Montana! Give WTA TAGS a call today to get started 1-800-755-8247.
