Drawn in Montana

[dwhite0622]

Still kind of in shock, but I was lucky enough to draw the 300-50 moose tag this year.

I’m not looking for spots or anyone’s hard-earned locations, but I would love any general advice from people who have hunted moose before.

A few questions I have:

• What type of country should I focus on during summer scouting?

• What kind of habitat or feed should I be keying in on during scouting vs during hunting?

• Any tips on where to hang trail cameras?

• How much will they move come September?

I’m planning to spend a lot of time scouting and learning the unit this summer and would appreciate any general knowledge or lessons learned.

 

[NRA4LIFE]

I can speak from experience on question #1. DO NOT get disappointed if you don't see much in the summer or when it's warm. They don't move much during the day and the amount of foliage can hide them very well.

 

[dwhite0622]

I can speak from experience on question #1. DO NOT get disappointed if you don't see much in the summer or when it's warm. They don't move much during the day and the amount of foliage can hide them very well.

That’s a great gut check. I can see how frustrating that could be. Thanks for the insight!

 

[Joshk358]

Congrats on the tag!!

 

[Jon Boy]

You’re not looking for bulls in your summer scouting, you’re looking for cows. It is unreal how far bulls will travel come the rut. It’s a fairly nerve racking hunt due to such a low density animal and a lot of times in thick brush. But, when you start looking for moose in moosey looking spots you tend to start seeing more moose. I know that may sound silly but you’ll see what I’m saying.

Biologist, GW, and FS personnel will be good resources to find where the moose generally hang out. It’s a different hunt for a different species so enjoy the ride!

 

[Geewhiz]

Lots of moose in that unit. Find a pilot who will take you flying. Moose are absurdly easy to see from the air.

 

[dwhite0622]

You’re not looking for bulls in your summer scouting, you’re looking for cows. It is unreal how far bulls will travel come the rut. It’s a fairly nerve racking hunt due to such a low density animal and a lot of times in thick brush. But, when you start looking for moose in moosey looking spots you tend to start seeing more moose. I know that may sound silly but you’ll see what I’m saying.

Biologist, GW, and FS personnel will be good resources to find where the moose generally hang out. It’s a different hunt for a different species so enjoy the ride!

Thanks for the advice! That’s helpful. I have been a little nervous about actually finding moose. That’s a great bull! Very nicely done.

 

[S.Clancy]

I've seen a ton of bulls in that unit over the years. It all depends on what kind of hunt you wanna have and how far you want to pack one out.

 

[dwhite0622]

I've seen a ton of bulls in that unit over the years. It all depends on what kind of hunt you wanna have and how far you want to pack one out.

Yeah fair point. I’m absolutely willing to hike in and find them, but also don’t want to get into a position I can’t get one out of. My background is backpack hunting and I am used to hiking.

 

[mtblackdog]

I drew a 380 moose tag. I live 10 minutes to the unit. Ill be doing the same.

 

[Briant_az]

@mtblackdog
Where do you live? Just curious as I live in Townsend.

@dwhite0622 congrats on your tag! Good luck!