Hunt elk during Montana’s early fall archery season out of the wide-open country near Butte with Pioneer Outfitters Montana. September brings crisp mornings, active bulls, and the immersive pace of a true backcountry hunt—calling, stalking, and reading rugged terrain while staying focused on ethical shot opportunities.

This is a physical, skill-forward experience designed for hunters who want a well-planned trip, responsible guiding, and a camp that makes long days in the mountains more comfortable. We operate with stewardship in mind—Leave No Trace practices, low-impact stock management, and a safety-first approach—so you can concentrate on the hunt and the place you’re in.

• Prime archery timing: season opens the first Saturday in September and typically runs into the third week of October (general rifle season follows)
• Tag reminder for non-residents: apply for elk/deer licenses March 1–April 1 each year
• Comfortable wall-tent camp: 10x12 tents with wood stoves, cots, sleeping pads, camp pillows, lights, and drying racks (shared with one other hunter)
• Cook/lounge tent: 12x14 tent with wood stove, tables, chairs, and a dedicated camp manager to handle meals and camp chores
• Modern backcountry amenities: solar charging, filtered drinking water, private pit toilet, simple mountain shower, and firewood stocked
• Small camp feel: up to 4 hunters per camp; non-hunters welcome to join

From bugling encounters to glassing high country edges, you’ll be hunting where elk live and travel—steep, remote, and rewarding. Come prepared to work hard, and return each night to a warm camp, good food, and the quiet perspective that makes Southwest Montana unforgettable.

Here’s everything nonresident hunters need to know about licenses, regulations, and how to boost your odds of success with Montana’s preference point system.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (MT FWP) opens the license application process on March 1 at 5:00 AM MST, and the deadline is April 1—don’t miss it!

Nonresident hunters can apply for elk hunting licenses through a random draw. MT FWP offers three main licenses for nonresident hunters:

• General Elk License - $1,018 | 17,000 quota
• General Deer License - $704 | 4,600 quota
• General Combination License (Deer & Elk) - $1,208 | 17,000 quota

All combination licenses include a season fishing license and an upland bird license. Note that you’ll need to purchase a conservation license, base hunting license, and Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP) separately to complete your application.

One way to increase your chances of securing a license is by using Montana’s preference point system, which prioritizes applicants with higher points during the draw. Here’s how it works:

• 75% of combination licenses are allocated to those with preference points, while 25% are reserved for applicants without points.
• Hunters can accumulate up to 3 preference points, with each point costing $100.
• As an outfitter client, you can purchase an additional Outfitter Preference Point for $100 at the time of application, giving you up to 84% success in securing a license. (Note that this license is only valid for hunting with an outfitter.)

2023 Draw Statistics

• 3–2.2 Points: 100% draw success
• 2 Points: 83.9% draw success
• 0.8–1.2 Points: 0% draw success
• 0 Points: 60.2% draw success
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To maintain your preference points, you must apply for a nonresident combination license in consecutive years—skipping a year results in losing your points.

To purchase a hunting license in Montana, nonresident hunters must meet the following education requirements:

General Hunter Education

• If you were born after January 1, 1985, you need to complete a Montana hunter education course or an approved course from another state or province. Learn more about Montana hunter education here.
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Bowhunter Education Requirements

To purchase a Bow and Arrow License in Montana, archery hunters must have one of the following:

• A certificate of completion for the National Bowhunter Education Foundation course, or
• A prior year’s bowhunting/archery license from any state or province.

The Bow and Arrow License costs $10.

If you’re planning your Montana hunting experience with friends or family and need to ensure everyone gets a license, consider applying as a nonresident hunting party. Here’s how it works:

• Up to 5 applicants can apply as a party.
• The group’s preference points are averaged to determine the party’s draw chances.

Don’t leave your Montana elk hunting trip to chance. Work with an outfitter, secure your Outfitter Preference Point, and significantly boost your chances of success. If you have any questions or want to explore your options further, contact us today!

• Call/Text: 406-865-0779
• Email: info@pioneeroutfittersmt.com

Get ready to experience the thrill of archery elk hunting in Montana’s breathtaking wilderness. Apply by April 1, and take your first step toward an unforgettable adventure!