While some hunters are still chasing their Shoulder Hunt tags, others need to think about next season. It’s not too early to plan for next year’s tags and hunting destinations.
Montana requires special tags that can be drawn from annual lotteries. Some areas such as the Elkhorn Mountains near Helena, have Big Bulls, but the odds of getting a tag are Small. Moose and other big game critters can be even tougher.
Consider These thoughts.
Who will you be hunting with?
What is on your Bucket List? Select tags for critters that you have yet to tag. Try something different that requires new skills and destinations.
What will you do with the critter? Not all meat is tasty. Trophy critters are also older which means they may not be eaters. If you are hunting for food, your choices of tags may be different.
Where can you physically hunt? Some critters are best tagged by the younger and more fit hunters. Pick Mountain Goats when you are young.
What method of hunting do you want to choose?
What is your first, second, and third choice?
What can you afford? Some tags are expensive. The money needed to have the right gear, guide, outfitter, or camp are expensive.
Just because you can, should you? Some critters are about shooting than requiring hunting skills. Buffalo just stands broadside, are huge, and hard to miss. The hardest part of the hunt is finding one.
Adapt your hunting skills to challenge yourself. Consider self-imposed sporting limitations. Use a bow and arrow. Prime a black powder gun. Go single shot.
Do your homework Look at websites, local FWP offices, and explore information about areas you want to hunt.
If you hope to get a special tag, you need to play by the rules. Understanding your odds and opportunities are important. It may take several years to get additional Bonus Points. The worst that will happen is that you continue to hunt other areas and your usual game choices.
Play to Win!
Montana Grant
