Where to hunt Mule Deer in the Treasure State

Where to find Montana Mule Deer in 3 different Landscapes

By: Cody Fongemie MDF Contributer

Did you draw a Montana Mule Deer tag and are wondering where to hunt Mule Deer in the treasure state? You have several spectacular hunting opportunities in Montana to try.

Mule deer and mountains go together like PB&J, especially in Montana, where around 250,000 Mule Deer call the state home. While many of these deer are in the mountains, and a lot of hunters flock to the mountains to try and fill their tags, there is a ton of other land and habitats where you can hunt Mule Deer in the Treasure State.  

The Mountains 

The mountains of Montana, with their towering heights and dense forests, offer a thrilling challenge for hunters. Navigating steep slopes and thick vegetation, testing your stamina and skill, is an adventure in itself. The elusive mule deer in these areas, relying on their keen senses and natural camouflage, make the chase even more exciting. Patient stalking and strategic positioning are crucial as you navigate through this rugged landscape, where every step may bring you closer to a prized buck.

The Prairies

The prairies that sweep across the central and eastern part of the state with vast open spaces offer a starkly different hunting environment compared to the mountains. Here, you  can utilize long-range optics and spot-and-stalk techniques to locate mule deer grazing amidst rolling hills, grassy plains, and sage flats. The openness of the terrain demands keen observational skills and meticulous planning to approach within shooting range without spooking the wary deer. The challenge lies not only in the pursuit but also in adapting to the unpredictable weather and wind patterns that can swiftly change the dynamics of a hunt, making adaptability a key skill for success.

The Agricultural fields

The agricultural fields, often overlooked by most Mule Deer hunters, provide fertile feeding grounds for these majestic creatures. In the early season after a summer spent returning to the same agricultural fields every evening to feed, the hunter setting up on probable escape routes has a high chance of encountering a shooter buck. You may be able to utilize blinds or tree stands near feeding areas, patiently waiting for deer to emerge from cover. The key to success lies in understanding the deer’s behavior and movement patterns within these cultivated landscapes, where careful scouting and knowledge of local agricultural practices can make all the difference, making you feel knowledgeable and prepared.

Tons of opportunity. 

Whether in the challenging mountains, expansive prairies, or plentiful agricultural fields, hunting mule deer in Montana has unlimited opportunities.  Each terrain type presents its own challenges and rewards, ensuring that every hunt is unique and an environment supports your hunting style.

Shameless Plug: OnX hunt is a great tool for deciding which of these landscapes you will chase Mule Deer in this fall. https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app/features/desktop-web-map

The mountains are for you if you’re a hunter looking for a physical challenge. If you want to take a crack at some long-range shooting, look to the prairie, and whitetail hunters can put their experience to good use in the agricultural fields. Or you can try to tackle all three. No matter what, you’re in for the hunt of a lifetime chasing Mule Deer in Montana. 

Good luck this fall everyone and remember to send any success pictures or stories from the field to Web@muledeer.org and you could be featured on our website or in our magazine. If this article or any of our articles have helped you become a better hunter or conservation steward, consider becoming a member of the mule deer foundation for only $35 dollars a year. Click here to join: https://muledeer.org/product-category/membership/

Cody Fongemie @Fongeinthefield

Born and raised in New England, Cody developed a deep appreciation for American history and adventure from a young age. His love for the outdoors led him to become both an avid outdoorsman and a dedicated writer on related topics. After studying in South Carolina, he enlisted in the Air Force, where he is currently serving. Outside of his military duties, Cody enjoys hunting, fly fishing, and engaging in various adventurous activities, often sharing his experiences through his writing. He also works to connect the military community with the outdoors through non-profit initiatives.