Montana Mountain Lion Hunting Trips

Montana mountain lion hunting trip isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those ready to face the elements and test their endurance, the rewards are unforgettable. The state’s diverse terrain includes rocky mountains, dense forests, and snow-covered valleys — all of which provide the perfect environment for a great adventure. Unlike other hunts, mountain lion hunting in Montana is an adrenaline-fueled chase that requires patience, skill, and determination.

How Mountain Lion Hunting in Montana Works

Special permits are required to hunt mountain lions in Montana, and the application process can be complex, but we can help. Hunters are encouraged to plan ahead and review the licensing requirements through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks at https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt. Assistance with permit applications may also be available through local hunting outfitters and guides.

1. Hunting Season: December 1st – April 14th. Hunting during this time of year offers optimal conditions for tracking mountain lions, as snow-covered terrain makes fresh tracks more visible. The cold weather also enhances the experience, with crisp mountain air adding to the adventure of the hunt.
2. Tracking the Lion: The hunt begins by searching for fresh tracks in the snow or soft ground. Guides and hunters work together to locate signs of a lion’s presence, often following tracks for miles before releasing the hounds.
3. The Chase: Once the hounds are released, they pursue the lion through rugged terrain. The excitement builds as hunters follow the hounds’ cries, which signal the lion’s location. This stage of the hunt requires physical stamina as hunters may need to hike steep inclines and cover significant distances.
4. The Encounter: When the hounds bay up or tree the lion, hunters have a chance to approach carefully for a clean, ethical shot. It’s a moment of intense focus as the hunter’s patience and precision are put to the test.
5. Trophy Handling: After a successful harvest, guides assist with trophy photos, field dressing, skinning, and preparing the animal for transport. Proper care ensures the quality of the trophy and the memories of the hunt.

Montana Mountain Lion Hunting in the Kootenai National Forest

Northwest Montana, and specifically the Kootenai National Forest, offers some of the best mountain lion hunting in the Rocky Mountains.

Hunters in this region have access to nearly 500 square miles of prime mountain lion habitat. The hunting grounds span much of Montana’s northeast corner, providing tons of country to cat hunt. Hunts are typically conducted using 4-wheel-drive trucks to navigate the backcountry, and after a rewarding day in the field, hunters return to a comfortable lodge each evening.

While no hunt can ever be guaranteed, the success rate for mountain lion hunts in this area has been exceptionally high. Experienced houndsmen and guides lead the way, using trained hounds to track and tree cougars in the wild. The thrill of following fresh tracks through the snow, hearing the baying of the hounds, and feeling the adrenaline surge as you approach a treed mountain lion is an experience like no other.

Book Your Montana Mountain Lion Hunt

From the heart-pounding excitement of tracking a fresh trail to the adrenaline rush of approaching a treed lion, Montana mountain lion hunting is a bucket-list adventure for serious big game hunters.

Montana Mountain lion Hunting Outfitters
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