Montana Elk Hunt Pack List
What to pack once you draw a Montana elk tag. Elk hunting here is steep, high and often far from the truck. Pack for cold mornings, warm afternoons and a long carry out.
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An email before every Texas and Western draw application closes.
Bonus: the free 2027 Western draw deadline calendar (PDF) when you sign up. Free. A few emails a year, timed to deadlines and results. Unsubscribe anytime.
Glass first
- Top pick for most huntersVortex Diamondback HD 10x42 binoculars
Field-tested by our team. Our top binocular pick for most hunters.
Check price at OpticsPlanetAffiliate link
More optics: Elk hunting binoculars.
Montana elk essentials
The pieces that earn their spot in the pack.
- Frame hunting pack
Carries camp in and a quarter out. Elk quarters run 50 to 90 pounds each.
Check priceAffiliate link - Game bags
Breathable bags for four quarters, backstraps and neck meat.
Check priceAffiliate link - Replaceable-blade knife
A fresh edge for every quarter.
Check priceAffiliate link - Merino base layers
September mornings start near freezing and afternoons run warm.
Check priceAffiliate link - Rain jacket and pants
Mountain storms build fast above timberline.
Check priceAffiliate link - Headlamp with spare batteries
You will walk in and out in the dark.
Check priceAffiliate link - Water filter
Refill from creeks instead of hauling gallons.
Check priceAffiliate link - Elk calls
Cow calls and a bugle for September archery and rut rifle seasons.
Check priceAffiliate link
Before you go
- Print your license and carry it with your tags.
- Download offline maps for your unit.
- Read the current Montana regulations for your hunt code, including legal weapons and carcass transport rules, from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP): agency page.
Not drawn yet? Montana elk draw odds, Montana apply checklist and the points tool.
Never miss a draw
Apply on time
One short email before each application window closes, and another when results post. Free.
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Get draw deadline reminders
Texas drawn hunt deadlines (Jul to Nov) and Western draw windows (Jan to Jun), plus results when they post. Sign up and get the free 2027 draw deadline calendar (PDF). Unsubscribe anytime.