Access, weather only obstacles for elk hunters this year | greatfallstribune.com | Great Falls Tribune

By Tribune Staff and Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Montana’s got elk and hunters by the thousands are planning for what could be a great season.

The state’s general elk hunting season opens Oct. 26.

“Hunters are going to see very healthy populations of elk and liberal hunting opportunities. If the weather works in hunters’ favor, and they do some advance work to gain access where it’s needed, plenty of elk are potentially available for harvest,” said Quentin Kujala, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wildlife division management bureau chief.

Weather plays a huge role. For several years, Montana has seen mild winters and late snows. Kujala said that has contributed to lower elk harvests in some areas of the state, despite additional elk-hunting permits and more liberal seasons.

“This has been a pretty good weather year in Montana,” Kujala said. “We’re all hoping it leans in the hunters’ favor this fall.”

Hunters may obtain a free Hunting Access guide from the FWP region where they plan to hunt; another aide is the hunter tool kit on the FWP web site at www.fwp.mt.gov on the hunter access page.

Here is an overview of 2008 elk hunting opportunities in the state  For Full Story click link below.

Access, weather only obstacles for elk hunters this year | greatfallstribune.com | Great Falls Tribune.