Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex Hunt

[huntnfool]

I'm planning to hunt Elk and Mule Deer here in a few years and would like input about hunting the Bob and any reputable outfitters that you would recommend. It can also be in the Scapegoat and Great Bear too.

Many thanks,

Paul

 

[Guy Miner]

Can't say as I do. Know a rancher, his place backs up to The Bob. He used to take a few folks in for elk, but not anymore.

Great country.

 

[IdahoCTD]

I would ask on long range hunting. It seems to me the last time it was brought up the general concensus was there was almost no elk left.

 

[DeerTracker]

There are elk left in the Bob but the wolves are quickly changing that. I've hunted in the Bob quite a bit but always packed back in about 20 miles with my Dad and Grandpa. You might look into JJJ guest ranch out of Augusta, MT. The Barkers are good people. I'm not sure how many hunts they make each year though. There are 2 or 3 other outfitters based out of Augusta that might be worth looking into.

 

[huntnfool]

I appreciate the info. I have contacted the Barkers' and waiting on their response. They're probably in the back country. Since my post, I have looked at a map and it shows elk numbers are better on the east slope of the divide. The unit they hunt in is on that side, 442.

Once again, thank you for the input.

Paul

 

[BeeTee]

Learn how to be safe in Griz country. There are quite a few bears in the Bob. MT's always had a rifle season in the Bob during the elk rut. BT

 

[huntnfool]

Will do BeeTee. Thanks for the heads-up.

Paul

 

[tecumseh]

Learn how to be safe in Griz country. There are quite a few bears in the Bob. MT's always had a rifle season in the Bob during the elk rut. BT

Ditto! I've hunted the Bob three times and it's amazing country! We DIY hunt, it's about a 10-12 mile hike to the area we hunt. You might want to check the Montana Outfitters Association for guides who operate in the Bob.

 

[huntnfool]

Yep. Have already emailed with several of them, waiting on responses. Will check out the association too.

Paul

 

[BeeTee]

My son hunts quite a lot near the southern boundary of the Bob on National Forest land. There, Grizzly bears know about hunting season. Usually one or two elk/deer kills per season are taken over (taken away) by a bear(s). Reminds me of wildlife videos showing bears sitting on the bank watching salmon fishers on a popular stream in AK. Once a fish is hooked, the bear follows the monofilament.... (follows the sound of the shot..)

I hunted with with my son a couple days last season in that area. Was the first time for me to hunt in an area that the Griz frequent... Later in the season, a sow and two cubs were seen a stone's throw from their camp. I'm not comfortable being in Griz country....

 

[super-7]

My son hunts quite a lot near the southern boundary of the Bob on National Forest land. There, Grizzly bears know about hunting season. Usually one or two elk/deer kills per season are taken over (taken away) by a bear(s). Reminds me of wildlife videos showing bears sitting on the bank watching salmon fishers on a popular stream in AK. Once a fish is hooked, the bear follows the monofilament.... (follows the sound of the shot..)

I hunted with with my son a couple days last season in that area. Was the first time for me to hunt in an area that the Griz frequent... Later in the season, a sow and two cubs were seen a stone's throw from their camp. I'm not comfortable being in Griz country....

I was always raised on the farm to never turn your back on a bull, no matter how halter broke or tame he seemed you just didn't do it. Our nieghbor was damned near killed by doing that and walked like a hunch back the rest of his life. I equate close quarters with a Grizz the same way you do not need to be shaking in your boots afraid, but you better be darned aware. They can be unpredictable , just don't take short cuts in Grizz country. Camp food cached away from sleeping quarters , scraps and grease and even coffee grounds need to disposed if away from camp. If I see a Grizz I'll always watch and see what there doing where they are headed and go out of my way not to cross paths with them. Not fear but a very healthy respect.

 

[DrMike]

I live with grizzlies. I do respect them. It is a good thing to know where they are if possible. When it isn't possible, be prepared. They are awesome animals; I do enjoy watching them--from a distance.

 

[Vince]

I live with grizzlies. I do respect them. It is a good thing to know where they are if possible. When it isn't possible, be prepared. They are awesome animals; I do enjoy watching them--from a distance.

Being that you sir live in Griz country and that you enjoy watching them from a distance is a very telling clue to this desert rat.

 

[huntnfool]

I appreciate everyone's advice and input. I will be careful and aware for sure.

 

[Guy Miner]

Should be a terrific hunt! Hoping to see your report in due time.

 

[DeerTracker]

I've seen more grizzlies put on the Rocky Mountain Front than I have back in the Bob or anywhere else. Last summer alone, I saw 14 different grizzlies within a month and a half less than 10 miles from Choteau. The grizzlies do stay out of hibernation later in the Bob. They know there are gut piles and wounded animals and don't hibernate until late November or December