Southeast Montana’s wildlife is recovering unevenly after a mild winter, early-summer rain and a hot, dry July, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Elk remain concentrated in HD 700 and HDs 702, 704 and 705. The southeastern herd has strong numbers and calf recruitment, while HD 700 remains below management goals. Private-land access, particularly in HD 702, continues to complicate hunting.
Mule deer numbers rose 15 percent from 2025, with 55 fawns per 100 adults, but remain about 17 percent below the long-term average. White-tailed deer numbers vary, though no significant outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease has been detected this year.
Pronghorn are the standout. Counts reached their highest level since 2006—27 percent above last year and 69 percent above the 10-year average. Numbers are strongest south of the Yellowstone River, prompting FWP to increase licenses.
Opening weekend could be busy, but wildlife biologist Steve Atwood noted, “Hunters may find less competition and fewer hunters in the field after the opening weekend.”
Overall, pronghorn are booming, mule deer are recovering and elk opportunities depend heavily on location and access. Hunters should review district boundaries, licenses and regulations before heading out.
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