The Great Northeast Montana Region 6 Herd Check

Northeast Montana’s big game herds have spent the past few years digging out from drought, disease and the punishing winter of 2022–23. The comeback isn’t complete, but three mild winters and better moisture have finally pushed much of Region 6 in the right direction, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Elk are the notable exception. Missouri River Breaks numbers dropped 22% since 2024 and sit 65% below the long-term average, prompting major cuts to cow and archery licenses. The small upside for successful applicants: “you may see fewer elk but also fewer elk hunters.” Over in the Bears Paw area, elk remain within management goals, and hunters have additional antlerless opportunities.

Mule deer are staging a respectable rebound. Spring densities rose 32% from 2025 and edged above the long-term average, while strong fawn numbers point toward continued growth. Buck ratios are improving but remain 15% below average. Restrictions continue in districts 621 and 622, and “mule deer B licenses are only valid on private land in Region 6.”

White-tailed deer have a tougher road ahead. Regional densities remain 56% below average after EHD outbreaks hit portions of the Milk and Missouri river corridors. Hunters may have better luck away from those river stretches and farther into prairie country. Beginning this year, whitetail B licenses must be obtained through the drawing, although surplus licenses could become available.

Then there are the pronghorn—the forecast’s overachievers. Their numbers increased for a third straight year, climbed 36% above the long-term average and reached “the highest seen since 2003.” Districts 630 and 670 posted especially strong gains and received larger license quotas.

The short version: pronghorn are booming, mule deer are bouncing back, whitetails are recovering unevenly and Breaks elk remain scarce. Check the district rules carefully, know where your license is valid and adjust expectations according to the habitat—not merely the species listed on the tag.