New rules for Hunting Districts 426, 447, and 471 in north-central Montana affect mule deer and antlerless elk hunting. From fall 2026, general licenses will allow mule deer bucks only until November 15; a special permit is required afterward. Antlerless elk cannot be taken on National Forest lands without a specific Elk B-license.

Idaho Fish and Game removed 82 wild mule deer that entered a captive elk facility in GMU 60A after hunters reported seeing them inside during the 2025 season. Officials said lethal removal and CWD testing were the most responsible option because wild deer can’t legally remain in captivity and there’s no reliable live test for chronic wasting disease.

Don’t let their backyard snacking fool you—Cody, Wyoming’s mule deer are world-class migrators. Read more from Brett French here.

I have watched my dog with a stick in his mouth try to get in the dog door.  And he […]

This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast you host Downrigger Dale talks to the Regional Director of the Montana Mule […]