Super Successful Dry Creek Ranch - This is one of the finest private leases in Montana, consisting of 25,000 acres of privately managed quality big game habitat.  The ranch is surrounded by other large private ranches, which has created some real trophy quality elk herds.

Our largest bull taken scored a whopping 409 7/8 gross score and ranks number 13 ever taken in Montana.  Every year some real trophies are seen, some are shot, and some live to see another year.  Not everyone will kill or even see a 350 or better bull, but they are there. There are 40 square miles of canyons and timber with lots of hiding places. Big bulls hide until they are found or until they make a mistake. 

In order to get a big bull, you need to be in an area that has big bulls. Four of the past eight years have brought 100% opportunity at 5 point or better bulls.  Other year's success has been from 75 to 90% on 5-point bulls and better, except for one year. 

Weather, hunter's abilities, and luck all play a part in hunting.  In 2005, 75% of our bulls taken were over 300 gross score.  Our experienced guides and knowledge of the area is where our high success rate comes from.

We have a good population of mule deer ranging from 20" to 28".  Whitetail deer call certain areas of the ranch home as well and some nice whitetail are taken. 

Two camps will be utilized here with 2 to 4 hunters per camp. First camp consists of our newly constructed three story  log lodge built in 2004.  Very comfortable and lots of room there is a shower area and generator electricity is available, but we use outdoor plumbing. Camps are in a mountainous area with no running water.  Generators are used for electricity and modest shower facilities are available in both camps. In second camp we are building a new facility this year.

Client's vehicles will be left at a designated parking area on the ranch or at Cargill's lodge.  Mode of hunting travel will be primarily  4X4 and stalking on foot with some possible horse use. 

We can accommodate about any kind of hunter from the relaxed laid back person to the young and vigorous. 

Elk harvested must be 5X5 or better and deer must be 4x4 or better, continuing to assure the quality of game for the future.  An occasional fall black bear is encountered and a separate license is required for that ($350.00 must be purchased by August 31st.).   These hunts are for 7 days, including 5 full days of hunting time. Cost for two hunters per guide is $6,500.00 each, and for private guide, cost is $7,800.00.  

Trophy Fees: There is a $500.00 trophy fee for any bear or deer taken.  Bulls from 300-340 gross score, trophy fee is $1,000.00 For bulls over 340, the fee is $2,000.00.  License cost is $1,500.00 for deer and elk or elk only for $1,400.00 and must be accompanied by outfitters certificate and to MT FWP no later than March 15th.   Fall bear tags must be purchased by August 31st.

Elk Hunt Dates for 2008

These are tentative dates pending Fish Wildlife and Parks approval. We take a total of six hunters per week.