hunt details

Our Montana cow elk hunts are shoulder season hunts, offered after the general elk season. They’re a great option for hunters who want an elk opportunity without going through the full draw process.

These hunts take place north of Billings on a different property than our main hunting camp.

Additional Details:

Species: Cow Elk
Season: Shoulder Season
Location: North of Billings, Montana
District: 005-00
Tag Type: Over-the-counter, region-specific cow tag
Hunt Length: 2 days
Lodging + meals included

One important note — if you have an unused general elk tag, it can still be valid during this season.

Hunt Style

Shoulder Season Cow Elk Hunt

These hunts are simple, well-run, and focused on opportunity.

Most days involve moving through elk country, watching for groups, and working into position for a clean shot. Cow elk hunts are a great way to fill the freezer and extend your season.

A typical hunt looks like:

Morning hunting sessions
Active glassing and movement
Shots that are usually reasonable and controlled
Midday breaks and adjustments based on elk activity
Evening hunts when elk start moving again

This isn’t a trophy bull hunt. It’s a solid elk hunt with a lot of value and a realistic tag process.

SHOULDER SEASON

A Great Elk Option Without the Draw

One of the biggest advantages of these hunts is the licensing. Non-residents can purchase an over-the-counter cow elk tag for this district, which makes this hunt much easier to plan compared to limited bull permits.

District info:

Cow Elk Shoulder Season — District 005-00
Over-the-counter, region-specific cow tag available

If you want to make sure you’re applying for the right thing, just call Ryan. He’ll walk you through it.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Every cow elk hunt includes:

Guided private land hunting
Lodging during your stay
Meals included
Field care and harvest support
Help with tag questions and timing

These hunts are limited, and we keep the experience personal and straightforward.

Cow Elk Hunt Pricing

2-Day Cow Elk Shoulder Season Hunt: $2,750

Includes lodging and meals.

Optional Add-Ons:

Second cow: +$500
Extra day of hunting: +$750

DEPOSIT & PAYMENTS

A 50% deposit is required to hold your dates.

Accepted payment methods:

Venmo
Cash
Check

LICENSE & DRAW INFORMATION

Montana Application Deadlines:

April 1 — Deer & Elk
June 1 — Cow Elk & Antelope

Cow elk shoulder season tags are often simpler than general draw hunts, but we’re happy to help you confirm what you need.

What to Bring

Hunters should arrive prepared for changing Montana conditions. We recommend:

Valid Montana hunting license and tag
Rifle (and appropriate ammunition)
Quality optics (binoculars, rangefinder)
Weather-appropriate layered clothing
Comfortable, broken-in boots
Daypack with water, snacks, and personal items
Personal medications and toiletries

What to Expect

Your guided whitetail deer hunt with RSO Outfitters delivers a true Montana hunting experience from start to finish. Cow elk hunts last 2 days, with daily plans built around weather, animal movement, and hunter ability. Expect early mornings, glassing from vantage points, spot-and-stalk opportunities, and time spent covering productive country.

All guided Montana hunts include lodging, meals, and professional guides who handle logistics so you can focus on the hunt. Extra hunting days may be added based on daily rates. The closest airport is Billings Logan International Airport (Billings, MT).

Hunt prices do not include hunting licenses, meat processing, motel lodging before or after the hunt, gratuities, or taxidermy.

Guided hunts in Montana

Montana Cow Elk Hunts