MT Buffalo Hunts

Montana is a top Buffalo (bison) hunting destination and Bearpaw Outfitter's private buffalo ranches offer some of the best bison hunting in Montana. Buffalo is the name commonly used for these iconic beasts, but the proper name for them is actually Bison.

These buffalo graze in a natural setting, roaming the same country their ancestors roamed for centuries. The meat is very tasty on younger buffalo so younger animals are what most meat hunters choose. Buffalo is low in fat and cholesterol and considered one of the healthiest red meats you can eat. Diabetics desiring lower cholesterol intake and low fat dieters believe that eating buffalo meat improves their health.

Antelope hunting, Mule Deer hunting, Whitetail hunting, or Prairie dog shooting can easily be added to your buffalo hunt. Bow hunters, muzzleloader, sharps, large pistol, or modern rifle hunters are welcome on our buffalo hunts. Give Bearpaw Outfitters a call, we'll explain the details and help arrange the best hunt possible.

Guaranteed Hunts

We guarantee an animal that meets your approval. If you do not like the animal suggested by the guide, you need to tell him before you shoot that you do not want that animal. Once you shoot, that is your animal. If you do not shoot an animal you only pay $200.

Licenses & Hunter Ed

No License or Hunter Education is required for buffalo hunting. If you plan to hunt other animals consult with Bearpaw Outfitters regarding additional licenses that may be needed. Hunter Ed is required to hunt other animals if you were born after Jan 1, 1985. 

Trophy Quality

Trophy buffalo bulls, young bulls, cows, and yearlings are offered. These huge animals usually weigh anywhere from 450 to nearly 2000 pounds depending on the age and sex of the animal that you shoot. Cows and younger animals provide the best eating meat. Old bulls have the largest horns but have tougher meat.

Many record-class Buffalo (bison) have been taken. We usually have buffalo of all sizes available. Yearlings and old bulls are normally the first to sell out each season. We do have a few huge bulls available for this season, so don't wait, call now, these large bulls are not available that often and are very hard to find.

Weapons & Shot Opportunity

Hunters may use any weapon they are proficient with that's large enough to bring down a bison, this includes rifles, bows, pistols, and black powder. Shot opportunity has been 100%. We can usually get within 30 to 100 yards or less, so practice at those distances.

Hunting Area

We operate on a private ranches in Western Montana less than 1 hour from Missoula and in Eastern Montana about 1 1/2 hours drive from Billings, Montana.

How We Hunt

After animals are located, we will glass the herd to locate the right animal for you. Then we'll make a careful approach with the vehicle to get you safely within range for the shot! Buffalo are unpredictable and have been known to charge humans and vehicles, so hunters need to stay in the vehicle for their own safety. When we are within range you will get out to shoot the animal. If you do not like the animal suggested by the guide, you need to tell him before you shoot that you do not want that animal. Once you shoot an animal it's your animal. Next, we'll wait for the herd to move off for everyone's safety. Then we field dress and load the animal and go to the skinning area. Local cutting and wrapping is available or we'll load the carcass into your vehicle for your return trip back home. Shipping can be arranged if needed, but it's far cheaper to transport your buffalo with you.

Season and Best Time

Although there is no specific hunting season, most hunts occur from September to March. The best hides are taken from December to February when bison have the thickest winter hair.

Guided Hunts

We only offer guided hunts due to the danger when hunting these giant animals. Bearpaw Outfitters can arrange a hunt for the size of animal that best suites your desires and budget.

Meat Available

Many people have asked about buying meat. Bearpaw Outfitters will try to arrange purchase and delivery of a half or whole buffalo. CALL

Accommodations

Ranch House: Most hunts take one day. Larger groups may need to plan 2 or 3 days for their hunt. Overnight stay at the ranch house with meals is available by prior appointment for $100 per night for one or two persons. Additional persons are $50 per night.

Temperature & Weather

September and October may frost at night, but days often warm up to 40 degrees or more. Late October to February temps often range from 0 to 40 degrees and snow is possible. Check current weather forecasts on the Montana Home Page before leaving for your hunt.

Taxidermy and Meat Processing

Both services are available locally for a fee or you can transport your animal home. Local meat processing is usually done in 1 or 2 days.

What’s Not Included

Taxidermy, meat processing, any necessary licenses for other animals, gratuities, and any other items not listed as being included. Bring your personal gear, snacks, and drinks.