Bighorn Sheep

General	Mid-September through late November
	2009 dates available. Book now!

Muscular and majestic, bighorn sheep thrive in the Montana high country. Rocky outcroppings camouflage the sure-footed cliffhangers as they zigzag across steep mountain faces on ledges as narrow as 2 inches. Despite their apparent bulk, bighorn sheep can and leap across 20-foot spans and ascend mountain slopes at 15 mph. Lest you think these animals are easier targets in the flats, they can cross level ground at 30 mph and swim freely, even with the heft of their horns.

Both male and female sheep bear horns. By the time a ram reaches about 7 years of age, he can sport a set of horns with a full curl and a spread of up to 33 inches. Ewes have shorter, smaller horns that never exceed half a curl.

All bighorn sheep hunts are fair chase; that is, the pursuit and taking of bighorn sheep is ethical, sportsmanlike, and lawful, in a manner that does not give the hunter an improper advantage over the animal.

Hunting Locations & Modes

We hunt sheep primarily in Area 501, located in the Custer National Forest; where we have Special Use Forest Service Permits. Our backpack camps are located in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness area, just north of Yellowstone National Park. The regions we hunt are scouted extensively throughout the year to locate bands of sheep.

Bighorn sheep are high-country animals; we hunt on foot at high elevations. On the first few days, which are are normally spent moving into the hunt area, expect to climb 4,000 to 5,000 feet.

Upon reaching camp, you will be hunting with a light pack, if any pack at all. You may walk anywhere from 5 to 10 miles in a day. The best method of hunting bighorn sheep is to sit and watch; spot and stalk.

Average Game Size

Most of the rams we take are around 6 or 7 years old. Their horns typically have a 3/4 to 4/5 curl and are 32 to 34 inches wide with a 14-inch base. Older sheep are tough to come by, and do not necessarily guarantee a larger horn. These animals live at altitudes near 10,000 feet year round, and the harsh elements of nature tend to restrict their growth.

Bighorn Sheep Hunts

At 9,000 to 12,000 feet, this high-country hunt is a great opportunity for bighorn sheep. The hunt takes place from mid-September to late November in an unlimited area, which means all who apply receive a license. Our hunters get several days of physically demanding hunting with guide and a personal packer. Two additional days are required for packing in and packing out.

Inquire about adding a mountain goat to this incredible hunt.