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Montana Elk

Unit 396-00

Montana Hunting Guide — Elk

Hunting District 396-00 is administered by Montana FWP in central Montana. The '00' suffix denotes a general license hunting class, meaning elk can be pursued with a standard Montana elk license rather than a special permit. FWP regulates harvest through season dates, weapon restrictions, and antler-point rules set in the annual regulations.

View Draw Odds Montana Hunting Guide

Elk Hunting in Unit 396-00

Hunting District 396-00 is administered by Montana FWP in central Montana. The '00' suffix denotes a general license hunting class, meaning elk can be pursued with a standard Montana elk license rather than a special permit. FWP regulates harvest through season dates, weapon restrictions, and antler-point rules set in the annual regulations.

Where to Find Elk in HD 396-00

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How to Hunt HD 396-00

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Elk Success Rates

Rifle23%

FWP harvest reports for central Montana general license elk districts typically show rifle success in the 15% to 30% range. Review the most recent FWP harvest summary for HD-specific figures before planning.

Elk Draw Odds

SeasonTagsApplicantsDraw %Pts Req
Rifle— B License5831,02656.8% 0

Data from 2025 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

HD 396-00 is a general license hunt class — no drawing required. Hunters buy a standard Montana elk license. FWP may designate overlapping special permit hunts for antlerless or brow-tined elk within the HD; check the current regulations each year.

Unit Logistics & Expectations

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does HD 396-00 require a special permit for elk?
No. The '00' suffix denotes the general license class — a standard Montana elk license is sufficient. Always verify current regulations, as HD classifications can change annually.
What is the terrain like in HD 396-00?
Island-range foothills with mixed timber, open parks, and broken ridgelines in Lewis and Clark NF country.

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Sources & Verification

Every fact on this page is tied to a primary source below. Last fact-checked 2026-04-17.

  1. 2026 FWP Deer, Elk & Antelope Regulations — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks · supports: Season dates, Legal weapons, HD boundaries, General license rules · accessed 2026-04-17
  2. FWP Hunt Planner — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks · supports: HD boundaries, Public-land access, USFS and state parcels · accessed 2026-04-17
  3. FWP Harvest Reports — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks · supports: HD-level success rates, Hunter-day counts, Bull:cow harvest ratios · accessed 2026-04-17