Recreation Policy - Hunting

Wildlife Management at MPG Ranch

At MPG Ranch, we value Montana’s principle of publicly owned wildlife. Hunting serves as a key tool for managing elk and white-tailed deer populations on the ranch. While providing public hunting opportunities is important, our primary goal is effective population management. The most effective method for controlling big game populations is through the harvest of female ungulates. For this reason, our hunting efforts focus on harvesting antlerless elk and white-tailed deer. Other big game and game bird species on the ranch do not currently require management through hunting. Each year, we average approximately 85 hunters who harvest around 50 antlerless elk. Hunter access varies annually based on our management needs and goals. We select hunters based on their skills and their history of volunteering with the ranch. Permission is rarely granted to hunters unfamiliar with MPG Ranch.

Getting Involved in Hunting at MPG Ranch

Hunters interested in participating at MPG Ranch should subscribe to our newsletter for updates on available opportunities. New hunters must visit our shooting range to demonstrate their shooting skills before gaining hunting access. All big game hunters are required to use non-lead ammunition, and elk hunts are supervised by ranch hunt coordinators. We also host an annual Youth Field Day for hunters aged 10–14. Participants learn about wildlife conservation and rifle accuracy. Those who complete the course and demonstrate exceptional shooting skills may earn a chance to hunt antlerless elk on the ranch. For more information on this program, contact us at [email protected].

Visitor Access

MPG Ranch does not offer general open access. Since 2010, thousands of visitors have come to the ranch as part of school groups, volunteer projects, or guided tours. If you’re interested in visiting, we recommend subscribing to our newsletter to learn about upcoming opportunities. For other inquiries, email [email protected].

If you observe an unsafe situation or suspect illegal activities on the ranch, please contact Ranch Manager Philip Ramsey at 406-546-0699.