stirner
Well-Known Member
I'm sorry, but I haven't been in that area for quite a few years, so I can't give you a specific recommendation. But, right now call the Butte office (406-494-1953) and request a copy of this year's Block Management directory. Chat it up with the person, explain your situation, and see if they'll tell you what areas within the district to concentrate your search for the hunt. When you get the directory, look up the farms/ranches in the district to see which ones allow antelope hunting. BMA areas are usually hunted pretty heavily, so you may not want to use them. But, they will tell you where to concentrate your search. Take your wife/girlfriend out there 2-3 days before the season opens, and start knocking on doors. Don't just go to the big ranches, I've found that the guys that are barely making it can be the most generous. They may also tell you where the antelope like to go when they're pressured. If you find such a fellow, give him a box of good chocolates. After the hunt, take the time to thank him, and get his address. Send him a Xmas card and thank him again, you may want to hunt there again.
You want to hunt opening day because the antelope are running everywhere looking for a safe place. Don't bother chasing them. Set up in an open area where they can see for over 500 yards. Cabela's used to sell pairs of decoys, they work so well, that I have 2 sets and thinking of a 3rd. A couple of years ago, my daughter and I were relocating our set, and we just picked up the decoys, and tucked them under our arms. In the distance of 200 yards, two fawns walked up to within 20 yards from us. Leave at least 20'-30' between decoys, and at right angles to each other.
Good luck, and have fun with it.
