What to Bring

    Preparing for your hunting adventure with Wayne Hill Outfitting in Noxon, Montana, means packing smart and packing right. Each hunt type has unique gear and clothing needs based on the season and terrain. Below is a detailed guide to help you get ready for your archery elk hunt, spring bear hunt, and rifle elk/deer combo hunt.

    Archery Elk Hunt — Late Summer to Early Fall

    Archery elk season in Montana typically runs from late August through September, bringing warm days and cool nights in mountainous terrain.

    Essential Gear:

  1. Archery Equipment: Your bow, arrows, broadheads, release, arm guard, and bow sight. Don't forget extra strings and broadheads.
  2. Your hunting license. Make sure you have everything you need and that the proper license has been sent to you or is on your phone if you have an e-tag. You should have a license and a carcass tag. Please make sure well in advance of your hunt. Your license should arrive no later than July. It is imperative that you have your license in order before you arrive for your hunt.
  3. Rangefinder: A reliable rangefinder is critical for precise shot placement.
  4. Camouflage Clothing: Lightweight, breathable camo suited for warm days but layered for cool mornings/evenings.
  5. Hunting Boots: Waterproof, broken-in boots with good ankle support.
  6. Rain Gear: Weather in the mountains can change quickly—pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and pants.
  7. Backpack: A comfortable day pack for gear, water, and snacks.
  8. Binoculars: Essential for spotting game from a distance.
  9. Headlamp: For early morning and late evening visibility.
  10. Hydration System: Water bottles or a hydration bladder to stay hydrated on long hikes.

    11. Clothing Suggestions:

  11. Moisture-wicking base layers
  12. Insulating mid-layer (fleece or wool)
  13. Durable outer layer (camo jacket and pants)
  14. Wool or synthetic socks

    15. Spring Bear Hunt — Early Spring

    Spring bear hunts in Montana occur as bears emerge from hibernation, usually March through mid-May. Weather can be wet and chilly, or warm. It is variable.

    Essential Gear:

  15. Rifle: Ensure it is sighted and in good condition, Ammunition.
  16. All necessary licenses. Make sure they are accurate and what you need to have. You will need to have the license and the carcass tag.
  17. Layered Clothing: Temperatures can fluctuate; layering is key.
  18. 2 pair Waterproof Boots with good traction.
  19. Rain Gear: Durable rain jacket and pants.
  20. Small day pack

    21. Clothing Suggestions:

  21. Moisture-wicking base layers
  22. Waterproof outer layers
  23. Wool socks or insulated socks
  24. Warm hat and gloves

    25. Rifle Elk/Deer Combo Hunt — Fall

    The rifle season for elk and deer usually runs from October through November. Fall in Montana means cool mornings, crisp air, and potentially snowy conditions.

    Essential Gear:

  25. Rifle and Ammunition: Make sure your rifle is zeroed in and bring plenty of ammo.
  26. Your hunting license. Make sure you have received it and it has a license and a carcass tag. If you applied for a paper tag, it should come in the mail no later than July. If it has not, check with Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks to receive it well in advance of your hunt. If you get an e-tag, please remember you did and verify everything is there.
  27. It is imperative that you verify your license status before you arrive.
  28. Waterproof and Insulated Boots: To handle rugged terrain and wet conditions. Best to have an airbob design sole or one suited to mountainous terrain. It is best to bring two pair of well broken in hiking boots.
  29. Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants made of soft material. You don't want to be noisy in the brush.
  30. Small Hunting Backpack: For gear, food, and water.
  31. Headlamp or Flashlight: For early morning or late evening use.
  32. Hydration Supplies: Water bottles or hydration packs.

    33. Clothing Suggestions:

  33. Moisture-wicking base layers
  34. Warm mid-layers (fleece, wool)
  35. Durable outer layers (waterproof jacket and pants)
  36. Insulated socks. It is also good to have wool or wool-like socks and several pair.
  37. Warm hat and gloves

    38. General Tips for All Hunts

    • Always check the weather forecast shortly before your trip and adjust your packing accordingly.
    • Pack light but make sure you have essentials for safety and comfort.
    • Label your gear and keep it organized to avoid last-minute scrambling.
    • If you have any questions about gear or packing, don't hesitate to contact us — we're here to help you prepare for a successful hunt!

    Personal Items

  38. Camera for trophy photos
  39. Personal medications
  40. Toiletries & personal care items
  41. Sunglasses & sunscreen
  42. Cash for tips & incidentals
  43. Phone charger

    44. What We Provide

  44. All meals
  45. Comfortable lodge accommodations
  46. Professional guide services
  47. Transportation to hunting areas
  48. Field dressing and retrieval
  49. Linens & towels

    50. Important Notes

    Weather in Montana can change quickly! September temperatures can range from 80°F during the day to below freezing at night. Come prepared for all conditions.

    Physical Fitness: Our hunts involve hiking in mountainous terrain. We recommend arriving in good physical condition for the best hunting experience.

    Questions? Contact us at (406) 531-3738 or hiloutfit@blackfoot.net if you have any questions about what to bring or prepare for your hunt.

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