Harvest success remains low in region 4 after the first full week of the general rifle season. This data was gathered in the Augusta area by the check station in region 4. Workers at the check station also reported the lowest hunter numbers in recent memory. Sunday, October 31st was reported as the worst day this week for hunter numbers.
Low Harvest Percentage in Montana
This check station has reported a harvest success rate of only 15% this week. That percentage is roughly 25% below recent averages. Elk harvest numbers are coming in at 50% under what biologists expected. Likewise, mule deer and whitetail harvest is down as well. Mule deer harvest is down only 8% of the average at the check station. However, whitetail harvest is down 21% of the average. FWP says the reason for the low harvest numbers is most likely due to the weather. Warm and dry conditions are making hunting more difficult thus far this season. Over the course of the hunting season, only one small weather system moved into the area. That system provided lower temps but little to no moisture.
The general deer and elk seasons run through Nov. 28th. During that time biologists expect some of the harvest success data to stabilize but they are unsure if the harvest data will be as good as the recent averages. Anyone hunting in region 4 that would like to stop in at the check station should do so. The station is located on Main Street in Augusta. Likewise, it operates seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and 10 p.m. on weekends. Hunters are reminded that if they come to a check station while out hunting they must stop.
You can read more about these harvest rates by clicking here to be taken to the FWP website. You can also look at our Montana hunting news page by clicking here.
So, what are your thoughts on the lower harvest rates? Have you been hunting in Montana this year? Let us know in the comments!
