HUNTING
The lands surrounding this Stillwater River property lie within a productive big-game and upland habitat zone in south-central Montana, offering year-round wildlife presence and diverse hunting opportunities. The area supports mule deer and white-tailed deer populations that are hunted through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) managed Deer & Elk Hunting Districts, where both general licenses and limited-entry tags may apply depending on species and district.
Elk are also present in portions of the broader region and may be available through appropriate district seasons and tag quotas, though elk densities can be lower on private valley floor lands compared to adjacent forested public lands.
In addition to big game, the upland and waterfowl hunting is great along the Stillwater Corridor. Birds such as pheasant, grouse, and Hungarian partridge are commonly found along river corridors, riparian draws, and agricultural edges, while waterfowl move along the Stillwater River during seasonal migrations. These settings also attract turkey and small predator species, adding layers of recreational opportunity for bird hunters and varmint enthusiasts alike.
FISHING
The Stillwater River is widely regarded as one of south-central Montana’s premier fly-fishing destinations, offering anglers a classic freestone river experience with rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout throughout much of its course. The river originates in the Beartooth Mountains and flows through a mix of rugged canyon, prairie, and riparian habitat before joining the Yellowstone River near Columbus, providing diverse water types and scenic backdrops.
Wild trout are abundant, and summer dry-fly fishing—especially July through September—can be particularly productive, with strong hatches and aggressive feeding activity that reward both wade anglers and float fishers alike. Water clarity and flows vary seasonally, but the river’s cool, clean water supports consistent fish activity and excellent opportunities for anglers seeking solitude and quality sport in a less-crowded setting than some of Montana’s more famous waters.
