MT Elk Unit 590

# MT 590 Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Access Unit 590 spans 1.87 million acres across southwestern Montana at elevations from 2,700–4,700 ft. Only 10% public land limits access significantly; most hunting requires crossing private ground or negotiating with landowners. Terrain ranges from sagebrush foothills to mixed forest at higher elevations. ## Herd Quality & Population Trophy record data from overlapping counties (Yellowstone and Musselshell) shows this area has produced record-book elk: 12 entries all-time, averaging 376–382. Recent entries (2019–2024) include a 396.6 and a 393.2, indicating the area retains potential for exceptional bulls. However, trend data shows only 1...