The mountain goat is
the least common, and least studied, big game species in North America.
As difficult as it is to draw a mountain goat license, even
mountain goat hunters could be considered a rare breed.
"In Montana, for fall 2004, only three percent of all applicants, with
and without bonus points, were successful in drawing one of the 333
licenses available," said Jeff Herbert, FWP Wildlife Division assistant
administrator. Mountain goat hunting season
generally opened Sept. 15
and closes Nov. 28.
In 2003, 304 mountain goats were harvested in Montana, 283 by residents
and 21 by nonresidents. Most mountain goats are found in southwestern
Montana. About 65 percent of the licenses issued are for hunting
in this area and, in recent years, about 65-70 percent of the statewide
harvest has occurred here.
Goats are the only mountain big game species that typically do not
winter at lower elevations. Mountain goats stay in the mountains
or may even gain elevation in the winter.
Goat hunters know first-hand that goats can climb. They out-climb
bighorn sheep hands down. Goats unique hooves with soft pads
surrounded by hard hoof "walls" give them the advantage. They also have
very large dew-claws, massive shoulder and chest muscles for pulling
the entire body upward, and short legs that provide a low center of
gravity for better balance.
For those interested in learning more about mountain goat hunting, here
are some answers to frequently asked questions.
When during the season should I hunt goats?
Season dates vary by hunting district, beginning Sept. 1 in a few
hunting districts, but generally Sept. 15. All mountain goat hunting
closes Nov. 28. Hunters must apply before May 1 for a license
that is distributed through a special drawing.
How do I judge a quality goat?
Mountain goats are tough to judge in the field. The mass of the horn is
key. Mature billys have horns with heavier bases and with the mass
going far out along the length of the horn. Another big factor is hair
length, including the long hair on chin, neck and "pantaloons." Most
hunters only take on mountain goat in a lifetime and that makes the
allure of lush hair strong.
Unfortunately, waiting for winter hair can cost dearly if it snows
heavily before the hunt. Goat country can be inaccessible or
very dangerous with snow on the ground. Check with local
biologists for local condition and tips.
What are my chances of harvesting a "record
book" mountain goat in Montana?
Montana is not known for record book goats. Even very old goats
from Montana do not score high. Habitat, population genetics,
and growing season length all play a role in horn growth. Less
than 100 Montana goats have scored high enough to make the Boone &
Crockett record book.
I"m in "pretty good" shape, but what does it take to
hunt goats?
Mountain goat hunting is a fair amount of work. In many areas, you will
need to be able to hike a minimum of 5-6 miles one way, uphill at high
elevation, with at least some of that distance off-trail in rugged,
steep terrain.
Very little goat hunting is day-trip hunting. Hunters need to be able
to carry a backpack and spend a few consecutive days in the mountains.
Like most activities, it takes a combination of physical conditioning
and mental attitude. The better prepared you are, the more
enjoyable the experience will be.
If I draw a mountain goat license, how long
do I have to wait before I can apply again?
After a hunter draws a license there is a mandatory seven-year waiting
period before applying again. If you get a license, savor each
and every day of hunting. Simply pursuing goats above timberline
is a "trophy hunting experience" in itself.
--Montana
Fish, Wildlife & Parks
http://www.fwp.state.mt.us/
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