Rising Son Outfitters

Rising Son Outfitters operates from 361 Mill Creek Rd in Livingston, Montana (License #333), running guided hunts in the Gallatin National Forest and Absaroka Wilderness. The outfit uses Montana's fair-chase regulations—no dogs, no bait—and focuses on spot-and-stalk hunting methods from horseback to remote, high-altitude camps.

Spring Black Bear Hunts (May) Five-day fair-chase expeditions featuring 2:1 guide service. Hunters access bears via horseback glassing from high mountain vantage points. Montana's spring season coincides with bears emerging from dens and actively foraging for tender vegetation. The operation has a track record of success locating trophy bears in various color phases. Bonus: hunters frequently find shed antlers during these trips.

Archery Elk & Deer Hunts Bowhunting expeditions using spot-and-stalk tactics in challenging backcountry terrain. Guides require a minimum 60-lb draw weight. Hunts demand heavy-spined arrows with 125-grain minimum broadheads. Non-insulated waterproof boots (Kennetrek or Meindl recommended) and absolute silence in all clothing are non-negotiable.

Rifle Elk & Deer Hunts Rifle seasons accommodate .270 minimum caliber weapons. Five-day packages with 2:1 guide ratios, pack-in/pack-out logistics, and full camp support.

Mountain Goat Hunts High-altitude, steep-terrain hunts in snow or mixed conditions. Morning temps typically in the teens to 20s°F; daytime 30-60°F. Hunts may experience below-zero temperatures. Trekking poles provided. Medium-weight insulated boots recommended (heavy boots create difficulty with horseback riding and walking).

Hunters pack into remote camps via horseback. The operation maintains multiple backcountry camps including dedicated hunting lodges and insulated Arctic Oven tents rated for heavy snow loads. Sage Creek Camp and East Fork Trail Camp serve specific hunt zones. All camps feature professional cooking (head cook Dena manages meals), bunkhouse accommodations, and horse facilities.

Package inclusions: lodging, meals, airport shuttle from Bozeman area, and guide service. Hunters pack personal gear into one medium duffle (15" × 16" × 30") with waterproof bag option available.

Essential for All Hunts: - Montana hunting license (specific combo license for big game) - Blaze orange vest (400 sq in minimum) - Waterproof hunting boots - Moisture-wicking long underwear (NOT cotton) - Wool or fleece pants (no jeans) - Quiet, non-bulky jacket layers - Headlamp + extra batteries - Binoculars (guides provide rangefinders) - Day pack with waist strap

• •Rifle Hunts: .270 minimum rifle with sling and scope cover (neoprene); two boxes ammunition minimum; knife

• •Archery Hunts: 60+ lb draw weight bow; two releases; dozen+ heavy-spined arrows; 125-grain minimum broadheads; string wax; rangefinder

• •Weather Prep (Gallatin National Forest): Spring hunts see precipitation as rain or snow; mornings 20-40°F; daytime 50-70°F. High country hunts may have below-zero temps and snow. Prepare for variable conditions—layering is critical (insulated pants too bulky for active hiking; single-layer wool with varying underwear weights works better).

Operations led by outfitter Randy Petrich and head cook Dena. Full-time guides: Zach, Zane, and Zander. The family-run operation shows deep roots in Montana backcountry management—extensive photo gallery documents years of trail clearing, camp maintenance, pack horse training, and habitat work across Forest Service and private lands.

• •Absolutely no alcohol. Safety is stated top priority.

(406) 333-4624 [email protected] 361 Mill Creek Rd, Livingston, MT 59047

Call to discuss availability, pricing, and specific hunt preferences. Website indicates guides may be out on active hunts—email preferred for initial contact.