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West Slope Outfitters operates out of Niarada, Montana under Licensed Outfitter #5085. Shane Carr founded the operation on a simple principle: he's spent his life in these mountains and knows where the animals are when hunters need to find them.
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Full description and what we offer
West Slope Outfitters operates out of Niarada, Montana under Licensed Outfitter #5085. Shane Carr founded the operation on a simple principle: he's spent his life in these mountains and knows where the animals are when hunters need to find them.
Carr has been guiding since he was 18 years old—that's over 30 years of experience in the field. He's a native Montanan, licensed, insured, and a member of the Montana Outfitters and Guide Association. This isn't someone who read a manual; this is someone who grew up doing this work.
West Slope prefers horseback access into the backcountry. Their horses are mountain-trained, gentle, and sure-footed—designed for hunters who want to enjoy the experience, not just survive it. All riders must weigh less than 225 lbs, and day packs stay under 20 lbs.
Hunters should be prepared for long days. Typical daily distance is 5-8+ miles on foot, depending on terrain and animal location. Hunts run "dark to dark," so bring energy and realistic expectations.
"We have had years with near 100% and others with very low success. Success will vary greatly depending on the weather, individual's physical ability, hunters willingness to hunt every day of their hunt, and the species hunted."
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Guide | Included (1:2 ratio standard; 1:1 available with 1-month notice for additional fee) |
| Meals & Lodging | Full board at the lodge |
| Transportation | To/from Missoula, Montana airport |
| Field Processing | Gutting, skinning, caping, packing out included |
| Meat Processing | Can arrange with local processor (Elk $250-$350, Mule Deer $50-$150) |
| Taxidermy | Can deliver to local taxidermist |
Not included: Montana hunting licenses, processing fees, taxidermy costs, gratuity (15-20% standard for guides, plus tips for cooks and packers).
A 5-day hunt means 5 hunting days. Total trip time typically requires 7-9 days when accounting for travel. Arrival is no earlier than 2 PM the day before; departure no earlier than 8 AM the day after. Early morning flights may require a motel night on your final hunt day.
West Slope handles application guidance. Some licenses are over-the-counter; others require a draw. Contact them before applying so they can register you in their system. Application info available through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Beyond hunting season, West Slope offers:
Nearby attractions for non-hunting companions include Quinn Hot Springs, Bison Range, Glacier National Park, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and seasonal local events (fairs, festivals, rodeos).
West Slope runs a hands-on guide training program from April through December (6-9 months). Participants learn:
They partner with other area outfitters to provide varied experience. Room and board included. Contact for pricing.
West Slope provides printable gear guides covering:
Hunters choose their own caliber and ammunition. Common choices: 165-grain standard. The key is using what you're most accurate with. West Slope can advise but doesn't require specific setups.
Montana has both Black Bear (legal to hunt) and Grizzly Bear (protected species). Hunters must pass a bear ID test to ensure they can distinguish between them.
Familiar members can join for additional fees (room & board). They can ride along during hunts or stay at lodge with their own activities. All non-hunters require a contract—no showing up unannounced.
Phone: 1-406-741-5051 Cell: 1-406-261-7915 Location: 1234 West Road, Niarada, MT 59845 Email for general questions; call to discuss hunt details and bookings.
References available upon request. West Slope Outfitters is an Equal Opportunity Employer.