Montana tags for elk b tags deadline is June 1. They are $275.00. Shoulder seasons are being implemented on a vary wide spread basis, some of these seasons allow a cow to be taken up to Feb. 15. Obviously weather is the biggest factor this time of year, with sub zero temps and heavy snow likely in many areas. Thus a person needs to come prepared. Good news is, game care shouldn't be a problem! I think if I were coming from out of state, a two week summer trip would be in the works to make contact with a rancher/landowner who would allow hunting for a cow elk. Remember, just showing up in December and wanting to hunt elk after many ranchers have had to deal with folks seeking permission since the summer for hunting rights, they can be a bit impatient when you just show up at their door one day. There are ranches here in Montana that do allow hunting with trespass fees, check it out if it interest you. Make reservations for a place to stay, very unlikely to be nice enough to camp either in a tent or camper.