So far, the temperatures and overall weather conditions have been mild this fall.

Don't get me wrong; it's nice to have more fall-like conditions as we head through autumn, but the milder weather raises a few concerns if you plan on spending any time in Montana's backcountry.

You may remember a few years back, we had very similar weather conditions as hunting season was beginning to kick off.

The days were in the low to mid-50s, and nights were in line with freezing.

One might think that snakes, especially rattlers, would not be out once the temperatures dip below freezing.

Well, I'm here to tell you that I almost learned the hard way that rattlesnakes are still very awake and out, even as the temperatures begin to dwindle.

A friend and I were out hunting and came across a rattlesnake den, and let me tell you, those snakes were still pretty darn active for as cold as it was.

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Rattle Snakes In Montana

Although rattlesnakes begin to settle in for the winter months as the temperatures dip below freezing, they don't entirely go to sleep for months.

Like bears, they become very lethargic and slow-moving but still make their way out of their dens when the temperatures rise.

Hence, if you're going to be hitting the backcountry to do a little hunting this year until the flurries fly, there's a strong possibility you'll stumble across a few rattlesnakes.

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