Montana hunting season This guide will provide the necessary information for the dates and permit information for hunting seasons in Montana. 44 for distribution. Montana offers a variety of seasons that cater to different skill sets and preferences. 15, varying dates before and/or after the archery and general seasons Welcome to the 2024-2025 Montana Hunting Regulations. This could lead to a dip in waterfowl opportunities besides Canada geese, which remain healthy. Montana’s gray wolf hunt is a regulated activity where people can hunt gray wolves under specific rules. A hunter may purchase only one black bear license per year. By checking the online harvest page Dec 6, 2024 · Following the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Montana’s 2024 general big game hunting season came to an end on Dec. 075 per copy, for a total estimated cost of $4,143. 2024 Hunting Seasons. Here’s a snapshot of the main hunts you can expect to find across the state. So, as you mark those calendars, remember to stay Sep 9, 2024 · An Introduction to Hunting in Montana . 2023. Here’s a snapshot of the Montana Wolf Hunting season dates: Regulations. Mar 31, 2025 · It’s fall and hunting season is upon us. Enough is Enough! Feb 24, 2025 · Hunting Seasons. v 3 • Montana law requires members of the armed forces and their dependents stationed in Montana to present a Montana hunter education certificate or similar certificate from any state or province when purchasing any Montana hunting license. 14, 2023, under the authority granted Aug 30, 2023 · For waterfowl, drought conditions have plagued northwest Montana through the summer and didn’t help local wetland conditions during nesting and brood rearing season. Season 1: Archery Elk (September 7 – October 20) Mar 15, 2024 · Learn about the hunting seasons for antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, black bear, deer, elk, furbearers, migratory birds, sandhill cranes, turkey, and wolf in Montana. Availability: Special Drawing Application Deadline: May 1 at 11:45 p. 6 General Oct. Hunt; Fish; State Parks; Activities; Conservation; Education Regulations. Harvest Reports. HELENA – The new license year opens March 1, which means that is the day you can buy your 2025 hunting, fishing and conservation licenses and begin applying for permits and special licenses. Jan 13, 2024 · Montana allows the hunting of various species including deer, elk, antelope, black bear, mountain lion, and wolves. 4. Successful either-sex bison license applicants will receive a letter with instructions to view online bison hunter orientation. Montana Wolf Hunting Season Dates. nd. Welcome to the 2024-2025 Montana Hunting Regulations. This Fall, Help Ensure Young Hunters Get An Edge; Hunting Access. Destination: WESTERN MONTANA Buy & Apply Home; Hunting Licenses; Fishing Licenses; Conservation License; State Parks Permits; Register Boats & OHVs; Outfitter & Commercial These are legal hunting rights and tribes will be out hunting during the State of Montana bison hunt. Mar 27, 2025 · Montana Elk Hunting Season. Mar 15, 2024 · 15. Montana’s Wildlife Management Areas and Public Lands offer prime hunting spots, but ensure you have proper permission. It is important to highlight that these dates are provided only as a general reference, and it is crucial to check current regulations or use FWP’s online Hunt Planner for specific dates. Launch maps, obtain legal descriptions, regulations, and statistics all in one place. 17, 2024, under the authority granted in MCA 87-1-301 and are valid from the date of adoption, through June 30, 2025. 20 Youth, deer only: Oct. Launch Hunt Planner . Spring: April 15 – May 31, 2025 or June 15, 2025; Hound Training (Spring): May 26 – June 15, 2025 Feb 24, 2025 · Elk Hunting Seasons. 2 to protect winter range for wildlife. Oct 24, 2024 · There is NO mule deer doe harvest allowed in hunting districts 621 and 622. Additional Information. Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Montana 2024-25 hunting season. • Hunting is restricted to individuals with licenses issued via a drawing process similar to that employed for other special licenses issued by FWP or as designated by Tribal authority. See the hunting forecasts and special drawing license information for 2024. whether the hunting license is for the rifl e or archery season. While some prefer the solitude of a spike camp in the high country, others stay near easier access points at base camp. • Even though the 2024 mountain lion season extends into the 2025 license year, the deadline to purchase 2024 licenses is Feb. Hunters across the state had mixed results, with hunters in Montana’s western regions seeing increased harvests compared to 2023, while hunters in many of the eastern regions reported mixed or decreased harvest numbers. The F&W Commission reserves the authority to amend the seasons, limits and regulations herein if deemed necessary for wildlife The following MCE Ranchlands are open to hunting of big game only with Lawful Archery Equipment as outlined in the hunting regulations provided by Montana FWP: Beginning at the junction of the Old Stage Road (county road) and Elk Ridge Road (Forest Service Road 5149) in Section 22, T8N, R10W and proceeding west along the Elk Ridge Road to the Dec 2, 2024 · The general rifle season closed on Dec. Last Updated: Spring 2024. Mar 8, 2024 · Montana had an estimated elk population of around 150,000 to 160,000 individuals in recent years. To get started with general information on Montana hunting districts, permits, licenses and seasons, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hunting website. Bag Limit. 18 General: Oct. 500. This year, FWP listened to concerns over Montana hunting regulations and engaged with stakeholders to come up with science-based solutions. • Montana law requires members of the armed forces and their Oct 11, 2024 · Bighorn sheep hunting in Montana’s HD 622 is officially off the table after an emergency closure—biologists counted just five sheep in the latest survey. Season Dates > Montana Hunt Planner. Dispersed hunting and fishing is allowed on state trust land with the purchase of your conservation license from FWP. Elk Hunting Season. 1 Shoulder seasons: Aug. SuperTag — Early July. by rule, closed all lands within the exterior boundaries of Montana’s Indian Reservations to the hunting of upland game birds with the use of state licenses unless provided for in a cooperative agreement between the Tribal Government and the State of Montana. Jan 10, 2025 · Shoulder season success will depend on landowners, hunters and FWP working closely together in a cooperative and respectful fashion. This season hunt-ers will again find amazing opportunities in terms of wildlife numbers and the access needed to pursue them, whether you are carrying a bow, rifle or shotgun. When you head into the field this year, you’ll again be participating in a tradition and heritage that truly makes Montana, Montana, where the outside is in us all. 12 Archery Sept. 5 %âãÏÓ 184 0 obj > endobj xref 184 47 0000000016 00000 n 0000001757 00000 n 0000001871 00000 n 0000003028 00000 n 0000003372 00000 n 0000003974 00000 n 0000004458 00000 n 0000005144 00000 n 0000005568 00000 n 0000005616 00000 n 0000005653 00000 n 0000005817 00000 n 0000005929 00000 n 0000006043 00000 n 0000006156 00000 n 0000006275 00000 n 0000006970 00000 n 0000007682 00000 n Regulations for season dates, structures, and restrictions were adopted by the F&W Commission on Aug. 20 per copy, for a total estimated cost of $25,551. The F&W Commission reserves the authority to amend the seasons, limits and regulations herein Pacific Flyway (continued) Swan-Hunting by Drawing Only. Oct 11, 2024 · Bighorn sheep hunting in Montana’s HD 622 is officially off the table after an emergency closure—biologists counted just five sheep in the latest survey. General Season: October 23 - November 28. Martha Williams, Director Turn In Poachers. As originally proposed — it was later revised by the committee — House Bill 222 would establish an open season for wolf hunting and trapping until the population reaches 600 animals. Let’s review how the three main seasons typically line up. Feb 10, 2025 · Deer and elk permit application deadline is April 1. But a federal judge’s ruling last year confined the trapping season. Licensing Youth Hunting Opportunities A resident or nonresident youth 12 years of age or olde may hunt any r Montana Hunting Season Dates. Hunting Hours (CR) - Authorized shooting hours begin one-half hour before sunrise and end at sunset each day of the hunting season unless otherwise stated in the regulations. Bighorn sheep quota status information may be obtained: By calling 1-800-385-7826 or 406-444-1989 for statewide information, or. Resident License Fees: $17. Big Game Hunting Outlook. Toggle navigation. In hunting districts with a bighorn sheep harvest quota (HDs 300, 303, 500, 501 and 502), when a hunting season quota is reached, the hunting season will close upon a 48-hour notice. That’s right: billions. Don't forget that general rifle season runs from October 22 to November 26. Swan hunters must have, as a means of retrieving swans, a watercraft, a dog capable of retrieving, or chest-high waders while hunting the dikes at Freezout. 2–Oct. Tribal treaty hunters will follow their own rules and regulations, however, state laws and regulations will apply in cases involving public safety and bison conservation. mt. Upland Game Bird regulations are typically posted mid July. Northwest Montana (Region 1) Western Montana (Region 2) Southwest Montana (Region 3) North-central Montana (Region 4) South-central Montana (Region 5) Northeast Montana (Region 6) Find detailed regulations for specific animals on the Species Regulation pages listed below or visit the Hunting License Overview page for general info Hunting License Overview > Find Regulations by District with the online Hunt Planner Go to the Hunt Planner Montana Hunting Regulations 2020 30,000 copies of this public document were published at an estimated cost of $0. MONTANA MUZZLELOADER HERITAGE SEASON Fish and Wildlife Commission established a special muzzleloader heritage hunting season from Dec 10-Dec 18, 2022. The commission listened to the feedback from the public and the regulations here represent a significant ef-fort to improve hunter opportunity, landowner concerns and public access. Apr 26, 2024 · 7 Key Takeaways on Montana Antelope Hunting. This practice is managed carefully to maintain a balance in the wolf population and support wildlife management goals. Hunting Access Enhancement Feb 13, 2025 · Montana’s current wolf season starts in September and runs into March — roughly five months of the year. 2-April 14. Montana Pheasant Hunting Season Oct 16, 2023 · Explore the Montana Deer Season 2023-2024, with comprehensive information on hunting regulations, licenses, and permits. Deadline to Apply for Tags: April 1st, 2025. The general season for hunting wolves ends on March 15, 2025 so there is plenty of time to get out there and hunt. Montana is well-known for its big game hunting opportunities, which include elk, bison, mule deer, and bear. 2024 Upland Game Bird Regulations Plan Your Hunt Online. Enough is Enough! Montana Hunting Regulations 2020 30,000 copies of this public document were published at an estimated cost of $0. 15–Nov. 7 - Dec. These can be found in abundance across Montana, but hunters can also enjoy several smaller species of game. What Months Are Hunting Season in Montana? The hunting seasons in Montana vary depending on the species being hunted. Waterfowl, Sandhill Crane, Mourning Dove & Snipe regulations are typically posted mid June. 08 for distribution. Mark this date on your calendar to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to apply for hunting tags in Montana. License. Montana shoulder season elk hunting is also popular among hunters. 75 for printing and an estimated $10,488. opportunities and long hunting seasons, we’re the envy of many other states around the country. Check out their Hunt page or Fish page for statewide regulations and other tips. What are the new changes to Montana hunting regulations for the current season? %PDF-1. A resident hunter with a valid mountain lion license is not required to have a Regulations for season dates, structures, and restrictions were adopted by the F&W Commission on Aug. hunting may occur concurrently with state bison hunting. Zone 2, includes Big Horn, Carbon, Custer, Prairie, Rosebud, Treasure and Yellowstone counties. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the regulations for your specific hunting district. Elk are a marquee species in Montana, dwelling in the majestic Rocky Mountains and lower foothills. 1 swan. Soon the mornings will be crisp and cold and the leaves will be turning. IMPORTANT. Archery: September 4 - October 17. Out of state spending (non-resident) in Montana provided a staggering $3. mgot. Moose License. Stay informed with the latest regulations, season dates, and essential hunting rules to ensure a safe and successful hunt. m. Regulations Adopted by the Fish & Wildlife Commission Regulations for season dates, structures, and restrictions were adopted by the F&W Commission on Dec. Regulations for season dates, structures, and restrictions were adopted by the F&W Commission on February 13, 2020, under the authority granted in MCA 87-1-301 and are valid March 1, 2020, through April14,2021. Launch the Montana Montana’s 2025 Big Game Hunting Regulations covering sheep, moose, mountain goat, and antelope are available. Details: Prerequisite licenses are Conservation and Base Hunting in order to apply. Antelope hunting seasons in Montana are typically from mid-September to mid-October, with early mornings and evenings being prime times. of completing a Montana hunter safety and education course (or an approved hunter education course from any other state or province) prior to applying for or purchasing a hunting license, whether the hunting license is for the rifle or archery season. Inside, you’ll find: Season Dates & Hunting Areas – Know when and where you can hunt 2022 - 2023 Hunting Season Dates – Biennial Season Setting The dates below represent proposed statewide season dates. Jan 1, 2025 · Montana Bird Hunting Seasons Span September 1 – January 1, 2025. Licensed hunters, 15 and under, will be able to hunt ducks, mergansers, geese, coots and pheasants statewide on these 2 days. Archery: Sept. 2024 Migratory Bird Regulations (PDF) Plan Your Hunt Online. 10 COMMON MISTAKES. The State of Montana and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes have In Bear Management Units with a harvest quota (BMUs 510, 520, 600 & 700), when a hunting season quota is reached or approached, the black bear hunting season in that district will close. It’s essential to review these regulations thoroughly to understand the Regulations. There is an additional $10 resident or $50 nonresident nonrefundable application fee for each license or permit you apply for. Find out the opening and closing dates, license fees, application process, and conservation efforts for each season. Along with this great information, we have some tips on being safe in bear country and the importance of being good stewards when hunting on private lands. 2–Sept. DEER & ELK 2024 SEASON. Bison Montana Hunting Regulations 2020 Laws and Rules Mar 13, 2025 · Key Deadlines and Details for Hunting in Montana. The 2025 regulations can be ordered from the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks office by calling 406-444-2535. Discover key details for a successful and enjoyable hunting experience in the breathtaking Montana wilderness. What if my bison has brucellosis? Is it safe to eat the meat? Hunting regulations and information for moose in Montana. Spanning from early September to late November, this season offers a unique and thrilling experience against the backdrop of Montana’s vast and picturesque landscapes. 2006 Elk Hunting Outlook; 2006 Mule Deer Hunting Outlook; Youth Hunting Opportunities. Find out more: fwp. Hunters are required to purchase a turkey tag in addition to a bird and conservation license. However, population numbers can vary due to factors such as hunting seasons, habitat conditions, and wildlife management efforts. Details: This license entitles the license holder to use a dog or dogs to aid in chasing mountain lions and/or bobcat in all valid mountain lion hunting districts in the state, except Hunting District 282, during the hound training season from Dec. Current and hot topics about hunting in Montana. All care has been taken in preparing this hunting Also, check out the new rules and regulations for this year. 2020 Black Bear Hunting Regulations Visit wpf . gov/hunt. Be aware of split seasons and carefully note closed and open days for hunting and note zone differences. Inside, you’ll find: Season Dates & Hunting Areas – Know when and where you can hunt Feb 13, 2020 · a Montana hunter safety and education course or an approved hunter safety course from any other state or province prior to applying for or purchasing a hunting license, whether the hunting license is for the rifle or archery season. Zone 1 includes all other counties in the Central Flyway portion of Montana. 00 for printing and $1,893. Montana Deer Season 2023. Hunters and trappers must call in their wolf harvest within 24 hours. misprint of season dates that contradicted the season structure adopted for HD446 adopted by the Commission in 2015. Hunting in Montana isn’t just a pastime, it’s a passion and a way of life. Make sure to note the dates and prepare for the upcoming Montana hunting seasons. In the following forecasts, FWP outlines what hunters can expect for deer, elk and pronghorn seasons around the state. 44, which includes $2,250. Region 2 leads the total harvest count closely followed by Region 3. 83 which includes $15,063. Jan 17, 2024 · Proposed UGB Regulations ‘24-’25 • Maintain Dog Training Regulations & Season as Status Quo from 2023 • A license for dog training on wild upland game birds was established in the 2023 legislature and a training season implemented by the Fish and Wildlife Commission • License is $5 for residents and $10 for nonresidents who Download the 2024 Montana hunting regulations for detailed information on hunting seasons, rules and requirements. Any unused license or permit valid for deer or elk on the last day of general deer and elk season (November 27, 2022) will be valid for that species during the muzzleloader heritage Download the 2023 Montana hunting regulations for detailed information on hunting seasons, rules and requirements. It’s part of our culture, our heritage, and essential to what make Montana, Montana. Season Dates/Process . Explore the diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Montana while enjoying a memorable hunting experience. Hunting is done in every region of the state, with each geographic area providing a different Aug 30, 2023 · 2023 Big game hunting seasons Pronghorn 900 series Aug. Every single year, hunting adds billions of dollars to the economy of Montana. Find comprehensive information on hunting regulations, seasons, and more. Montana elk offers multiple seasons—each with its distinct flavor. Mar 6, 2024 · This switches to a limited entry opportunity for the last two weeks of the general rifle and muzzleloader seasons. While the Montana Hunting Guide. The F&W Commission reserves the authority to amend the seasons, limits and regulations herein if deemed necessary for Jan 24, 2025 · The House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee this week advanced a pair of bills that aim to aggressively reduce wolf populations in Montana. MST Drawing Dates: Special — Mid-May. Feb 29, 2024 · If you are passionate about big game hunting, such as deer hunting or turkey hunting, Montana is one of the best states for you. The F&W Commission reserves the authority to amend the seasons, All hunting and fishing in Montana is regulated by Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP). 14 Genera… Sep 5, 2022 · The Montana hunting season provides the hunter with some amazing big game opportunities. 481-20. 26 - Dec. All licenses are non-transferable. Jan 3, 2025 · According to FWP there has been 133 wolves harvested in Montana this season. Here are MONTANA FWP Hunting Regulations Bison Bison bison TURN IN POACHERS: CALL 1-800-TIP-MONT 75,000 copies of this public document were published at an estimated cost of $0. Quota. Wolf regulations are typically posted late June. 7–Nov. Ice on way out at Tongue River Reservoir Mar-28-25 by Angela Montana Regulations. Montana has a spring gobbler season and an either-sex fall season. 50 (base + upland) Non-Resident License Fees: $125 (base + upland) Feb 12, 2025 · Montana's shed hunting bill is intended to curb trespassing on privately-owned winter ranges, tamp down conflict spurred on by intense competition for valuable antlers, and regulate a lucrative . Sunday in November) Maps from the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Hunt Planner are intended for use as a guide. With all the rules and regulations that need to be followed regarding hunting big game in Montana, here are 10 problem areas, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks game wardens, that hunters seem to stumble over year after year. View Annual The two zones have different season dates. Oct. It is every hunter's responsibility to know the land ownership of the area they are hunting, the hunting regulations, and any restrictions that may apply. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, check back because updates are still Sep 12, 2024 · Montana, as the fourth largest state, offers prairies, ranges, plateaus, valleys, lakes and great plains. With 147, 164 square miles evenly into each region, numbered 1 through 7. Under the Big Sky, this is the season many of us spend the whole year looking forward to. Landowner Permission (MCA 87-6-415) - A person may not hunt Mar 20, 2024 · The Montana duck hunting season generally begins in late September or early October, with a two-day Youth Waterfowl Season the preceding weekend. In December, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission passed regulations that restrict antlerless mule deer harvest to occur only on private land in FWP Regions 6 and 7, to include private lands enrolled in the Block Management Montana Bear Hunting 2024-2025. Youth Hunt: October 21 - October 22. Some 33 million acres of that land belongs to the public, which means a great deal of it is open for hunting. Season dates are the same as deer hunting season in Montana. 12 Bighorn Sheep Archery Sept. Species to be hunted in Montana during hunting season include:-Deer, Elk, Moose, Bison, Black Bear, Wolf, Antelope, Mountain Lion, Bighorn Sheep, Turkey, and a range of small game and game birds. • Montana law requires members of the armed forces and their dependents stationed in Montana to present a Montana hunter education certifi cate or similar certifi cate from any state or province when purchasing any Montana hunting license. Montana’s dove hunting season is a cherished time for outdoor enthusiasts and avid hunters alike. The Refuge is open to big game (antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer), bird (waterfowl, upland game, turkey and webless migratory bird), mountain lion and coyote Mar 26, 2025 · For elk and deer, Montana issues Big Game “Combo” tags that are valid for large parts of the state and have regional or unit-by-unit regulations that can differ slightly. 1. 2025 Spring Light Goose Conservation Order (PDF) 2024 Migratory Bird Regulations (PDF) Reporting Banded Birds View Montana turkey hunting regulations, including season dates, license requirements, legal methods, and regional guidelines for a safe, legal hunt. 17 - Oct. Find out the general dates and regulations for various hunting seasons in Montana, including antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, black bear, deer, elk, moose, mountain goat, mountain lion, sandhill crane, swan, turkey, upland game bird, and wolf. Some areas may have exceptions that are proposed as status quo or are identified in specific proposals. 14-22, 2024), are coming up. Many of Montana’s Wildlife Management Areas have seasonal closures that begin Dec. Launch the Montana Aug 15, 2024 · Montana’s young hunters will have a special treat the weekend of the youth waterfowl and pheasant special seasons, September 27-28, 2025. Antelope 900 8/15 – 11/13 (8/15 to 2. 28, 2025. Backcountry Archery: September 4 - September 14 This marked the last time stock from outside Montana was transplanted. Turkey Hunting Seasons. Season Dates. " Maps from the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Hunt Planner are intended for use as a guide. 25, 2022, under the authority granted in MCA 87-1-301 and are valid from the date of adoption, through June 30, be hunted in Montana. Maps from the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Hunt Planner are intended for use as a guide. Proposed 2022 Season Dates . fwp. Antelope. Apr 5, 2024 · Plan your hunting adventure with the Montana Hunting Seasons 2023-2024. All downloads below are in PDF format. The misprint created an overlap of one day for the general and archery season dates. 7 - Oct. Black bear harvest quota status information may be obtained: By calling 1-800-385-7826 or 406-444-1989 for statewide information MONTANA FISH, WILDLIFE & PARKS MONTANA FISH, WILDLIFE & PARKS . Regulations for upcoming seasons are posted online throughout the year. See official sunrise-sunset tables on page 11 in these regulations. In true Montana fashion, there is a huge opportunity to hunt black bears. gov Apr 19, 2024 · Montana’s Muzzleloader Season hunting regulations include several important guidelines for hunters, including: Hunting Permits – A person may legally take a deer or elk during this season with a valid license or permit that remains valid on the last day of the general hunting season. Feb 19, 2025 · Some of the 2025 hunting regulations are officially out, so if you’re itching to plan your season, now’s the time to take a look! But hold your horses (or bows/rifles)—regulations for some species and for trapping aren’t up on the FWP site just yet. 2025 Regulations: The full regulations can be found here. Below are the proposed 2025 season dates. Apr 26, 2024 · These dates give you a general idea, but it’s crucial to remember that hunting seasons can vary by district. • Montana law requires members of the armed forces and their Oct 26, 2024 · Montana Dove Hunting Season. Shoulder seasons will be focused on antlerless elk found primarily on private land. 15 - Feb. 2024 Wolf Regulations Mandatory Harvest Reporting & Pelt Tagging. At present, these tags can be drawn by non-residents every two to three years (at worst), and are over the counter for residents. Key points for hunters to remember: Season timing and lengths will be tailored to each hunting district, so know your regulations. 900 Series: August 15 – November 9, 2025; Archery: September 6 – October 10, 2025; General: October 11 – November 9, 2025; Black Bear. Subsequent trapping and relocating distributed turkeys through numerous sites in Montana. Regulations Adopted by Fish & Wildlife Commission Regulations for season dates, structures, and restrictions were adopted by the Fish & Wildlife Commission on February 4, 2021, under the authority granted in MCA 87-1-301 and are valid March 1, 2021, through February 28, 2022. This proposal simply returns the seasons (and rotating dates) to the previously adopted structure. For a comprehensive list and specific seasons, hunters should refer to Montana’s official Hunting Regulations. 1, but some winter hunting opportunities, such as the muzzleloader season (Dec. 5 billion to the state economy. Montana has the longest hunting in the West. wnn cchpa xyiu elaj jyqbk kxzeo btdz evadnf wzp jllrh xfgaa uec mashqig dxwb thmve