There are a few different ways to get a Montana hunting license. You can buy a license online, at a sporting goods store, or a license vendor. There are also various types of licenses available, so be sure to choose the right one for you.
The most common type of hunting license is the resident license. To qualify for a resident license, you must reside in Montana for at least six months out of the year. You must also be a U.S. citizen or have a permanent resident visa.
Nonresident licenses are also available, and there are several different types depending on your age and hunting experience. There are also licenses available for special hunts, such as elk or deer hunts.
Applying For A Montana Hunting License: What To Know
How Do I Apply For A Hunting Permit In My Area?
When purchasing a hunting license or permit, you may be needed to hold the Hunter Education Certificate.
Hunter education certification is required for Montana residents who plan to hunt.
Select The Appropriate Type Of License
Obtain a permit from the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website or through a business that has been authorized by the state of Montana.
Hunting Licenses In Montana
- Montana Resident
After 180 days in Montana, a person is considered a “resident”. Military personnel stationed in Montana are regarded as citizens of the state.
Before purchasing or applying for a hunting license or permit for a specific game species, all Montana residents over the age of 12 must have a Basic Hunting License and a Conservation License. For more information, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
- Non-Resident
Prior to purchasing or applying for specialized game species licenses and permits, all visitors aged 12 or older must obtain the Base Hunting License and Conservation Licence as pre-requirements.
Those wishing to hunt large game and deer may do so with the Come Home to Hunt License if they meet both of the following conditions. A licensed adult family member must accompany the person to obtain a hunting license.
In the past, you had to be a Montana resident and have either a hunting education certification or a resident hunting license in order to participate in this program.
A Montana-based relative of the applicant will act as the applicant’s sponsor.
It is possible to obtain a Montana Native Hunting License for a Nonresident if you meet both of the following requirements.
- They were born in the state of Montana, but they no longer call it home.
- They have an immediate family member who lives in Montana.
License To Hunt For Minors
For minors between the ages of 12 and 17, both residents and non-residents of Montana may qualify for a reduced-price license. For more information, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
Youth between the ages of 10 to 17 are eligible for the Apprentice Youth Program, which is open both to residents and non-residents. For more information, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
License To Hunt For Senior Citizens
Reduced-price licenses may be available to Montana residents 62 and older. For more information, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
Disabled Person’s Permit
Residents with disabilities in Montana may be eligible for a discounted conservation license fee. Permit to Hunt from a Car and Permit to Modify Archery Equipment are both free to download.
Licenses For Military And Veterans
A resident hunting license can be purchased by active-duty military personnel stationed in Montana for at least 30 days. It is possible to obtain a hunting license for active military troops who are Montana residents but are stationed outside the state.
Donated hunting licenses may be available for disabled veterans and active military personnel. It is required that they have a service-connected impairment of at least 70%. Program details can be obtained from the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.
Requirements For Migrating Waterfowl
When shooting migrating waterfowl, all hunters above the age of 16 must acquire the Federal Duck Stamp. Every hunter above the age of 12 must buy a Montana Migratory Bird Permit. Additional verification of participation in the Harvest Information Program is requested of hunters (HIP).
Licensing Ends
The end of February is the deadline for renewing hunting licenses. To be valid, species licenses and permits must be used during their designated periods.
Tips When Applying For A Hunting License
- Purchase licenses and permits before hunting season begins. Most sporting goods stores in the state sell them.
- Familiarize yourself with the regulations and seasons for the game you are pursuing. Regulations can be found in the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Hunting Regulations handbook.
- Use the correct license for your chosen type of hunting: big game, small game, waterfowl, etc.
- Carry your licenses and permits with you while hunting. They must be available for inspection upon request from a law enforcement officer.
- Report harvested game as soon as possible to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. This can be done either in person or by phone. Game check stations may also be available during certain hunting seasons.
How Much Is A Montana Hunting License
Hunting licenses in Montana vary in price, depending on the type of license purchased. A resident hunting license costs $20, while a non-resident license costs $250. There are also a variety of special permits and stamps that may be required, depending on the game being hunted. For more information, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
What’s It Like Hunting In Montana
Montana is a hunter’s paradise. With its wide-open spaces and abundance of games, there are plenty of opportunities to bag your limit. Deer, elk, antelope, and bighorn sheep are just some of the animals you can hunt here. But don’t forget the waterfowl; Montana is home to some of the best duck hunting in the country.
The state has a rich hunting heritage, and hunters are fiercely protective of their traditions. As a result, regulations can be quite restrictive. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules before you head out into the field.
But with a little preparation and patience, you’re sure to have a successful hunt in Montana. Good luck!
Conclusion
Wide vast spaces and an abundance of wildlife make Montana a hunter’s paradise. Hunters in Montana are extremely protective of their traditions, which has resulted in severe laws. Make sure you’re familiar with the rules before you get started in the field. Hunting in Montana can be a rewarding experience if you’re prepared and persistent.
