As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, hunters across the state of Montana eagerly anticipate the upcoming 2024-2025 hunting season. With its vast wilderness areas, diverse wildlife populations, and unparalleled hunting opportunities, Montana remains a top destination for hunters seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience. From the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rolling prairies of the eastern plains, Montana offers a wide range of hunting options for big game, small game, and waterfowl enthusiasts alike.
In the mountains, hunters will have the chance to pursue trophy elk, deer, moose, and bighorn sheep. The state’s renowned elk herds are known for their size and majestic beauty, while deer populations provide ample opportunities for both archery and rifle hunting. Moose and bighorn sheep, though less common, offer a unique and challenging hunting experience in the high country. Transitioning to the prairies, hunters will find abundant populations of antelope, upland game birds, and waterfowl. Antelope hunting in Montana is renowned for its fast-paced action and the chance to harvest a trophy-sized buck. Upland game bird hunting offers a variety of species, including pheasants, grouse, and partridges, providing a great opportunity for both experienced and novice hunters to enjoy the thrill of the chase. Waterfowl hunting in Montana is also highly regarded, with numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands providing excellent opportunities to bag ducks, geese, and other migratory birds.
To ensure a successful and safe hunting season, it is essential for hunters to prepare thoroughly. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and tags, studying the hunting regulations, and practicing safe hunting practices. Hunters should also take the time to scout their hunting areas, familiarize themselves with the terrain, and develop a plan for their hunt. With careful planning and preparation, hunters can maximize their chances of success and create lasting memories in the Montana wilderness.
Season Dates and Bag Limits
Montana’s hunting seasons for the 2024-2025 season are set, and hunters are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to pursue a variety of big game species. The season dates and bag limits vary depending on the species and hunting district, so it’s important for hunters to do their research before heading out into the field.
The general season for deer hunting in Montana runs from October 25th to November 24th, with a bag limit of two antlered deer or one antlerless deer per hunter. The archery season for deer runs from September 15th to October 24th, with a bag limit of one antlered deer per hunter. The muzzleloader season for deer runs from October 1st to October 24th, with a bag limit of one antlered deer per hunter.
The general season for elk hunting in Montana runs from October 15th to November 24th, with a bag limit of one bull elk per hunter. The archery season for elk runs from September 15th to October 14th, with a bag limit of one bull elk per hunter. The muzzleloader season for elk runs from October 1st to October 14th, with a bag limit of one bull elk per hunter.
| Species |
General Season Dates |
Archery Season Dates |
Muzzleloader Season Dates |
Bag Limit |
| Deer |
October 25th – November 24th |
September 15th – October 24th |
October 1st – October 24th |
2 antlered deer or 1 antlerless deer |
| Elk |
October 15th – November 24th |
September 15th – October 14th |
October 1st – October 14th |
1 bull elk |
Elk Hunting in Montana: Bow and Rifle Seasons
Bow Hunting
Montana’s archery season for elk runs from September 1 to September 15. Hunters must have an archery license and an elk tag. Archers can use compound bows, recurve bows, and longbows. Bowhunting for elk in Montana can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The terrain is often rugged, and the elk are wary of hunters. However, with the right preparation and a little luck, bowhunters can have a successful season.
Rifle Hunting
Rifle hunting for elk in Montana is a popular and challenging pursuit. The season runs from October 15 to November 26. Hunters must have a rifle license and an elk tag. Rifles must be chambered for cartridges that are at least .24 caliber and have a minimum barrel length of 20 inches. Rifle hunting for elk in Montana can be a great way to experience the state’s beautiful scenery and to harvest a trophy animal.
Elk Hunting Season Dates
| Season |
Dates |
| Bow Hunting |
September 1 – September 15 |
| Rifle Hunting |
October 15 – November 26 |
Deer Hunting in Montana: General and Controlled Hunts
General Hunting
Montana’s general deer hunting season is open to all hunters with a valid hunting license. General tags are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Hunters can apply for general tags online or through a license provider. The general deer hunting season typically runs from September to November.
Controlled Hunts
Controlled hunts are designed to manage deer populations and provide hunters with opportunities to harvest high-quality animals. Controlled hunts are available for either-sex deer, antlered deer, or antlerless deer. Hunters must apply for controlled hunts through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website. The application period typically runs from January to March.
Controlled hunts are divided into three types:
| Type |
Description |
| Type 1 |
Hunters may apply for any controlled hunt unit. |
| Type 2 |
Hunters may only apply for controlled hunt units in the region where they reside. |
| Type 3 |
Hunters may only apply for controlled hunt units in the region where they have a preference point. |
Antelope Hunting in Montana: Permits and Methods
Antelope hunting in Montana is a popular activity, with over 100,000 hunters participating each year. The season typically runs from September through November, and hunters can use a variety of methods to hunt antelope, including archery, rifle, and muzzleloader.
Permits
Antelope hunting permits are issued by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) on a first-come, first-served basis. Hunters can apply for permits online or by mail. The application period for the 2024-2025 season will open in January 2024.
Methods
Archery hunters can use any type of bow or arrow to hunt antelope. Rifle hunters can use any type of rifle that is legal for big game hunting in Montana. Muzzleloader hunters can use any type of muzzleloader that is legal for big game hunting in Montana.
Spot-and-stalk hunting
Spot-and-stalk hunting is the most common method used to hunt antelope. Hunters use binoculars or a spotting scope to locate antelope, then stalk the animals to within shooting range. Spot-and-stalk hunting requires patience and skill, as antelope are very wary animals.
Stand hunting
Stand hunting is another effective method for hunting antelope. Hunters set up a stand in an area where antelope are known to frequent, then wait for the animals to come within shooting range. Stand hunting is less active than spot-and-stalk hunting, but it can be just as effective.
Calling
Calling is a less common method used to hunt antelope. Hunters use a variety of calls to imitate the sounds of antelope, such as the buck’s bugle or the doe’s bleat. Calling can be effective in attracting antelope to within shooting range, but it requires practice to do well.
| Method |
Description |
Effectiveness |
| Spot-and-stalk hunting |
Hunters use binoculars or a spotting scope to locate antelope, then stalk the animals to within shooting range. |
Most common and effective method |
| Stand hunting |
Hunters set up a stand in an area where antelope are known to frequent, then wait for the animals to come within shooting range. |
Less active but can be just as effective |
| Calling |
Hunters use a variety of calls to imitate the sounds of antelope. |
Less common but can be effective if done well |
Black Bear Hunting in Montana: Season and Regulations
Season Dates
The Montana black bear hunting season for 2024-2025 runs from September 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025.
Bag Limit
Each hunter may take one black bear per year.
Hunting Methods
Black bears may be hunted using archery, rifle, muzzleloader, or handgun.
Baiting Regulations
Baiting is not allowed for black bear hunting in Montana.
Additional Regulations
- Hunters must have a valid Montana hunting license and black bear tag.
- Hunters must wear blaze orange during the archery season.
- Female bears with cubs may not be taken.
- Bears may not be taken within 100 yards of a residence without the landowner’s permission.
- Black bears taken during the season must be registered with the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) within 10 days of harvest.
Harvest Reporting
Hunters are required to report their black bear harvest to the FWP within 10 days of harvest. The following information must be included in the report:
| Information |
Required |
| Hunter’s name |
Yes |
| Hunter’s license number |
Yes |
| Bear’s sex |
Yes |
| Bear’s age |
Yes |
| Bear’s weight |
Yes |
| Location of harvest |
Yes |
| Date of harvest |
Yes |
Mountain Lion Hunting in Montana: Season and Safety
Season
The Montana mountain lion hunting season runs from September 15th to March 15th. The season is closed during the spring and summer months to protect the animals during their breeding and denning seasons.
Safety
Mountain lions are large, powerful predators. It is important to take precautions when hunting them to ensure your safety. These precautions include:
Hunting in pairs or groups
Never hunt mountain lions alone. Always hunt with a partner or in a group of three or more people.
Carrying a firearm
Carry a firearm that is capable of stopping a mountain lion. A .30-06 rifle or a 12-gauge shotgun with slugs is a good choice.
Making noise
Make noise while you are hunting. This will help to alert mountain lions to your presence and give them the opportunity to avoid you.
Using a decoy
A decoy can be used to attract the attention of a mountain lion. You can use a deer or elk decoy, or you can make your own decoy using a piece of fur or cloth.
Calling
Calling can also be used to attract the attention of a mountain lion. You can use a variety of calls, including fawn distress calls or coyote howls.
Retrieving your kill
Once you have killed a mountain lion, it is important to retrieve it as soon as possible. This will help to prevent the meat from spoiling. When retrieving your kill, be sure to wear gloves and avoid touching the animal’s eyes, nose, or mouth.
Hunting Regulations
In addition to the general hunting regulations, there are specific regulations that apply to mountain lion hunting in Montana. These regulations include:
| Regulation |
Description |
| Bag limit |
One mountain lion per hunter per year |
| License requirements |
A valid Montana hunting license and a mountain lion tag are required |
| Baiting |
Baiting is not allowed |
| Trapping |
Trapping is not allowed |
| Hounding |
Hounding is not allowed |
| Electronic calls |
Electronic calls are not allowed |
Upland Game Bird Hunting: Pheasants, Grouse, and Partridge
Pheasants
Pheasant hunting season in Montana for 2024-2025 runs from September 13, 2024, to January 2, 2025, with a daily bag limit of three roosters. Pheasants are primarily found in the eastern part of the state, with the Missouri River Breaks being a popular hunting area.
Grouse
Montana has three species of grouse: ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, and spruce grouse. Ruffed grouse season runs from September 13, 2024, to January 2, 2025, with a daily bag limit of five. Sharp-tailed grouse season runs from September 13, 2024, to December 14, 2024, with a daily bag limit of three. Spruce grouse season runs from September 13, 2024, to October 31, 2024, with a daily bag limit of two.
Partridge
Gray partridge season in Montana runs from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, with a daily bag limit of five. Partridges are primarily found in the western part of the state, with the Bitterroot Valley being a popular hunting area.
| Species |
Season Dates |
Daily Bag Limit |
| Pheasants |
September 13, 2024 – January 2, 2025 |
3 roosters |
| Ruffed Grouse |
September 13, 2024 – January 2, 2025 |
5 |
| Sharp-tailed Grouse |
September 13, 2024 – December 14, 2024 |
3 |
| Spruce Grouse |
September 13, 2024 – October 31, 2024 |
2 |
| Gray Partridge |
October 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024 |
5 |
Waterfowl Hunting in Montana: Duck and Goose Seasons
Duck Hunting Zones
Montana is divided into four duck hunting zones: East, Central, West, and Hi-Line. Each zone has its own season dates and bag limits.
Goose Hunting Zones
Montana is divided into two goose hunting zones: Eastern and Western. Each zone has its own season dates and bag limits.
Hunting Methods
Waterfowl can be hunted using shotguns, archery, and muzzleloaders.
Hunting Hours
Waterfowl can be hunted from sunrise to sunset.
Bag Limits
The daily bag limit for ducks is six, and the daily bag limit for geese is five.
Possession Limits
The possession limit for ducks and geese is three times the daily bag limit.
Reporting Requirements
Hunters are required to report their waterfowl harvest within 48 hours of the harvest.
Nontoxic Shot Regulations
Nontoxic shot is required for hunting waterfowl in Montana. See the table below for a list of approved nontoxic shot materials:
| Material |
| Bismuth |
| Hevi-Shot |
| Steel |
| Tungsten-Iron |
| Tungsten-Matrix |
| Tungsten-Polymer |
| Tungsten-Tin-Bismuth |
Turkey hunting in Montana offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for hunters of all skill levels. The state’s diverse landscapes and abundant turkey populations provide ample opportunities for success. Whether you prefer the excitement of spring gobbling or the challenge of fall hunting, Montana has it all.
Spring Turkey Hunting
Montana’s spring turkey season typically runs from mid-April to mid-May. During this time, male turkeys are actively seeking mates, making them more vocal and visible. Hunters use decoys, calls, and camouflage to attract and harvest male turkeys, known as toms.
Fall Turkey Hunting
Montana’s fall turkey season runs from September through October. In the fall, turkeys have formed flocks and are focused on foraging for food. Hunters typically use spot-and-stalk tactics to locate and harvest turkeys.
Turkey Hunting Regulations
Turkey hunting in Montana is regulated by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) department. Hunters must purchase a turkey license and follow specific regulations, including:
- Bag limit: One turkey per hunter, per season
- Spring season bag limit: Up to two toms
- Shotguns or muzzleloaders only
- No baiting or electronic calls allowed
Turkey Hunting Areas
Turkey hunting is available in most parts of Montana, with prime areas including:
- The Missouri River Breaks
- The Blackfoot Valley
- The Bitterroot Valley
Turkey Hunting Tips
To increase your chances of success, consider the following tips:
- Scout the area beforehand to identify turkey habitat
- Use a variety of calls to attract turkeys
- Stay concealed and avoid making noise
- Be patient and persistent
| Season |
Dates |
Bag Limit |
| Spring |
Mid-April to mid-May |
Up to two toms |
| Fall |
September through October |
One turkey per hunter |
Predator Hunting in Montana: Bobcat, Coyote, and Fox
1. Bobcat Hunting
Bobcat hunting season in Montana runs from November 15 to March 1. Hunters may use rifles, shotguns, or archery.
2. Coyote Hunting
Coyote hunting is open year-round in Montana. Hunters may use any legal method, including rifles, shotguns, archery, or trapping.
3. Fox Hunting
Fox hunting is also open year-round in Montana. Hunters may use any legal method, including rifles, shotguns, archery, or trapping.
4. Predator Trapping
Predator trapping is a popular way to hunt bobcats, coyotes, and foxes in Montana. Traps must be set in accordance with state regulations.
5. Predator Hunting Regulations
There are specific regulations for predator hunting in Montana, including bag limits and open seasons. Be sure to check the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website for the latest regulations.
6. Predator Hunting Safety
Predator hunting can be dangerous, so it is important to take precautions. Wear blaze orange clothing, be aware of your surroundings, and never approach a trapped animal.
7. Predator Hunting Equipment
The right equipment can make predator hunting more successful. Use a good rifle or shotgun, and be sure to have the proper clothing and safety gear.
8. Predator Hunting Tactics
There are a variety of predator hunting tactics that can be used to increase your chances of success. Research different methods and find one that works for you.
9. Predator Hunting Season Dates
The predator hunting season dates in Montana vary depending on the species and the area you are hunting. Check the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website for the latest season dates.
10. Predator Hunting Tips
Here are some tips for predator hunting in Montana:
| Tip |
Description |
| Be patient |
Predators are often wary and difficult to hunt. Be patient and persistent, and you will eventually be successful. |
| Use cover |
Predators are more likely to approach if they feel safe. Use cover to conceal your movements and yourself. |
| Call predators in |
Predator calls can be an effective way to attract predators to your location. Use calls sparingly and realistically. |
Montana Hunting Season 2024-2025 Outlook
The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) has released its outlook for the 2024-2025 hunting season, and the news is generally positive. Overall, hunter success rates are expected to be similar to or slightly higher than last year. This is due to a combination of factors, including favorable weather conditions, good habitat, and a stable or increasing population of game animals.
Some of the highlights of the FWP’s outlook include:
- Elk hunting is expected to be good throughout the state, with elk populations at or near long-term objectives in most areas.
- Deer hunting is also expected to be good, with overall deer numbers stable to slightly increasing.
- Antelope hunting is expected to be fair to good, with populations stable or slightly decreasing in some areas.
- Moose hunting is expected to be good, with populations stable or increasing in most areas.
- Black bear hunting is expected to be good, with populations stable or increasing in most areas.
People Also Ask About Montana Hunting Season 2024-2025
When is the Montana hunting season?
The Montana hunting season for 2024-2025 begins on September 1, 2024, and ends on February 28, 2025.
What are the hunting license fees for Montana?
The cost of a Montana hunting license varies depending on the type of license and the residency of the hunter. For more information, please visit the FWP website.
How do I apply for a Montana hunting license?
You can apply for a Montana hunting license online, by mail, or at a license provider. For more information, please visit the FWP website.
What are the bag limits for Montana hunting?
The bag limits for Montana hunting vary depending on the type of animal and the hunting method. For more information, please visit the FWP website.
What are the safety regulations for Montana hunting?
There are a number of safety regulations that hunters must follow when hunting in Montana. These regulations include wearing hunter orange, carrying a whistle, and following the four rules of firearm safety.
