When is Montana Hunting Season? A Complete Guide

When Is Montana Hunting Season?

When the snow melts and the days start getting longer, Montanans know that it’s time to start planning for hunting season. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, there’s a hunting season for everyone in Montana.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different hunting seasons in Montana, including when they start and end, what animals you can hunt, and where you can hunt them. We’ll also provide some tips on how to get started hunting in Montana.

So if you’re ready to experience the thrill of the hunt, read on!

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Animal	Season	Dates
Deer	Archery	August 28 – October 23
Deer	Muzzleloader	November 2 – 13
Deer	Rifle	November 14 – December 11
Elk	Archery	September 1 – October 23
Elk	Rifle	October 24 – November 28
Antelope	Archery	August 15 – September 15
Antelope	Rifle	September 16 – October 28

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Montana is a state with a rich hunting tradition, and the state offers a wide variety of hunting opportunities. The state is home to a variety of big game animals, including elk, deer, antelope, moose, bear, and mountain lion. There are also plenty of opportunities to hunt upland game birds, waterfowl, furbearers, and small game.

The hunting seasons in Montana vary depending on the species and the region of the state. However, most big game seasons open in late August or early September and run through November. Upland game bird seasons typically open in late September or early October and run through January. Waterfowl seasons open in late October or early November and run through January or February. Furbearer seasons vary depending on the species, but most run from November through March. Small game seasons typically open in late September or early October and run through January.

General Hunting Season Dates

The following is a general overview of the hunting season dates in Montana for big game, upland game birds, waterfowl, furbearers, and small game.

• Big game:
• Elk: September 15-November 30
• Deer: September 15-November 30
• Antelope: September 15-November 30
• Moose: September 15-November 30
• Bear: April 15-May 31
• Mountain lion: August 15-February 28
• Wolves: November 15-February 28
• Coyotes: January 1-March 31
• Bobcats: January 1-March 31
• Upland game birds:
• Pheasant: September 15-January 31
• Grouse: September 15-January 31
• Quail: September 15-January 31
• Dove: September 1-October 31
• Waterfowl:
• Ducks: October 1-January 31
• Geese: October 1-January 31
• Swans: October 1-January 31
• Furbearers:
• Beavers: November 15-March 31
• Muskrats: November 15-March 31
• Racoons: January 1-March 31
• Skunks: January 1-March 31
• Small game:
• Ground squirrels: September 15-January 31
• Prairie dogs: September 15-January 31
• Rabbits: September 15-January 31
• Squirrels: September 15-January 31

Specific Hunting Season Dates by Species

The following is a more detailed list of the hunting season dates for specific species of big game, upland game birds, waterfowl, furbearers, and small game in Montana.

• Elk:
• General season: September 15-November 30
• Antlerless season: November 15-30
• Cow elk only season: December 1-31
• Deer:
• General season: September 15-November 30
• Antlerless season: November 15-30
• Cow elk only season: December 1-31
• Antelope:
• General season: September 15-November 30
• Antlerless season: November 15-30
• Moose:
• General season: September 15-November 30
• Antlerless season: November 15-30
• Bear:
• Spring black bear: April 15-May 31
• Grizzly bear: August 15-February 28
• Mountain lion:
• August 15-February 28
• Wolves:
• November 15-February 28
• Coyotes:
• January 1-March 31
• Bobcats:
• January 1-March 31
• Beavers:
• November 15-March 31
• Muskrats:
• November 15-March 31
• Raccoons:
• January 1-March 31
• Skunks:
• January 1-March 31
• Ground squirrels:
• September 15-January 31

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When Is Montana Hunting Season?

Montana has a long and rich hunting tradition, and the state offers a variety of hunting opportunities for both resident and non-resident hunters. The hunting seasons vary depending on the species, but the general seasons are as follows:

• Big game: Big game hunting season in Montana typically runs from early September to late December. Some species, such as elk and deer, have multiple seasons, while others, such as moose and mountain goat, have only one season.
• Upland game birds: Upland game bird hunting season in Montana typically runs from early September to late January. Some species, such as pheasant and grouse, have multiple seasons, while others, such as quail and dove, have only one season.
• Waterfowl: Waterfowl hunting season in Montana typically runs from early September to late January. Some species, such as ducks and geese, have multiple seasons, while others, such as mergansers and swans, have only one season.
• Furbearers: Furbearer hunting season in Montana typically runs from early October to late March. Some species, such as coyotes and beavers, have multiple seasons, while others, such as foxes and bobcats, have only one season.

For more specific information on hunting seasons in Montana, please visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

Other Considerations

In addition to knowing the hunting seasons, there are a few other things to consider before you go hunting in Montana. These include:

• Hunting licenses and permits: You will need to purchase a hunting license and any necessary permits before you can hunt in Montana. The cost of licenses and permits varies depending on the species you are hunting and your residency status. You can purchase licenses and permits online or at any Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks office.
• Hunting regulations: There are a number of hunting regulations in Montana that you must follow. These regulations cover everything from the types of weapons you can use to the size of the game you can harvest. You can find a complete list of hunting regulations on the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
• Hunting ethics: Hunting is a privilege, and it is important to practice ethical hunting practices. This means treating the animals you hunt with respect and taking steps to minimize the amount of suffering they experience. For more information on hunting ethics, please visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
• Hunting safety: Hunting is a dangerous activity, and it is important to take steps to stay safe. This means wearing the proper clothing and gear, being aware of your surroundings, and following all safety instructions. For more information on hunting safety, please visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

Resources

For more information on hunting in Montana, please visit the following resources:

• Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website is a great resource for information on hunting seasons, regulations, and ethics. You can also purchase licenses and permits online.
• National Rifle Association: The National Rifle Association is a great resource for information on hunting techniques, gear, and safety.
• Safari Club International: Safari Club International is a great resource for information on hunting big game animals.

Hunting is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and to connect with nature. By following the tips in this article, you can have a safe and enjoyable hunting experience in Montana.

When is Montana hunting season?

Montana’s hunting seasons vary depending on the species and the region of the state. The general hunting season runs from April 15 to November 30, but some seasons may begin earlier or end later. For specific dates, please consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

What types of animals can I hunt in Montana?

You can hunt a variety of animals in Montana, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and wolves. The specific animals that are available to hunt vary depending on the region of the state. For more information, please consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

Do I need a hunting license to hunt in Montana?

Yes, you need a hunting license to hunt in Montana. Licenses are available online or from any Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks office.

What are the requirements for a hunting license?

The requirements for a hunting license vary depending on the type of license you are applying for. For more information, please consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

**How do I get a hunting license?

You can get a hunting license online or from any Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks office. To apply online, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website. To apply in person, visit a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks office.

**What are the rules and regulations for hunting in Montana?

There are a number of rules and regulations for hunting in Montana. These rules and regulations are designed to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of hunters. For more information, please consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

**Where can I hunt in Montana?

You can hunt on public lands, private lands, or tribal lands. For more information on where you can hunt, please consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

**How do I prepare for hunting in Montana?

There are a number of things you can do to prepare for hunting in Montana. These include:

• Getting in shape
• Learning about the animals you are hunting
• Purchasing the necessary equipment
• Getting a hunting license
• Following the rules and regulations

By following these tips, you can have a safe and successful hunting experience in Montana.

Montana has a variety of hunting seasons for different animals, with some seasons lasting longer than others. The best time to go hunting depends on the species you are targeting and the area you plan to hunt in. Be sure to check the regulations before you go, and have a safe and successful hunting season!