Montana hunters saw a wave of mountain lion regulation changes in late February as the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission enacted quota-driven closures in multiple Lion Management Units (LMUs). These closures are part of the state’s adaptive management approach designed to maintain stable lion populations while allowing sustainable harvest.
Effective one-half hour after sunset on February 21, 2026, LMU 121 closed to the harvest of all female mountain lions. That same evening, LMU 320 also shut down the take of females after reaching its quota.
Additional closures followed shortly thereafter. LMU 319 closed to the harvest of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on February 23, 2026, while LMU 680 closed to female lion harvest at the same time. Hunters are encouraged to check updated quota status before heading afield, as regulations can change quickly once thresholds are met.
How Montana’s Lion Season Works
Montana’s mountain lion seasons typically open December 1 in most districts and run through April 14, though exact dates vary by region. Harvest is regulated through sex-specific quotas within each LMU. Once a quota is met, hunting for that sex closes immediately to prevent overharvest.
This quota-based system means some districts close weeks or even months before the season’s scheduled end. Female quotas are often conservative to protect reproductive capacity, while male quotas can remain open longer in certain units depending on harvest pressure.
Early Closings Are Common in High-Pressure Units
Premature closures are not unusual, particularly in districts with good snow tracking conditions, strong lion densities, or easy access. Over the past decade, several western and central Montana LMUs have closed early after rapid quota fulfillment, especially during winters with favorable tracking snow.
In recent seasons, hunters have seen:
- Swift female quota closures in heavily hunted western districts
- Male quotas reached quickly where lion densities and hunter success rates are high
- Extended opportunities in more remote or lower-density regions
What Hunters Should Expect for the Rest of the Season
With multiple February closures already in place, additional LMUs could reach quota before spring if harvest pressure continues. Units with accessible terrain and strong hound-hunting participation are most likely to close early, while more remote districts may remain open into March or April.
Hunters planning late-season outings should monitor daily quota updates and be prepared to shift units if closures occur. As always, verifying unit status before traveling is essential.
Stay Updated in the Field
Because lion quotas can close with little notice, staying informed is critical. The Hunterizer Seasons app provides real-time updates on Montana hunting news, current closures, and open opportunities, helping hunters quickly see what species are in season and where hunting remains available. Checking the app before leaving home — and again before entering the field — can help ensure compliance and maximize hunting opportunities.
To download The Hunterizer Seasons app and start your 7-day free trial visit:
https://hunterizer.com/apps/seasons/
Montana’s responsive management framework continues to balance predator conservation with hunting opportunity — and this season’s closures underscore both healthy lion populations and active hunter participation across the state.
