Montana shed hunters have a new set of regulations to navigate beginning in 2026 following legislation passed by the state Legislature and adopted by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). While resident shed hunters see no change, non-resident hunters will face two major shifts: a new required license and a temporary waiting period before they can collect antlers on many public lands.
New Non-Resident Shed Hunting License
Non-residents who want to collect naturally shed antlers on designated public lands in Montana — specifically Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) — must now purchase a non-resident shed hunting license. This license costs $50 and is required before you can legally pick up sheds on WMAs during the spring season.
When Non-Residents Can Pick Up Shed Antlers
Under the new law, non-resident shed hunters are prohibited from picking up antlers on WMAs for the first seven days after those areas open for the season in the spring. Most WMAs traditionally open to public access at 12:00 p.m. on May 15, though individual areas can vary, so it’s important to check the specific opening date for the WMA you plan to visit. After that initial week restriction, non-residents with the proper shed hunting license are allowed to collect antlers.
This waiting-period rule was designed to give Montana residents the first opportunity to search WMAs for sheds before an influx of out-of-state shed hunters arrives.
Where These Rules Apply (and Don’t)
The new non-resident licensing requirement and opening-week restriction apply specifically to Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) — public lands managed by FWP for wildlife habitat and recreational access where shed hunting is common in spring.
For other public lands, such as National Forest lands or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, these new requirements do not currently apply beyond existing state regulations. Likewise, private lands are not covered by this license rule, though of course permission from landowners is always required before entering private property for shed hunting.
Important Tips for Shed Hunters
– Check WMA opening dates before you plan your trip — some may differ from the typical May 15 start.
– Carry your license info (digital or printed) while hunting sheds on WMAs.
– Respect private property boundaries and always secure permission before entering private land.
With shed hunting’s popularity continuing to grow nationwide, Montana’s new regulation balances public access with hunter opportunity and wildlife stewardship. Out-of-state shed hunters should plan ahead this spring to stay within the law and make the most of their Montana adventures.
