Montana has significantly reduced its wolf harvest quota for the upcoming season after a new population model estimated substantially fewer wolves in the state. Hunters will also see new regional quotas and other changes to wolf regulations for 2026–27.
Three feral rabbits in Billings tested positive for RHDV2, a highly contagious and often fatal disease that can also infect Montana’s wild cottontails, jackrabbits and snowshoe hares.
Illegal hunting activities spanning Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin counties end with convictions and hunting privilege suspensions
Hunters won’t see grizzly seasons return yet, but the proposal could give western states much greater authority to manage bears and respond to conflicts.
A lawsuit filed by two Montana lawmakers and hunting organizations could reshape wolf management in the state by requiring Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) to adopt more aggressive hunting and trapping regulations. A recent court ruling allows the case to move forward, setting the stage for a closely watched legal battle over how wolves should be managed in Montana.
A Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks advisory committee spent two days discussing one of the most controversial public-access issues in the West: corner crossing. While no immediate policy changes emerged from the June 1–2 meeting, the debate over access to nearly 871,000 acres of corner-locked public land in Montana is far from over.
Citizen Tip Leads Wardens to Illegal Harvest of a 182-Inch Whitetail Before Montana’s Archery Season Opened
Spring surveys in eastern Montana delivered encouraging news for mule deer hunters, with strong increases reported in both the northeast and southeast. While some regions are seeing improving numbers after several favorable winters, mule deer populations remain below long-term averages in parts of the state and recovery continues to vary by region.
Montana hunters are now watching one of the most consequential public land access battles in recent years. After Montana officials publicly reaffirmed that corner crossing is illegal, two major access advocacy groups responded with a lawsuit seeking to overturn that position and secure access to hundreds of thousands of acres of public land currently considered corner-locked.
Montana hunters who applied for once-in-a-lifetime species can now see whether they drew a coveted 2026 tag. With moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat and bison results posted, attention now shifts to the next major deadlines for elk B, deer B, antelope, mountain lion and other opportunities across the state.
A missing hiker was found dead near Glacier National Park after authorities launched a backcountry search operation. Investigators say injuries and evidence at the scene point to a likely bear attack, underscoring the risks hunters and outdoorsmen face during Montana’s spring bear activity period.
A Texas man was sentenced this week in federal court after investigators connected him to a large illegal eagle trafficking operation centered on Montana’s Flathead Indian Reservation. Federal authorities say the broader case involved thousands of illegally killed birds, including bald and golden eagles sold on the black market.
Montana hunters still have time to apply for several of the state’s most sought-after big game licenses, but the first major deadline is fast approaching. Applications for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat and bison are due May 1, followed by elk B, deer B and antelope applications due June 1. Here’s what hunters need to know about where to apply and how the process works.
A Tennessee man has permanently lost hunting and fishing privileges following multiple poaching cases across western Montana. The convictions stem from several illegal kills, license violations, and trespassing incidents that occurred over multiple seasons.
Montana hunters can now check their 2026 elk and deer permit drawing results after the state’s major mid-April release. While many hunters are celebrating successful draws, several key application deadlines — including antelope and B licenses — are still approaching later this spring and summer.
A newly introduced Senate bill targeting big game migration corridors is drawing rare bipartisan support—but its path through Congress remains uncertain. Here’s what hunters need to know now.
Targeted action in northern Idaho marks first wolf removal effort of its kind in the Panhandle region. Officials say the move is aimed at improving struggling elk populations, while critics question long-term strategy.
Big changes this year for out-of-state shed hunters in Montana — a new license and a waiting period on popular Wildlife Management Areas. Learn when you can pick up antlers, where the restrictions apply, and what lands are affected.
The new license year launches license sales and big game applications while major regulatory and legislative changes reshape opportunity. Hunters should note new nonresident bird season timing, adjusted deer license quotas, and updates affecting big game access.
Several Lion Management Units (LMUs) have shut down harvest of specific sexes after quotas were reached, reflecting strong hunter participation and tight population management. Montana’s quota-driven system continues to produce early closures in high-pressure areas while other districts remain open.
Seasonal hiring across national forests and grasslands aims to strengthen habitat projects, wildfire preparedness, and public access ahead of the 2026 field season. The added workforce will support recreation, wildlife monitoring, and conservation work that directly benefits hunters and other public land users. Applications are expected to open in the coming months, offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to work where they hunt and explore.
Harvest quotas are triggering early shutdowns in several trapping districts, including Region 4’s Feb. 11 closure after exceeding its limit. While some areas remain open, hunters and trappers face rapidly changing conditions as FWP monitors harvest totals statewide. Staying on top of quota updates is critical as the 2025–26 bobcat season enters its final stretch.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has published the official 2026 big game regulations for deer, elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and bison. Hunterizer has already rolled out detailed seasons and tag info for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and bison – deer, elk, and antelope updates coming next week. Mark your calendars for the drawing deadlines and start researching zones now for the best shot at tags this fall!
The U.S. Department of the Interior has issued a new order directing federal land agencies to expand hunting and fishing access while cutting back unnecessary regulations. The move reinforces hunting as a priority use of public lands and could open the door to more seasons, clearer rules, and fewer access restrictions for sportsmen.
Hunterizer, a leader in hunting regulation tools and public land access, proudly announces the release of the Hunterizer—a powerful new tool for understanding when hunting seasons are open across the U.S. (now supports California, Georgia, Idaho, Michigan, Montana, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin). Built to simplify the confusing patchwork of hunting regulations, …
Montana hunters and conservation groups have a new opportunity on the horizon. Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is now accepting proposals from nonprofit organizations interested in auctioning or running a lottery for special hunting licenses. These aren’t regular draw tags. They’re premium licenses – often valid in any district – and they bring serious fundraising …
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is taking a fresh look at how the state manages mule deer. A draft of the updated Mule Deer Management Plan is now open for public comment – and for hunters who spend time in the field, this is a chance to make your voice count. What’s Changing? The …
If you’re planning to hunt in Montana this season, mark your calendar. The deadline to apply for several special hunting licenses is June 1, 2025, by 11:45 p.m. MST. Miss it, and you’re out for the draw. Here’s what’s on the line: Licenses with a June 1 Deadline: Antelope (Special Drawing)This tag’s in high demand. …
Montana is one step closer to changing how some nonresident hunters access big game combination licenses. A bill moving through the Legislature would remove a current system that gives nonresident landowners a leg up in the draw. If passed, the new rule would take effect in 2026. Lawmakers and hunters alike are watching closely – …
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