Before heading out on your elk hunt in Montana, youll want to check for the latest season dates. Each year can bring changes that affect when you can go after those big game targets. Montana boasts vast areas full of elk, ready for hunters like you seeking adventure across different terrainsâfrom rugged mountains to softer hills and grasslands. Usually, hunting seasons kick off in September and might last until November with various methods allowed: bow, muzzleloader or rifleâarchery usually begins first followed by others as autumn progresses. Â
For many hunters in Big Sky Country, spring and fall turkey seasons are highly anticipated events. Montana offers excellent turkey hunting opportunities across vast public lands and private ranches. Here we’ll cover key details on Montana’s turkey seasons including dates, licensing, bag limits, and regulations.
Spring Turkey Season
Montana’s spring turkey season takes place annually from mid April through the end of May. In 2024, the season runs from April 15 to May 31.
Only male wild turkeys are legal game during the spring season. Hunters are restricted to shotguns, muzzleloaders, and archery equipment. The limit is one bearded turkey per license.
Both residents and nonresidents must have a turkey license in addition to a conservation and upland game bird license Various regional and specialty female/youth licenses are also available
Fall Turkey Season
The fall turkey season runs from September 1 to January 1 each year During this period, hunters can harvest either sex wild turkey.
Rifles handguns shotguns, muzzleloaders, and archery tackle are legal for fall turkey hunting. The bag limit is typically one turkey per license but additional female licenses can be obtained.
Several different regional and specialty turkey licenses are offered for the fall just as in spring. A conservation and upland game bird license is also required.
Youth Turkey Season
Montana also provides special youth hunting days in April where hunters 12-15 years old can pursue spring gobblers before the general season opens. Youth must be accompanied by an adult mentor.
Licensing and Fees
There are several license options for spring and fall turkey hunting in Montana:
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General License – $6.50 for residents, $57.50 for nonresidents. Valid statewide in spring and certain regions in fall.
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Regional Licenses – $6.50 for residents, $57.50 for nonresidents. Valid in specified regions.
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Female/Youth Licenses – Various fees. Valid in certain counties or regions.
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Conservation License – $8 residents, $10 nonresidents. Provides base hunting privileges.
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Upland Game Bird License – $10 residents, $110 nonresidents. Required prerequisite for turkey.
Turkey Hunting Regulations
Key regulations turkey hunters must follow include:
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Tagging – Validate by notching month and date on license. Attach to leg during transport.
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Checking – Hunters must stop at check stations and show licenses when transporting turkeys.
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Sex ID – Leave leg attached to prove sex of spring gobblers.
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Transport – Head and beard must remain attached to spring birds.
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Permission – Written landowner permission required for all private land.
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Shooting Hours – Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset.
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Safety – Use caution, wear hunter orange when appropriate, and avoid turkey colors that can be mistaken for game.
Knowing season dates, license requirements, bag limits and hunting regulations is essential for a successful turkey hunt in Montana. With proper preparation and scouting, hunters can experience fantastic spring and fall turkey hunting in the Treasure State.
Navigating the Big Sky Season Dates
Big Sky countrys hunting season is well under way, with stations buzzing. Near Kalispell, at the Olney check point alone, 417 hunters made their stop; itâs part of a picture that reflects the thrill and breadth of Montanas outdoor pursuit. Now listen up if youre planning to join in: Deer and elk seasons last until November â so thereâs time left. You must visit any station on weekends from ten morning hours onward if you pass by one during your hunt; this helps track animal numbers though not every take is counted. Elk seekers should note Region 1 rules are strict. Only brow-tined bulls can be taken, unless special permits allow for exceptions in districts like Hunting District 170 or for certain PTHFV holders who may take an antlerless elk (always verify the specifics!). What defines these brows? If theyve got points over four inches long on the lower half beam! For white-tailed deer enthusiasts aiming for either-sex game using general licenses, October through end-season offers chances aplenty. Youngsters aged between ten to fifteen also have privileges here as do some vehicle based permit carriers throughout most areas barring specifics laid out within regulations that oughta be reviewed beforehand. Changes in land ownership mean hunters need fresh info about access rights too – Block Management Program checks will throw light upon new public entry spots onto previously corporate grounds! Â
The Bitterroot Mile Club Experience
At The Bitterroot Mile Club, youll find yourself surrounded by the raw beauty of Montanas Bitterroot Valley. Here, fly fishing is top-notch with exclusive river access. Picture waking up in a plush king bed; your room overlooks the rippling waters – natures own alarm clock! Lodging caps at 18 guests for an intimate feel. Opt for comfort in our main lodge or choose riverside glamping hutsâluxury meets wilderness. Each day promises fresh adventures: guided hikes and winter snow thrills included. What sets us apart? Our staff love these wild places deeplyâtheyre part local expert, part warm host who treat each guest like family. Â
Big Sky, Bigger Birds: Montana Wild Turkey | S2E01 | MeatEater
FAQ
Is turkey season open in Montana?
Reminder: 2024 spring turkey season begins today April 15 and goes until May 31. Also, the spring black bear hunting season starts today April 15 and goes until June 15. For some reminders on the 2024 season, visit: https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/seasons #mymontanahunt.
What are Montana hunting season dates?
| Season | Dates |
|---|---|
| Youth, deer only | Oct. 17 – Oct. 18, 2024 |
| General | Oct. 26 – Dec. 1, 2024 |
| Shoulder seasons | Aug. 15 – Feb. 15, 2024 |
| Muzzleloader | Dec. 14 – 22, 2024 |
Are Montana turkey tags over the counter?
General Turkey License – Over-the-Counter valid in General Hunting Areas (see map). Turkey License 1 April 10 – May 16 Male Wild Turkey. Shotgun/Archery only.
Where is the best place to hunt turkeys in Montana?
Turkey Hunting Seasons
Popular hunting areas include the Long Pines and Ashland areas of the Custer National Forest and portions of Fergus County and the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.