Commissioners propose new hunting regulations in Montana

HELENA – Montana Fish and Wildlife Commissioners have proposed several amendments to the 2026/2027 hunting regulations. These proposals, released by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) last month, are open for public comment until December 1.

Commissioner Brooke of FWP Region 3 in southwest Montana has proposed removing the maximum let-off for hunting bows, addressing the fact that no archery manufacturers advertise an 80 percent let-off.

Commissioner Cebull from FWP Region 5 in southcentral Montana suggested two amendments. The first retains the archery black bear fall sub-quota in management units with quotas, increasing the quota percentage from 20 to 30 percent. The second allows hunters to purchase and accrue bonus points for limited draw black bear permits.

Chair Robinson of FWP Region 6 in northeast Montana has proposed an amendment that could reduce nonresident deer hunters by up to 5,000 each year. This amendment would prevent the sale of nonresident deer licenses made available when nonresident hunters purchase an Elk Combination License.

Commissioner Ian Wargo from FWP Region 1 in northwest Montana has proposed three amendments. The first changes antlerless mule deer B licenses to be valid only on private land, with exceptions. The second limits elk harvest on public land to one per person per year, with specific conditions on antlerless elk opportunities. The third reduces bighorn sheep license quotas for specific licenses.

Public comments on these proposals can be submitted through the Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting webpage. The commission will finalize the hunting regulations on December 4 at the Capitol in Helena. Registration for attending via Zoom is required by noon on December 3.