Montana Updates Hunting and Fishing License System

New laws and regulations bring changes for hunters and anglers across the state

Mar. 19, 2026 at 5:01pm

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Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) has announced several significant changes to the state's hunting and fishing license system, including a new 'License Ambassador Program' that allows businesses to sell licenses directly, updated deer and elk regulations, and increased fees for various permits and combo licenses.

Why it matters

These changes aim to modernize Montana's licensing system, protect wildlife populations, and generate more revenue for conservation efforts. The new rules will impact both resident and nonresident hunters and anglers across the state.

The details

The License Ambassador Program shifts license sales to a web-based model, allowing businesses to use their own equipment to sell licenses. This is intended to reduce administrative costs for FWP. Not all previous license vendors are participating, so FWP has provided a tool to find the nearest authorized seller. Cash payments are no longer accepted. Deer regulations have been updated, with many Mule Deer B licenses now only valid on private land, and residents limited to 3 deer licenses total. Elk license quotas have also changed, including a reduction for the high-demand 799-20 Elk License area. Black bear permits are now available in Region 5, and nonresidents face new restrictions on shed antler collection.

  • The 2025 Montana Legislative session passed new hunting and fishing laws.
  • The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted new regulations in 2025.
  • The License Ambassador Program and other changes went into effect in 2026.

The players

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP)

The state agency responsible for managing Montana's wildlife and natural resources.

Christy Clark

The director of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

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What they’re saying

“This change will ultimately provide more businesses where hunters and anglers who like to buy or apply for licenses in person, can go for help.”

— Christy Clark, FWP Director

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These updates to Montana's hunting and fishing license system aim to modernize the process, protect wildlife populations, and generate more revenue for conservation efforts. Hunters and anglers will need to familiarize themselves with the new rules and regulations before heading out in the field.