Hunter and Bowhunter Education Courses Offered Across North-Central Montana

In-person classes and field days provide hands-on learning for new hunters and bowhunters

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Hunter and bowhunter education courses, including both classroom sessions and field days, will be offered at locations across north-central Montana this spring. These free courses are taught by volunteer instructors and provide essential training and mentorship opportunities for new hunters and bowhunters in the region.

Why it matters

Completing hunter and bowhunter education is required for anyone born after January 1, 1985 to purchase a hunting license in Montana. These courses help ensure new hunters and bowhunters develop the necessary skills and knowledge to participate safely and responsibly in Montana's outdoor recreation activities.

The details

The classroom courses cover topics like firearm handling, wildlife identification, regulations, and more. The field days allow students to put their skills to the test with hands-on practice. Students aged 12-17 can take the courses online, but must also pass an in-person field day to become certified. While the classroom sessions are free, there is a fee for the online course component.

  • The hunter education classroom courses will be held on March 9 in Choteau, March 11 in Great Falls, March 16 in Fairfield and Belt, March 23 in Valier, and March 30 in Lewistown.
  • The hunter education field days for online students will take place on February 21, March 7, March 21, March 25, and April 13 in Great Falls.
  • The bowhunter education classroom course will be held on March 6 in Winnett and March 9 in Choteau.
  • The bowhunter education field day for online students will be on February 21 and March 28 in Fairfield.

The players

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

The state agency responsible for managing Montana's fish and wildlife resources, including offering hunter and bowhunter education courses across the state.

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What’s next

Students must register prior to attending the classroom courses or field days. To find a class and register, as well as learn more information, they can visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.

The takeaway

These hunter and bowhunter education opportunities provide essential training for new hunters and bowhunters in north-central Montana, helping them develop the skills and knowledge needed to participate safely and responsibly in the state's outdoor recreation activities.