Montana Spring Turkey Hunting Season Opens April 15

Nonresidents must wait 10 days to hunt public or access program land

Mar. 20, 2026 at 12:00am

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Montana's spring male turkey hunting season will open on April 15. Turkey hunters can purchase a turkey license for a general area at FWP offices, a License Ambassador location, or online. A new regulation requires nonresident hunters on public lands and privately owned lands that are part of a hunting access program to wait 10 days later than residents for all upland game bird species except mountain grouse.

Why it matters

Turkey hunting is a popular spring activity in Montana, and the new 10-day waiting period for nonresident hunters on public and access program lands aims to provide more opportunities for resident hunters. This regulation change is part of Montana's ongoing efforts to manage wildlife populations and hunting access across the state.

The details

When transporting a spring turkey in Montana, hunters must keep one leg and foot naturally attached for evidence of sex. Montana law requires landowner permission for hunting on all private land. All Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program enrollments are currently closed and only open during the fall hunting season. Similarly, most Block Management Areas are also closed, but some open for spring turkey opportunities. No shed hunting, hiking, or other recreational activities are allowed on these properties without landowner permission.

  • Montana's spring male turkey season opens on April 15, 2026.
  • Nonresident hunters on public lands and access program lands must wait 10 days later than residents to hunt upland game birds, except mountain grouse.

The players

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP)

The state agency responsible for managing Montana's wildlife and natural resources, including regulating hunting seasons and access.

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The takeaway

This spring turkey hunting season in Montana will see a new 10-day waiting period for nonresident hunters on public lands and access program properties, aimed at providing more opportunities for resident hunters. Hunters must follow all regulations, including obtaining landowner permission and properly transporting harvested turkeys.