Montana’s draw system, especially for nonresident hunters, is a tricky one and understanding the application process, deadlines, and point systems is crucial to securing your tags. For the absolute, most in-depth look into Montana’s application process signup for GOHUNT’s Insider. Read their strategy articles and be sure to check out the draw odds and more. When signing up, be sure to use promo code RANDY when checking out and receive $50 to their Gear Shop, an annual subscription to Fresh Tracks+ AND our revamped Elk Hunting E-Guide.
Key Deadlines and Details for Hunting in Montana
- Deadline to Apply for Tags: April 1st, 2025. Mark this date on your calendar to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to apply for hunting tags in Montana.
- 2025 Regulations: The full regulations can be found here. It’s essential to review these regulations thoroughly to understand the specific rules for the upcoming season.
- Preference Points: If you miss the draw or don’t want to apply for tags in 2025, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase preference points between July and September 2025.
Changes for 2025
While some changes introduced in 2024 remain in effect, there are a few updates for 2025:
- Doe Tags in Regions 6 & 7: These tags will be restricted to private land only.
- Region 4 Mule Deer Bucks: Some units in Region 4 will now be Limited Entry only for mule deer bucks.
- General Deer Units: Certain general deer units will close earlier than usual, on November 16, 2025. Be sure to check the regulations for specific details.
Costs Associated with Hunting in Montana
Montana’s application fees include upfront costs and additional transaction fees. Here’s a breakdown:
| Preference Point Fee | $100.00 |
| Bonus Point Fee | $20.00 |
| Limited Entry Application Fee | Elk – $9.0o Deer – $5.oo |
| Species | General Tag Fee |
| Big Game Combo Tag | $1,315.50 |
| Elk Combo Tag | $1,115.50 |
| Deer Combo Tag | $781.50 |
Additional, a transaction fees of $0.20 plus 3.0% of the total cost will be charged.
Montana’s Point and Draw Systems: A Complicated Affair
Montana’s point system is notoriously complex, with two distinct systems in place and one reissue cycle:
- General Tag Draw
- Preference point system
- Limited Entry Tag Draw
- Bonus point system
- Reissue Draw
Here’s how it works:
1. General Tag Draw
Applicants will enter into the General Tag Draw, first. The general tags are distributed on a preference point system so he or she with the most points will receive a tag. Applicants can accumulate one point per year, unless signing with an outfitter in which an applicant can purchase two preference points. An applicant can never accumulate more than three preference points.
For the general tag draw, be aware of the “1-point sandwich”. Here’s a few key points on how to avoid the sandwich.
- 75% of Tags: Awarded to the highest point holders, starting from the top and working down.
- 25% of Tags: Awarded to applicants with zero points, starting from the bottom and working up.
- 1-Point Holders: Often find themselves in “No Man’s Land,” with significantly lower odds of drawing a tag compared to those with zero or multiple points.
This system means that having zero points can sometimes give you better odds than having one point—a rarity among state hunting systems.
2. Limited Entry Tag Draw
In order for an applicant to enter the Limited Entry Tag Draw, they must first draw a general tag. Now, the limited entry draw is on a bonus point system so think raffle tickets. Previously accumulated bonus points are squared for the draw plus this year’s bonus point is applied, but not squared. So here’s an example.
10 bonus points squared + this year’s bonus point = 101 bonus points.
3. Reissue Draw Process
Applicants can check a box to reissue their general tag, if they do not draw the limited entry tag that they desired. These tags are then reissued to applicants that did not draw a general tag in the first general tag draw. This process happens all on the same day.
Additional Montana Quirks
Party Applications
- Party Applications: Groups of 2-5 applicants can apply together, with points averaged across the group.
Hunter Education Requirements
- Youth Applicants: Must have passed hunter education and be at least 12 years old by January 16, 2026.
- If you were born after January 1, 1985, you must have passed a certified hunter education course. Older hunters are exempt from this requirement.
Returning Tags
Montana allows you to return your tag for a partial refund. Here’s a breakdown of those prices:
- Before August 1: 80% refund.
- After August 1: 50% refund.
- Once the Season Starts: No refunds are available.
Season Dates, Land Access, and Deer Populations
General Season Dates
Montana is an opportunity state and it provides ample time and seasons to fill your tag. Below are this year’s season dates.
- Archery: September 6 to October 19 (6 weeks).
- Rifle Season: October 25 to November 30 (5 weeks).
- Muzzleloader: December 13-21 (9 days).
For most tags, if you don’t fill your tag in the archery season, you can hunt the rifle season. And if you don’t fill your tag during rifle season, you can come back and hunt the 9 day muzzleloader season.
Public Land and Access Programs
Montana offers ample public land for hunting, but it’s important to note that 65% of the state is private land. To help hunters access private land, Montana has the Block Management Program, which compensates landowners for allowing public hunting. There are two types of Block Management properties:
Type 1 – Walk-In Access: Simply show up and sign in.
Type 2 – Reservation System: Requires advance booking.
Additionally, your hunting license grants access to State Trust Lands.
A Note on Deer Populations
Montana’s deer population is currently at a 20-year low due to severe drought conditions from 2018-2021 and a harsh winter in 2022. Fawn recruitment has significantly declined, with some areas in Eastern Montana experiencing a 50% drop in population. Hunters should adjust their expectations accordingly.
Final Thoughts on Hunting in Montana
Montana remains one of the most complicated and expensive states for non-resident hunters. However, with careful planning and a clear understanding of the regulations, you can navigate the system successfully. Whether you’re applying for General Tags, Limited Entry Tags, or preference points, make sure to stay informed and meet all deadlines.
For an even more in-depth look into Montana’s application process signup for GOHUNT’s Insider. Be sure to use promo code RANDY when checking out and receive $50 to their Gear Shop, an annual subscription to Fresh Tracks+ AND our revamped Elk Hunting E-Guide.
Happy hunting!
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