Hunters, rejoice! The thrill of turkey hunting awaits in the beautiful landscapes of Montana But before you head out with your shotgun and camouflage gear, it’s crucial to understand the turkey hunting seasons and regulations in this state. This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information you need to plan your turkey hunting adventure in Montana.
2023 Turkey Hunting Seasons in Montana:
- Spring Season: April 15th – May 31st
- Fall Season: September 1st – January 1st
2024 Turkey Hunting Seasons in Montana (estimated):
- Spring Season: April 15th – May 31st
- Fall Season: September 1st – January 1st
Bag Limits:
- Spring Season: 1 turkey per license
- Fall Season: 1 turkey per license
License Requirements:
- Upland Game Bird License: Required for all turkey hunters.
- Turkey License: Required for all turkey hunters.
- Hunting License: Required for all hunters 12 years of age and older.
Additional Regulations:
- Youth Licenses: Available for hunters under 16 years of age.
- Special Seasons: Available in certain areas for female or beardless turkeys.
- Check the current regulations: Regulations may change from year to year, so always check the latest regulations before heading out.
Where to Hunt Turkeys in Montana:
Montana boasts a diverse range of habitats suitable for turkey hunting. Popular areas include:
- Long Pines and Ashland areas of the Custer National Forest
- Portions of Fergus County
- Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge
- Other public and private lands where turkey hunting is permitted
Tips for Successful Turkey Hunting:
- Scouting: Locate areas with turkey sign, such as droppings, feathers, and tracks.
- Calling: Use turkey calls to attract turkeys within shooting range.
- Camouflage: Wear camouflage clothing to blend in with your surroundings.
- Patience: Be patient and persistent, as turkeys can be elusive.
- Safety: Always follow safe hunting practices and wear blaze orange during the fall season.
Additional Resources:
- Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) website: https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/regulations/turkey
- eRegulations website: https://www.eregulations.com/montana/hunting/turkey-hunting-seasons
Get Ready for Your Montana Turkey Hunting Adventure!
Now that you have the knowledge in this guide, you are prepared to organize your turkey hunting trip in Montana. Don’t forget to adhere to the most recent laws, get the required permits, and use safe hunting methods. You’ll be well on your way to having a successful and unforgettable turkey hunting experience in Montana’s stunning scenery with a little planning and knowledge.
Happy hunting!
Hunter Education Requirements (MCA 87-2-10
If you were born after Jan. Regardless of whether it is for the rifle or archery season, you must show proof that you have finished a Montana hunter safety and education course or an approved hunter safety course from any other state or province before applying for or purchasing a hunting license. This requirement was put in place on January 1, 1985.
Licensing Youth Hunting Opportunities
If a young person is 12 years of age or older and has a valid hunting license, they may hunt any species of game. Those who will reach12 years of age by Jan. 16, 2024, may hunt any game species, for which their license is valid, after Aug. 15 of the 2023 license year. Proof ofhunter education must be presented at the time of purchase.
An Apprentice Hunter is a certified FWP office-trained resident or nonresident who is at least ten years old. This removes the requirement that the apprentice complete a hunter education course in order to go hunting with a mentor for certain species. The Apprentice Hunter is not allowed to purchase or apply for a license to hunt bighorn sheep, bear, wolf, or mountain lion, or to hunt under a limited quota. TheApprentice Hunter may not purchase an elk license if he/she is under 15 years of age. Other restrictions apply. See our website for details:fwp. mt. gov/hunt/education/ apprentice-hunter.
According to MCA 45-8-344, in order for a minor under the age of 14 to carry or use a firearm for any purpose, they must be accompanied by someone who is responsible for their care or custody, or they must be under the supervision of a certified firearms safety instructor or an adult who is at least 18 years old and has the minor’s parent or guardian’s consent.
– Statute denoted by MCA.
– Commission Rule denoted by CR.
The History of the Wild Turkey in Montana
When is Turkey season in Montana?
The season shall run from April 15 to May 31, 2024. When is Montana’s fall turkey season? The fall season typically begins in September and lasts through January of the following year. The fall turkey season is scheduled to begin on September 1, 2024.
Can you hunt a spring turkey in Montana?
When transporting a spring turkey in the state on 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.
Can you shoot a Turkey in Montana?
Unless there are weapons limitations, wild turkeys may be taken in the fall using a shotgun no bigger than a ten gauge, a long, recurve, compound bow and arrow, or a rifle, pistol, or crossbow. Note: For complete Hunting regulation, you may review it on the Montana FWP website. When is Montana’s spring turkey season?
Where can I buy a Turkey license in Montana?
HELENA – Montana’s spring male turkey season opens April 15. Turkey hunters can purchase a turkey license for a general area at FWP offices, license providers or online. The 2022 turkey regulations are included in the 2022 Upland Game Bird Regulations Booklet. Regulations are available at FWP offices, license providers and online at fwp.mt.gov.