Proposed Amendments to Montana’s 2026/2027 Hunting Regulations
Overview of Recent Developments
HELENA – The Fish and Wildlife commissioners in Helena have introduced proposed amendments to the upcoming 2026/2027 hunting regulations. These proposals were officially announced last month by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Specific Proposals from Commissioners
Amendment by Commissioner Bill Lane
Commissioner Bill Lane, representing FWP Region 7 in southeast Montana, has proposed the elimination of the 798-20 elk permit. Instead, he recommends increasing the quota for the 799-20 elk license from 280 to 325. This change would ensure the second antlerless elk B license remains accessible to any elk permit holder in hunting districts 702, 704, and 705.
Amendment by Commissioner KC Walsh
Commissioner KC Walsh, representing FWP Region 4 in central Montana, has suggested introducing a limited either-sex archery elk permit. This permit would be valid for hunting districts 411, 412, 417, and 426, with a proposed quota of 1,300 permits. This would increase the availability of elk archery permits across these districts, where limited options currently exist.
Public Engagement and Feedback
Public comments on these proposed regulations are open until November 23, while comments specifically on the amendments will be accepted until November 30. The biennial hunting season setting process by FWP involves formal scoping meetings throughout the state, aiming to gather feedback from hunters, landowners, and the general public. Feedback collected was instrumental in shaping these proposals, which were released for review on October 29.
Future Amendments and Online Availability
Fish and Wildlife Commissioners are encouraged to propose additional amendments, which will be made available for public review and comment online. Interested individuals should regularly check the FWP website for the latest updates and changes.
Upcoming Finalization Meeting
The commission is scheduled to finalize decisions regarding the hunting regulations for the 2026 and 2027 seasons on December 4. The meeting will take place in Helena at the Capitol, Room 317, starting at 8 a.m. Those wishing to attend via Zoom must register online by noon on December 3.
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