Montana FWP Reminds Hunters to Prepare for Block Management Access

As Montana’s hunting season approaches, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is reminding hunters to plan ahead and make the most of the state’s Block Management Program (BMP)—a cornerstone of outdoor access that opens nearly 7 million acres of private, state, and federal lands to public hunting.

The BMP has long been a valued resource for both Montana’s hunting community and the state’s economy. Hunting and outdoor recreation generate billions in economic activity annually. But despite the program’s popularity, FWP staff say many hunters still misunderstand key elements of how block management works.

Not All Big Parcels Are Best

FWP cautions against automatically gravitating toward large tracts of land. In many cases, access to these areas is limited, and hunters may be overlooking productive opportunities on smaller parcels.

Permission Still Required

Hunters must remember that access through block management is not automatic. Montana offers two types of BMAs:

Type 1 BMAs are where hunters can sign in at an on-site box.

Type 2 BMAs, which require contacting the landowner or their representative for permission.

FWP provides contact information, but hunters must take initiative.

Plan Ahead—Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Hunters are encouraged to arrange permission well in advance. Calling the night before or the morning of a hunt can irritate landowners who are busy with harvest and livestock operations. “Respecting their time and planning early goes a long way toward building good relationships,” said Sturtz.

Always Have a Backup Plan

Because some BMAs fill up quickly—especially in areas with high game populations—FWP recommends lining up more than one option. “It’s smart to get a second contact number in case your top choice isn’t available,” said Sturtz.

Courtesy Goes a Long Way

FWP urges hunters to follow basic etiquette:

• Don’t reserve more than one BMA per day.
• Call to cancel if plans change or if a tag is filled.
• Call only during the landowner’s preferred contact hours.
• Be mindful of time zone differences.
• Fire Danger and Weather Awareness

Dry late-summer and early-fall conditions increase fire risk. BMAs in high-risk areas may delay access until conditions improve. Hunters should follow all fire restrictions, avoid driving off-road, and be extremely cautious with open flames.

Hunters can find updated block management maps, landowner contact details, and rules on the FWP website or by visiting local FWP offices.