New Hunting Regulations For Montana's Turkey Season Explained

Montana’s spring male turkey hunting season opens April 15, according to Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks.

Hunters can purchase a turkey license for a general hunting area through regional FWP offices, participating License Ambassador businesses or through the agency’s online licensing system. Officials say hunters should review regulations carefully before heading into the field this spring.

One new rule will affect nonresident hunters. Under legislation passed by the Montana Legislature, nonresidents hunting upland game birds on public lands or private lands enrolled in state hunting access programs must wait 10 days longer than residents before their season opens. The rule applies to all upland game bird species except mountain grouse.

FWP also reminds hunters of transport requirements for harvested birds. When transporting a spring turkey within Montana, hunters must keep one leg and foot naturally attached to the bird to provide evidence of sex.

State law also requires hunters to obtain permission from landowners before hunting on any private property.

Some public access programs remain closed during the spring. Officials say all Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program enrollments are currently closed and will not reopen until the fall hunting season. Most properties in the Montana Block Management Program are also closed, though some may open for spring turkey hunting.