Key Dates for Montana Hunting Seasons 2024: Don’t Miss Out!

Growing up in an outdoor-loving family has always been great. While most families get excited about football in the fall, my family is packing up the truck for a trip to the field. For anyone who knows me, you can pretty much assume where I will be when I am not at work between Labor Day and Thanksgiving. I WILL BE OUT HUNTING!

You can smell it in the air. The leaves have begun changing color and the cold mornings and cool crips evenings have arrived. Hunting season is something that many outdoorsmen and women daydream about for 9 months a year.

Montana has a long list of Hunting Seasons. Some have already begun.

• Elk "Shoulder Season" is currently underway in parts of Montana and can go on as late as February of 2025 in some districts.
• Antelope "archery only" season is also underway in Montana and will continue until November 10th

ARCHERY and UPLAND BIRD 

Archery (September 7th- October 20th)

Upland Game Bird - Grouse and Turkey (September 1st - January 1, 2025)

As an avid archery hunter, this is my favorite time of year. The thrill of getting in close to make that perfect shot. Or flushing a bird and getting the bead in the perfect spot for a shot.

MIGRATORY BIRD (Duck and Goose season)

Duck and Goose September 28th

Both Pacific and Central Flyways open on September 28th this year. But, the closing dates change depending on where you are. So make sure to check your regulations here.

PRONGHORN ANTELOPE

September 7th- November 10th

For those lucky enough to draw an antelope tag, you can Archery hunt them now and then rifle hunting takes over on October 12th until November 10th.

GENERAL RIFLE SEASON

October 26th - December 1st

The most wonderful time of the year. Typically general season arrives in late October and goes through the Thanksgiving holiday. This year's opening day falls on Saturday, October 26,th and will close the Sunday following your Thanksgiving meal.

MUZZLELOADER SEASON

December 14th - December 22nd

Muzzleloader season is fairly new to Montana. Even though traditional weapons have been used since the state was born. This short season lasts only from December 14th through the 22nd. Allowing a short extended season for those willing to use traditional weapons to take down game.

Granted there are far more season hunting season dates to consider if you are looking to harvest bear, bison, sheep, etc. Check out the Montana FWP website for all other information and regulations.