Deciding Where to Hunt

Your hunt may take you on public or private land.

Public land is land that is owned by the federal, state, or local governments. Generally, the public has access to these lands without the need for special permission. Examples include land managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and state-owned trust lands that generate revenue for public schools and other institutions. Nearly one-third of Montana (30 million acres) is state and federal land that offers free public access opportunities.

Private land is land that is owned by an individual or a business. To access or use private land, you must first ask permission.

Generally, the rules of conduct remain the same for each, but there are certain rules and laws that are specific to each. Know them before you hunt! To find out which rules apply to which areas, get a copy of Montana’s current hunting regulations.

• Study the regulations for any changes or new rules, and be sure you understand the seasons and bag limits for the area and game you are planning to hunt.
• If you need help, call your regional Fish, Wildlife & Parks office.