HELENA, Mont. – Earlier this month, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission set new hunting regulations for 2026 and 2027, addressing nonresident hunting pressure and mule deer population concerns.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Christy Clark emphasized the significance of these regulations and the public input that shaped them.
Nonresident hunting pressure, particularly in eastern Montana, has been a growing concern. The commission approved an amendment to cap nonresident deer licenses, reducing them by about 2,500.
Mule deer declines have prompted specific changes. In 2026 and 2027, most mule deer B licenses will be valid only on private land, and residents will see a reduction in the number of deer licenses they can hold from eight to three.
Other changes include adjustments in archery regulations, bighorn sheep quotas, black bear hunting, and mountain lion season dates.
