Application deadline for Montana deer and elk permits looms
April Fools Day is fast approaching, but it will be no joke to Montana hunters who don't get their applications for deer and elk licenses submitted before the the April 1 deadline.
"Hunters have until April 1 to apply for deer and elk licenses, but they shouldn’t wait for the last minute," Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) cautions. "Get it done now."
There are only a handful of days left until the application time runs out, and while specific application deadlines and special permit seasons may be earlier or later than the general dates referenced here, FWP is unambiguous in identifying whose responsibility it is to keep track.
"It is the hunter's responsibility to obtain a copy of the 2023 regulations to verify specific dates and rules," the FWP news release states.
The following are the 2023 dates and reflect the general seasons for most areas.
The 2023 archery season for antelope begins Sept. 2 and runs through Oct. 6. Black bear archery season begins Sept. 2 and runs through Sept. 14. Archery season for deer and elk begins Sept 2 and runs through Oct. 15.
The 2023 rifle season for antelope begins Oct. 7 and runs through Nov. 12. Spring rifle season for Black bear begins April 15 and runs through May 31. Fall Black bear season begins Sept. 15 and runs through Nov. 26; and the deer and elk general rifle season will begin Oct. 21 and run through Nov. 26.
"Hunters who are applying for special licenses and permits need to have a valid email address," the FWP news release states. "Hunters can apply for permits on the FWP website. If hunters want to apply in person, FWP offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday."
"Hunters and anglers can also take advantage of the MyFWP mobile app," the FWP adds. "The app holds and displays licenses, permits and E-Tags, which can be downloaded and used in the field without cell service. Hunters and anglers will need a MyFWP account to use the app, which is a secure and convenient digital profile that stores licenses, permits and related information.
"To create a new account, visit the MyFWP login page. Users need to make sure to link their ALS number to the MyFWP account to ensure their hunting and fishing licenses are attached to their MyFWP account."
Hunters also have the option of printing copies of licenses they purchase online or at FWP offices. If people have more questions, the FWP licensing call center will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 1. After April 1, the hours will return to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The call center can be reached at 406-444-2950.
This article originally appeared on Great Falls Tribune: Application deadline for deer and elk permits looms in Montana
