Montana Regulation Changes 2025

Montana FWP reduced the mountain lion harvest quota by 10 percent in 7 hunting districts statewide for the 2025-26 season, based on population modeling that indicated female mountain lion harvest was trending above sustainable levels in those districts. The reductions are concentrated in northwest and southwest Montana districts where lion-prey dynamics with deer and elk are being closely monitored. The changes do not affect districts where lion populations are stable or increasing. Hunters should verify individual district quotas before the season, as some districts may reach their quota and close mid-season.

Montana FWP delayed the paddlefish snagging season opening on the Yellowstone River by five days to May 15 for the 2025 season. The delay is based on updated run timing data showing that paddlefish upriver migration consistently peaks after mid-May in recent years, likely related to shifting spring river temperatures. Opening the season too early has historically resulted in lower catch rates and greater angler crowding before fish arrive. Harvest quotas remain the same: 200 fish combined between the Yellowstone and Missouri River fisheries. The season remains closed once the quota is reached.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks restricted the over-the-counter B-license for mule deer in the HD 500 series hunting districts (eastern Montana) to archery equipment only, beginning with the 2025 season. Mule deer populations in eastern Montana have declined over multiple years due to drought-driven range deterioration and above-average winter severity. The restriction is intended to reduce harvest pressure during the rifle season while still allowing archery hunters to pursue mule deer on public land. General licenses for antlered mule deer on a permit basis are unaffected, and the rifle hunting opportunity for antlered mule deer continues under the drawing system.