# Montana nonresident hunting and wildlife management

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/montana-nonresident-hunting-and-wildlife-management
> Updated: 2026-09-17T01:04:39.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) has initiated a study to analyze the impact of nonresident hunters on state game populations, including elk, deer, and migratory birds. This investigation follows the passage of the Montana Hunters First Act (House Bill 568), which requires an assessment of how nonresident hunting affects license allocation and population trends across seven regions.

Recent data shows that while nonresident elk license purchases increased between 2016 and 2025, and migratory bird license sales rose by 58%, trends have fluctuated. Additionally, a separate legislative measure has increased nonresident hunting fees by over 500%, a move projected to generate approximately $7 million in annual revenue.

In conjunction with these management efforts, FWP is conducting public information sessions to discuss mule deer population trends and the management of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). An upcoming briefing in Missoula will feature biologists presenting population surveys and long-term trends, alongside updates from wildlife health biologists regarding CWD surveillance. Officials are encouraging hunters to assist in monitoring the disease by submitting harvested animals for testing and are providing guidance on the proper disposal of high-risk animal parts to prevent spread.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to host mule deer and CWD briefing

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host a briefing in Missoula on September 23 regarding mule deer population trends and Chronic Wasting Disease management for the upcoming hunting season.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/montana-fish-wildlife-parks-to-host-mule-deer-and-cwd-briefing

### 2026-09-13: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks studies nonresident hunting impacts

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is studying the impact of nonresident hunting on game populations and license allocation following new legislation, while also hosting public sessions on mule deer and Chronic W

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/montana-fish-wildlife-and-parks-studies-nonresident-hunting-impacts

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Cite as: Montana nonresident hunting and wildlife management. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/montana-nonresident-hunting-and-wildlife-management