Montana keeps its elk seasons simpler than most western states. There is one statewide archery season, one statewide general (rifle) season, and a short December muzzleloader season, with a handful of backcountry districts and shoulder seasons as exceptions. Here are the 2026 dates.
2026 Montana elk season dates
| Season | 2026 dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Archery | September 5 – October 18 | Requires a bow and arrow license |
| General (any legal weapon) | October 24 – November 29 | Five weeks, statewide in general districts |
| Backcountry districts 150, 280, 316 | Archery September 5–14; general September 15 – November 29 | HD 316 has no archery-only season |
| Muzzleloader | December 12–20 | Where allowed; check district rules |
| Shoulder seasons | Between August 15 and February 15 | Antlerless, mostly private land, dates vary by district |
Some permit districts have their own dates. Check the FWP regulations or Hunt Planner for your district.
What each season is like
Archery (September 5 – October 18)
At six weeks, Montana’s archery season is one of the longest in the West, and it covers the whole rut. Bulls are most vocal from mid to late September. The first week can be hot, so plan for fast meat care. Early October is quieter, but bulls are still with cows and hunting pressure drops after most out-of-state bowhunters go home.
Backcountry general season (from September 15)
In three wilderness-area districts, the general season opens September 15, while the rut is still on. These are big, remote hunts. Most hunters go in on horseback with an outfitter or a drop camp, though nonresidents can hunt there on their own.
General season (October 24 – November 29)
Opening week brings the most hunters and often the most elk taken, as animals that haven’t been pressured are still in open country. Mid-season elk retreat into thick timber, steep north slopes, and private land. The last two weeks are often the best, especially once snow piles up in the high country and pushes elk toward winter range. Weather can be brutal in late November, so bring cold-weather gear.
Muzzleloader (December 12–20)
A short, late season where it is open. Elk are usually on winter range. Check which districts allow it and what elk are legal.
Shoulder seasons
Antlerless seasons outside the main seasons, mostly on private land, meant to bring elk numbers down to objective. Good for meat if you have access.
Permits and B licenses can change your dates
Most general elk hunting follows the statewide dates above. But special elk permits and Elk B licenses can carry their own seasons and restrictions. Some are valid only in part of a district, only on private land, or only during a shoulder season. Before you plan travel, look up your exact permit or license in the FWP regulations or the Hunt Planner and confirm the dates printed for it.
How to pick your season
- Want to hear bugles and call in a bull? Archery, especially mid to late September.
- Want a backcountry rifle hunt during the rut? One of the early backcountry districts, usually with an outfitter or drop camp.
- First elk hunt with a rifle? Opening week of the general season.
- Want snow and elk on the move? The last two weeks of November.
- Want meat? An Elk B license or a shoulder season with private land access.
Key license dates for 2026
- Combination license and elk permit applications: March 1 – April 1
- Results: Mid-April
- Elk B drawing deadline: June 1, results mid-June
- Preference point only: July 1 – December 31
Read our step-by-step guide to the Montana elk draw
Book the right season
Find Montana elk outfitters by season
Most outfitters list which seasons and weapons they guide.
Related: How Montana draw points work · Draw odds by unit · Montana Elk Hunting Guide · General elk license vs. permits · Cost of a Montana elk hunt
Season dates are from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for 2026. Dates can differ by district and permit, so confirm yours in the current FWP regulations.