HELENA – Muzzleloader heritage season opens on Saturday, Dec. 13, and runs through Sunday, Dec. 21. This season is for heritage muzzleloaders only; no other means of taking game, such as archery, is allowed. Note that some areas have elk shoulder seasons through Feb. 15, where firearms and archery equipment may be allowed. 

Hunters should also note that many of Montana’s Block Management Areas (BMAs), even though they are open for upland bird or waterfowl through Jan. 1, do not allow deer or elk hunting during the muzzleloader heritage season. Make sure to check BMA rules before you hunt.  

In addition, although some Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are open year-round, many other WMAs are closed through May 15. If you are planning to hunt on a WMA, see a list of WMAs and their seasonal closure dates here. 

Hunters should check the hunting regulations to make sure they are compliant with all rules and regulations for this season. Hunters should also be aware that trapping seasons are open in several districts. 

To watch a video about the rules of muzzleloader heritage season, click here. 

Keep vigilant with grizzly bear awareness  

Bears are still active in certain areas. All bears are potentially dangerous. Hunters should be prepared to encounter a bear. Here are some tips to keep in mind:  

• Stay alert and look for bear activity, especially where visibility or hearing is limited (woods, bushy areas, streams).  
• Travel in a group and keep members together (especially kids).  
• Make noise whenever possible to avoid surprising a bear, especially where visibility or hearing is limited.  
• Carry bear spray close at hand and know how to use it.  
• Avoid traveling at night, dawn or dusk.  
• Avoid carcass sites and scavenger concentrations.  

For more information on hunting in Montana, visit fwp.mt.gov/hunt.  

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