Hunting Montana Just Got Pricier for Non-Residents

Bad news for out-of-state hunters: the price for a non-resident hunting license in Montana is possibly jumping up 566%. It's headed to the Governers desk right now and we will know soon if it passes.  

As someone who’s hunted all over the country, I know firsthand how expensive it can get. I’m not rolling in cash, so when it comes to planning a hunt, cost is always a top factor.

But for many non-resident hunters coming to Montana, price doesn’t seem to be a roadblock. Big game hunts—like bison, elk, and sheep—can go for tens of thousands. In fact, back in 2022, a single Montana Governor’s sheep tag was auctioned off through the Wild Sheep Foundation for a jaw-dropping $360,000.

Every year, more than 85,000 non-resident hunters head into Montana’s backcountry hoping to fill a tag. But soon, they’ll also be factoring in a major price hike because of HB0145.03

Until now, out-of-state hunters paid just $15 for a base license. That number is jumping to $100.

Now, while it’s just the base fee and may not break the bank for some, it’s still a big leap. The price increase is expected to bring in an additional $7.2 million, with $6.8 million of that funding Montana’s Block Management Program—a crucial incentive-based system that opens up private land access for public hunting.

This increase could help sway more landowners who’ve been on the fence about joining the program by offering stronger incentives.

That said, not everyone is thrilled. The Montana Outfitters and Guides Association pushed back on the new fee, proposing a compromise closer to $50.

Still, even with the jump, Montana’s base fee remains on the lower end compared to neighboring states. For example, Idaho charges $185, Utah $144, and Oregon $172.

Get our free mobile app

So while it might sting for non-residents, Montana’s new fee is still (relatively) a bargain—especially considering the experience we offer in the great outdoors.