Initial entry order numbers were determined and sent out by email on 4/24/24. This is for everyone that registered by 4/19. Please check your email (be sure to check your Spam/Junk folder too) and send in your RSVP by 5/3. If you did not receive an email with your number, please email: vcrowser@mt.gov or call 406-542-5518.
A new plan in the interest of human safety
Western Montana’s Blackfoot-Clearwater Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a popular destination for antler hunters when it opens for the season annually at noon on May 15. This year, due to human safety concerns with the growing congestion and pedestrian traffic along Highway 83, opening day antler hunters will need to access the area following a different process.
Background info
Stay updated
Public meeting
Thanks to all that participated in the public meeting on February 15 to share your ideas and provide input. View the meeting recording
Using input that we heard at the public meeting, we refined the access plan that antler hunters will use for the 2024 opener.
No limits, but be sure to register
Instead of staging vehicles along Hwy 83, as done in past years, those planning to access the WMA by vehicle were able register here beginning Monday, April 1 (noon) through Friday, April 19 (midnight), 2024. There will be no limit to the number of vehicles that can access the WMA on opening day. Instead, the order of entry will be randomized through a drawing of those that registered by April 19.
If you missed the registration
Now that the initial registration has closed, you can add your name to a second list to be placed in chronological order behind those that have already registered. Please do not add your name to this list if you already registered prior to April 19.
Only one registration is needed per vehicle. Any number of additional people may be riding along in your vehicle and do not need to register separately.
All vehicle entry between noon and 2 p.m. will be through the east entrance to the WMA, located off Woodworth Rd. and away from the busier Hwy 83. Specific instructions on entry order and where to go will be sent to registrants around the first week of May
Walk-in, horse and later vehicle entry
As in years past, walk-in access to the WMA is allowed from anywhere starting at noon on May 15. Walk-in and horse access is available from designated parking areas on the west side of the WMA, off Hwy 83, beginning at noon, with no registration required. Beginning at 2 p.m., the west entrance of the WMA will also open to vehicles with no registration required.
Continued refinement
2024 opening day will be a test run of a new process; we will be looking for feedback from antler hunters and others that will refine the plan before the 2025 opener. Extra staff with be on the WMA on opening day this year to assist visitors and gather feedback.
What if I miss the deadline?
Those that miss the April 19 registration deadline will need to sign up on a second list (sign up for late registrants will be available on this page after April 19). Those registering after April 19 will be placed in chronological order behind pre-registrants. Those that arrive on opening day without registering at all will still be allowed to enter. Those vehicles will stage at the east entrance behind all other registered vehicles.
Continued refinement
2024 opening day will be a test run of a new process; we will be looking for feedback from antler hunters and others that will refine the plan before the 2025 opener. Extra staff with be on the WMA on opening day this year to assist visitors and gather feedback.
Anyone 12 and older will need to have a conservation license to enter the WMA. If you have a hunting or fishing license, you already automatically have your conservation license, and if not, you can buy online, at an FWP or at any license provider.
Here are a few nearby campground locations for those hoping to stay overnight in the area. All locations are first-come, first-served at this time of year.
State Parks:
Salmon Lake State Park (23 campsites)
Placid Lake State Park (40 campsites)
Fishing Access Sites:
Harper’s Lake (14 campsites)
Clearwater Crossing (6 campsites)
Russell Gates (11 campsites)
Forest Service Campground:
Big Larch (48 campsites)
For more information, contact:
Vivaca Crowser
FWP regional communication and education manager
406-542-5518
vcrowser@mt.gov