Inappropriate behavior by some hunters can overshadow the exemplary behavior of many others. Hunters who hunt legally and responsibly keep Montana’s hunting traditions alive.

The Outstanding Hunter Behavior award program recognizes individuals who through their actions maintain a positive image of hunters and hunting in Montana. The program is cosponsored by the volunteer instructors who teach hunter education as well as FWP.

Specifically, the award program recognizes individuals who demonstrate exemplary or outstanding behavior consistent with the lessons taught in hunter education about safe, ethical, and responsible conduct. A person who receives this award is someone who makes others proud to be a hunter. Examples of recipients include a rancher and hunter who grants free access to youth hunters; a father and son who displayed exemplary behavior during a cow elk hunt; and a hunter who was instrumental in busting a commercial poaching operation.

Following the general big game hunting season, FWP will accept nominations for the regional awards. A few simple rules apply:

• Each of the seven FWP regions gives out one award each.
• The outstanding behavior must involve some aspect of hunting.
• Anyone (instructors, FWP staff, public) may make a nomination.
• Nominations need to be submitted to regional FWP offices by January 31 of each year, see contacts below. A team of instructors and FWP staff will select the regional recipients.
• The award presentation will be made during a luncheon as part of the regional workshops for hunter education instructor in spring.
• FWP will issue regional news release with the names of the recipients as well as an account of their outstanding behavior.
• The hunter education program administers the program and pays for the award plaques and any other incidental expenses such as mileage for recipients to attend the ceremony.